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Semi-Truck Accident Lawyer in Lafayette

The Lawyer on the Truck

Located in the heart of Louisiana, Lafayette is a dynamic city boasting a thriving economy and a bustling transportation sector. Serving as a central hub for commerce and trade, Lafayette plays a pivotal role in the state’s trucking industry, facilitating the seamless movement of goods and cargo both within the region and beyond its borders. 

Undoubtedly, the trucking industry serves as a vital pillar of our economy; however, it also presents inherent risks, and tragically, truck accidents can happen, leading to life-altering consequences. Contact our Lafayette truck accident lawyers today for a free consultation.

If you or a loved one have experienced the unfortunate aftermath of a Lafayette truck crash, seeking the guidance of an experienced Lafayette truck accident lawyer is essential to navigate the complexities of the legal system and secure the justice and compensation you deserve. With a deep understanding of Lafayette’s trucking laws and a commitment to advocating for your rights, our team of dedicated Lafayette truck accident attorneys is here to provide unwavering support and expert representation in your time of need.

Click to contact our Truck Accident Lawyers in Lafayette Today

Common Causes of 18 Wheeler Accidents in Lafayette

While a motor vehicle accident can be caused by a nearly limitless amount of factors, there are some unique causes that are common to semi-truck crashes. While some accidents happen because of well-known causes like driving under the influence or texting while driving, many truck crashes can be attributed to the following:

Lafayette Truck Accidents Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit after a truck accident in Lafayette is typically one year from the date of the incident

This means that an injured person has one year to file a truck accident injury claim against the at-fault party or their insurance company. The same applies to wrongful death claims, which are made on behalf of the deceased’s family by their survivors.

Our Lafayette Truck Accident Attorney Proven Results

delivery truck in loading bay

At our law firm, we take pride in our 200+ Personal Injury Million+ verdicts and settlements. With a proven history of securing significant verdicts and settlements in personal injury cases $3 Billion, our team’s dedication and legal experience ensure that you receive the skilled representation you deserve. 

Rest assured, your case is backed by our unwavering commitment to delivering results, as indicated by our impressive $3 Billion. Even better, when you work with us, you benefit from the knowledge and insight gained from over 679+ years of combined legal experience.

Furthermore, our G Guaranteeshows our confidence in our ability to advocate for your rights and achieve the best possible outcomes. Your success is our priority, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.

How a Lafayette Semi Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help

The consequences of a semi-truck accident can be devastating due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. The unfortunate effects of these accidents are often life-altering and catastrophic injuries. If you or someone you know has been injured in a semi-truck accident, it is important to seek out the help of an experienced Lafayette truck accident lawyer.

A skilled Lafayette Semi truck accident lawyer will be able to help you navigate the complex legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages. They will provide you with knowledgeable, experienced legal representation that is tailored to your specific needs. They will provide guidance every step of the way, including

  • investigating the cause of the accident
  • gathering evidence
  • negotiating with insurance companies
  • filing paperwork

With help from a Lafayette big truck accident attorney, you can get the maximum compensation you deserve for your losses.

Lafayette Trucking Laws and Regulations: Navigating Complex Legal Terrain

Before any Lafayette truck drivers can take off on the open road, they must hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to operate commercial vehicles. Additionally, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) places a crucial responsibility on trucking companies to maintain constant proof of liability insurance. 

18 wheeler driving on highway

This documentation serves as a shield to have on hand whenever federal safety inspectors arrive for their inspections, ensuring compliance with regulations and upholding safety standards.

  • A driver must have a continuous 10-hour “off duty” period before initiating a shift
  • Following a 10-hour “off duty” interval, a driver can be “on duty” for a maximum of 14 consecutive hours
  • A maximum of 11 consecutive hours can be spent driving at a stretch
  • After 8 consecutive hours of driving, a mandatory 30-minute break is required
  • A limit of 60 “on duty” hours over 7 days, or no more than 70 hours over 8 days, with an option to reset after a 34-hour “off duty” period

Important Note: These regulations pertain to trucks and truckers engaged in interstate commerce. If your cargo remains within Louisiana, the rules may differ slightly.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LaDOTD) imposes limitations on the dimensions and weights of commercial vehicles. These parameters include a maximum weight of 20,000 pounds for a single axle and 34,000 pounds for a tandem axle. Additionally, height, length, and width restrictions are in place for commercial trucks, aimed at preventing risks to other road users and vital infrastructure such as bridges and tunnels.

