Why Hire A Big Truck Accident Lawyer in Baton Rouge To Represent You

Despite the existence of numerous safety regulations, large truck accidents still occur. In fact, in the year 2021 alone, there were 5,700 fatal crashes involving these vehicles, representing an 18% increase from the previous year and a 49% increase over the past decade.

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Baton Rouge, it’s crucial to hire a big truck accident lawyer. Truck accident claims can be complex and navigating the legal process without the right legal help can be overwhelming.

Reasons to Hire a Big Truck Accident Lawyer in Baton Rouge

One of the main reasons to hire a lawyer is that there can be multiple liable parties in truck accident cases. This includes not only the truck driver but also the trucking company, insurance providers, and even the manufacturers of faulty truck components. An experienced lawyer will have the knowledge and resources to investigate the accident thoroughly and determine all responsible parties.

Furthermore, a lawyer can provide you with the necessary legal representation and support throughout the entire process. From gathering evidence at the accident scene, interviewing witnesses, working with accident reconstruction experts, and negotiating with insurance adjusters, they will fight for your rights and ensure that you receive the financial compensation you deserve.

Common Injuries That Can Result from Truck Accidents & What to Do

Big truck accidents can have devastating consequences, resulting in a range of injuries that can have long-lasting effects on victims’ lives. Due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks, accidents involving these vehicles often lead to severe injuries.

Below you can find out about some common truck accident injuries and how to go about handling them.

Physical Injuries

Being involved in a big truck accident can result in a variety of physical injuries, some of which may initially seem minor but can have long-lasting consequences if not treated properly. Even common injuries like bruises and broken bones can lead to persistent discomfort and a decrease in quality of life.

Beyond these more common injuries, big truck accidents can also cause more severe and life-altering physical trauma. Brain damage, for instance, can occur due to the impact of the accident, resulting in cognitive impairments and changes in behavior. Paralysis is another devastating outcome, where the spinal cord is injured or severed, leading to a loss of sensation and mobility.

Seeking immediate medical care after a big truck accident is crucial. Even seemingly minor injuries should be evaluated by a medical professional to ensure proper treatment and prevent potential long-term effects. Untreated injuries can worsen over time and lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and other complications that negatively impact daily life.

Emotional and Mental Trauma

Experiencing a big truck accident can result in not only physical injuries and property damage but also significant emotional and mental trauma. The psychological impact of such an event can be profound and long-lasting for the victims involved.

The emotional trauma stemming from a big truck accident can manifest in various ways. Many victims may experience frequent anxiety and panic attacks, struggling with recurring thoughts or nightmares about the accident. They may also develop symptoms of depression, such as a loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed, feelings of hopelessness, and difficulty maintaining relationships. Additionally, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common consequence, characterized by intrusive memories, flashbacks, and intense emotional distress triggered by reminders of the accident.

Recognizing the signs of emotional and mental trauma is crucial for the well-being of truck accident victims. Symptoms may include persistent fear or feeling on edge, irritability, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, and social withdrawal. It is important for individuals who have been through a big truck accident to seek professional help, as these psychological effects can greatly impact their quality of life and overall well-being.

When seeking legal representation after a big truck accident, it’s equally important to choose a big truck accident lawyer in Baton Rouge who understands and values the emotional and mental trauma endured by the victims. An experienced lawyer will not only fight for fair compensation for their clients’ physical injuries and property damages but will also support them in addressing the psychological toll of the accident. By working with a compassionate attorney, victims can get the help they need to rebuild their lives and recover from the emotional and mental trauma caused by a big truck accident.

Financial Losses

When involved in a big truck accident in Baton Rouge, the financial losses can be overwhelming. From hefty medical bills to property damage expenses, the aftermath of such accidents can leave victims in dire financial straits. Hiring a skilled lawyer in Baton Rouge can help ensure you receive the compensation you need and deserve to cover these losses.

By hiring an experienced lawyer, you can navigate the complex legal process and hold the liable parties accountable for their actions. These professionals can negotiate with insurance providers and challenge insurance adjusters’ offers to ensure you receive fair compensation for your financial losses, including medical bills, property damage expenses, lost wages, and other relevant costs. Don’t let the financial consequences of a big truck accident jeopardize your future. Seek legal representation to secure the compensation you deserve.

Statute of Limitations for Filing a Claim After a Big Truck Accident in Baton Rouge

If you have been involved in a big truck accident in Baton Rouge, it’s crucial to understand the Statute of Limitations for filing a legal claim for compensation.

• In 2024, Louisiana law extended the statute of limitations for personal injury claims occurring on or after July 1, 2024, from one year to two years. Any injuries that occurred before July 1, 2024, will still have a 1-year statute of limitation. Learn more about Louisiana’s New Statute of Limitations here.

This means that if you do not take legal action within this timeframe, you may lose your right to seek financial compensation for your injuries, medical bills, property damages, and the impact the accident has had on your quality of life.

Attempting to handle the claim on your own may lead to complications and potential mistakes that could jeopardize your case. Insurance companies and trucking companies often have teams of lawyers and adjusters working to minimize their liability and payout. By hiring a skilled truck lawyer, you level the playing field and increase your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve.

