At Shipman & Wright, our Greensboro truck accident attorneys are dedicated to providing strong legal representation to victims of such devastating incidents. We understand the complexities involved in truck accident claims, including federal and state regulations, and know how to deal with large trucking companies and their insurers. Our team is committed to advocating tirelessly on your behalf so that you receive the full compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. Reach out to Shipman & Wright today to find out how our Greensboro personal injury lawyers can help you achieve a favorable outcome in your truck accident claim. Contact us today for your free consultation.
Trust Shipman & Wright with Your Greensboro Truck Accident Case
Trusting Shipman & Wright to handle your Greensboro truck accident case means partnering with a firm that puts you first. Here’s why our firm is the right choice for your truck accident claim:
- Working Knowledge of the Trucking Industry: Shipman & Wright attorneys understand the role that regulations play in the truck industry. Our team stays on top of all changes in trucking laws and uses this knowledge to build strong cases for our clients.
- Proven Track Record: Our firm has a proven history of securing favorable outcomes for our clients in truck accident cases. From negotiating substantial settlements to winning verdicts in court, we let our success speak for itself for our clients.
- Strategic Approach to Litigation: We approach each case with a strategic mindset, understanding that truck accident claims often involve confronting large trucking companies and their insurers. This includes using arbitration and meditation to our advantage.
- No Fee Unless We Win: Shipman & Wright operates on a contingency fee basis. This means you will not owe us anything unless we win your case, providing you peace of mind and removing any barriers to accessing top-tier legal representation.
Why Legal Counsel is Essential for Your Greensboro Truck Accident Claim
Securing effective legal counsel is essential when dealing with a truck accident claim. Here are several ways in which our experienced legal representation will assist you:
- Accurately Assessing and Valuing Damages: Determining the full extent of damages after a truck accident requires experience, especially since these accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities. Our lawyers will ensure that all potential damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any long-term care needs, are accurately calculated and pursued.
- Handling Complicated Evidence: Truck accident cases involve a multitude of evidential materials such as logbooks, GPS data, electronic control modules (the truck’s “black box”), and maintenance records. We are skilled in obtaining, preserving, and interpreting this evidence, which is crucial for supporting your claim.
- Ensuring Timely Filing: Truck accident claims are subject to statutes of limitations, which require that claims be filed within a specific timeframe. Our Greensboro truck accident attorneys will make sure that all necessary actions — from filing claims to submitting paperwork — are completed on time, preventing any procedural dismissals of your case.
- Mitigating Contributory Negligence Claims: North Carolina’s contributory negligence law can be particularly harsh on plaintiffs. If the defense proves that you were even slightly at fault, you could lose your right to compensation. Our Greensboro truck accident lawyers strategically make sure you are not subject to these claims by demonstrating that you were not at fault.
Determination of Liability in Greensboro Truck Accident Claims
Determining liability in Greensboro truck accident claims involves determining which party is responsible for the accident and strategizing the best party for assessing liability. Some factors to consider include:
- Driver Error: The behavior of the truck driver at the time of the accident is scrutinized for negligence. This could include speeding, distracted driving, impairment due to alcohol or drugs, or failing to adhere to traffic signals. If the truck driver is found to have violated any traffic laws or driving regulations, they can be held primarily liable for the accident.
- Trucking Company Responsibility: Trucking companies can be held liable under the legal principle of “respondeat superior” (also known as vicarious liability) if the accident occurred while the truck driver was performing work-related duties. Additionally, trucking companies are responsible for ensuring proper training, adherence to trucking regulations, and regular vehicle maintenance. Failure in any of these areas can lead to the company being held liable.
- Vehicle Maintenance: Faulty vehicle parts or improper maintenance can also lead to accidents. Liability may fall on the trucking company for not maintaining the truck or on a third party if the failure was due to improper repairs or defective parts from manufacturers.
- Cargo Loaders: Improperly loaded or secured cargo can cause or contribute to truck accidents. If cargo shifting is found to be a factor in the accident, the cargo loading team or company may be held liable.
- Other Motorists: In multi-vehicle accidents, the actions of other drivers will also be considered. Similar to truck drivers, if another motorist’s negligence contributed to the accident, they could also be held partially or fully liable. This is where the expertise of a Greensboro car accident attorney can come into play.
Contributory Negligence in Greensboro Truck Accident Claims
In Greensboro, the doctrine of contributory negligence plays a significant role in truck accident claims. This rule is more strict compared to the systems found in other states. Contributory negligence is a legal defense that a defense might try to use. Under this doctrine, if the victim is found to have contributed to the truck accident in any way, even minimally, they can be completely barred from receiving any compensation for their losses. This rule applies no matter how negligent the other party was.
For example, suppose a car driver is speeding while a truck driver fails to check their blind spot during a lane merge, leading to a collision. Under North Carolina’s contributory negligence law, if it is established in court that the car driver’s speeding—even slightly—contributed to the accident, this fault would bar the car driver from recovering any damages. This outcome demonstrates the harshness of contributory negligence in North Carolina which can entirely prevent a plaintiff from receiving compensation.
There are various ways our truck accident attorneys in Greensboro combat this defense:
- Gather Comprehensive Evidence: This includes obtaining accident reports, witness statements, and camera footage, and constructing a clear narrative that the plaintiff was not at fault.
- Focus on Safety Compliance: Demonstrating that the plaintiff was adhering to all safety regulations and traffic laws at the time of the accident can help counteract claims of contributory negligence.
- Utilize Expert Witnesses: Experts in accident reconstruction or trucking regulations can provide authoritative testimony that strengthens the plaintiff’s position and challenges any assertions of their contributory fault.
Contact Our Greensboro Truck Accident Lawyers Today
If you or someone you know has been involved in a truck accident, our Greensboro truck accident lawyers at Shipman & Wright are here to help you handle your claim. We understand the devastating impact a truck accident can have and are committed to securing the maximum compensation you deserve. Our skilled team of attorneys will review the details of your accident, explain your legal options, and outline the best steps forward. Let our experienced team handle the legal burdens so you can focus on your recovery. Call us now to ensure your rights are protected and to begin your journey toward a fair resolution. Call Shipman & Wright today for a free consultation to discuss your case.