These state-level regulations complement federal guidelines established by the FMCSA, collectively striving to ensure the optimal condition of commercial vehicles and shield the public from potential perils linked to commercial vehicle accidents.

Investigating Trucking Companies and Drivers: Uncovering Liability in Accidents

When a trucking accident occurs, determining who is at fault can be complicated. Depending on the situation, multiple parties may share responsibility for any resulting damages and injuries. Investigating trucking companies and drivers can help to uncover liability when an accident happens.

The first step in investigating trucking companies and drivers following an accident is to look at the legal requirements for operating commercial vehicles and hiring qualified drivers. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Making sure that the driver has a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) and is properly trained and certified for the type of cargo being transported
  • Ensuring that trucks are properly maintained and inspected before each trip, as well as throughout the year
  • Verifying that drivers have adequate insurance coverage for the cargo being transported
  • Ensuring that vehicles are not overloaded or carrying hazardous materials without proper safety measures in place.

In addition to these requirements, it is also important to look into the company’s safety record and any violations they have had in the past. This can help to determine if they are following all applicable laws and regulations.

What To Do After a Lafayette Truck Wreck

While we hope it never happens, we have put together some tips for what to do after you’ve been involved in a big truck accident. First, get yourself and anyone with you somewhere safe, away from the vehicle and away from the flow of traffic. Once you’re relatively safe from further harm, take the following steps:

Truck drives on a highway
  1. Call 911.  The police will not only provide assistance but should document the scene and take statements as well.  Emergency Medical Services will assist with any injuries.
  2. Contact a Lafayette truck wreck lawyer at Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys immediately at 337.329.8782 for a free consultation, or fill out our easy-to-use online form to see if your case qualifies.

Let a Lafayette truck crash attorney get to work, finding the evidence and making the strongest case we can to help you win and get the compensation you deserve!

Potential Compensation From Lafayette Truck Accidents

Final compensation from a tractor-trailer accident can vary widely, from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars. Many factors need to be taken into consideration when deciding what’s fair, so it’s always best to talk to a knowledgeable and experienced Lafayette 18-wheeler accident lawyer to figure out your total damages, including, but not limited to, repair costs, medical bills, lost wages, and lawyer fees.

The experienced Lafayette tractor-trailer accident attorneys are well acquainted with Louisiana law and have worked closely with the courts and the people who work there. We know the best way to win your case, and to get you the compensation you deserve.

Contact Our Lafayette Truck Accident Lawyers Today

The Lafayette Lawyer on the Truck, Gordon McKernan

If you or someone you love has been injured in an 18-Wheeler accident near Lafayette, give our Lafayette truck accident law firm a call today at 337.999.9999. We’re dedicated to helping you heal after such a life-changing accident, and that’s why we won’t charge you a dime until we either win or settle your case; that’s the G Guarantee.

Lafayette Truck Accident Lawyer Near Me

888.271.3687

How It Works

Filing a claim with Gordon Mckernan Injury Attorneys is easy! Simply follow the steps below.

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Get Your Free Consultation

Fill out our quick and easy form to find out if your case qualifies. Our consultations are free and confidential, and we are here to help whether you hire us or not! 
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2

An Attorney Will Reach Out

Our team will evaluate your case and decide on the best course of action. One of our lawyers will get back to you promptly and begin the process of winning your case! 
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3

Get Gordon! Get It Done!

Once your case has been evaluated and deemed a good fit for our firm, our team will go to work immediately on gathering evidence, building your case, and getting you the compensation that you deserve. 
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Frequent Answered Questions

Can You Get Compensation If An Accident Was Your Fault?

How Are Truck Accidents Different From Car Accidents?

How Can a Big Truck Accident Attorney in Lafayette Help?

How Do Truck Accident Lawsuits Work?

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How Long Do I Have to File an Insurance Claim or Lawsuit for My Truck Accident?

How Many Hours Can a Truck Driver Drive?

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How to Get Compensation After a Commercial Trucking Accident?

I Have Piles of Medical Bills From My Louisiana Truck Accident Injuries That I Can’t Pay. What Can I Do?

Should I Hire a Big Truck Accident Attorney?

What are Some of the Causes of Big Truck Accidents?

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What Does a Truck Accident Lawyer Do?

What Happens When a Truck Driver has an Accident?

What Is The Average Settlement For A Semi-Truck Accident?

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What Should I Do if I’ve Been Involved in a Louisiana Truck Accident?

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Who is Liable for My Truck Accident in Louisiana?

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