Common Defenses Used by Insurance Companies After a Big Truck Accident in Baton Rouge

After a big truck accident in Baton Rouge, it’s vital to hire an experienced lawyer. Insurance companies often use tactics to pay you less. They might downplay your injuries, saying they’re not as bad as you claim. They could even delay settling your claim, hoping you’ll accept less because you need money quickly.

Insurance companies care most about saving money. They have skilled teams to protect their interests. So, having a Baton Rouge accident lawyer is crucial. They’ll fight for your rights and fair compensation.

Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of you after a truck accident. With a skilled lawyer, you’ll have someone who’s on your side and will stand up for your rights.

Who Is Liable for Big Truck Accidents?

When it comes to big truck accidents, determining liability can be complex. There are several parties who could be held responsible for these accidents, including truck drivers, trucking companies, and even the manufacturers of the vehicles involved. Continue reading along for more information.

The Driver of the Big Truck

Truck accidents often stem from the actions of big truck drivers. Negligent behaviors like speeding, driving while fatigued, or being distracted contribute significantly to these incidents.

Truck drivers have a responsibility to follow traffic laws and drive safely, just like any other road user. However, their demanding schedules and long hours driving can lead to mistakes and risky behavior.

Speeding, a common cause of truck accidents, is challenging due to the truck’s size and weight. Slowing down quickly is tough, leading to severe collisions. Fatigue is another issue, impairing a driver’s reactions and decisions.

Truck drivers must also ensure proper maintenance and cargo loading. Neglecting these duties can result in equipment failures or unsecured loads, endangering everyone on the road.

The Owner of the Big Truck

Truck accidents in Baton Rouge involve the crucial responsibility and liability of the big truck’s owner. Proper maintenance and secure cargo loading are paramount to avoid accidents leading to severe injuries or fatalities.

Truck owners must:

• Maintain Vehicle: Regular maintenance, inspections, and repairs are essential to prevent mechanical failures causing accidents.
  
• Secure Cargo: Proper loading prevents cargo shifts that could make the truck unstable and raise accident risks.
  

Trucking companies must follow Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations, including:

• Liability Insurance: Ensures victims receive compensation for injuries and damages.
  
• Weight Limits: Prevents accidents by avoiding overloading.
  

Truck drivers must hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and undergo specialized training, though accidents can still occur due to driver errors like fatigue, distraction, or impairment.

The Manufacturer or Shipper of Goods on the Truck

In big truck accidents, getting the compensation you deserve means considering all responsible parties. While truck drivers and companies are commonly targeted, don’t overlook the manufacturer or shipper. A Baton Rouge accident lawyer can help navigate these complexities, holding all accountable parties responsible.

Manufacturer Liability: Defective truck parts can cause accidents, like faulty brakes or steering. A lawyer will investigate for manufacturing defects that contributed.

Shipper Responsibility: Cargo problems from improper loading can be dangerous. Shifting cargo can lead to loss of control and severe accidents.

To establish liability, your lawyer examines the records of all involved: truck driver, company, manufacturer, and shipper. This thorough review determines fault, securing fair compensation for injuries, bills, damages, and quality of life impact.

Other Parties Involved in the Crash

Truck accidents in Baton Rouge often have more than one responsible party. While the driver and truck owner seem obvious, liability can extend further. The manufacturer or goods shipper can also be held responsible.

Apart from the driver and owner, other parties might be involved. If a defective part caused the accident, the truck maker could be liable. Similarly, if the cargo was unsafe or improperly secured, the shipper might share blame.

The Benefits of Hiring an Experienced Big Truck Lawyer in Baton Rouge

When dealing with big truck accidents in Baton Rouge, having an experienced lawyer by your side is vital. These cases involve intricate complexities, from identifying responsible parties to proving the injury extent. Enlisting an expert big truck accident lawyer ensures your case is handled with utmost precision.

Here’s why hiring a skilled lawyer matters:

• Navigating Complexities: Lawyers possess vast experience in similar cases, enabling them to pinpoint all liable parties. This is critical for obtaining compensation for medical expenses, property damage, and quality of life loss.
  
• Protecting Your Rights: Legal representation safeguards your rights throughout the process. Your lawyer handles interactions with insurers, trucking companies, and involved parties. They leave no stone unturned, investigating the scene, gathering evidence, and building a robust case on your behalf.
  
• Time Frame Mastery: Seasoned truck lawyers grasp statute of limitations intricacies, ensuring timely claim filing. They adeptly negotiate with insurers, advocating for equitable compensation for your injuries and losses.
  

Get The Best Big Truck Lawyer in Baton Rouge for Your Case

At Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys, we have 679+ years of combined legal experience , so you can trust that we have your back. These types of investigations are crucial to your truck accident injury case and could mean the difference between a successful outcome and ending up with a result that doesn’t cover your losses and costs. 

With 200+ Personal Injury Million+ verdicts and settlements, Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys is among the region’s top truck accident law firms. So, when you’re up against the trucking company’s powerful legal and insurance teams, you need a skilled big truck lawyer in Baton Rouge.

Call us today for a FREE consultation. On top of that, we offer our G Guarantee , which means we don’t get paid unless we win your case! It’s time to Get Gordon and Get it Done!