Las Cruces Truck Accident Lawyers
Truck accidents are among the most severe types of road collisions due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. The aftermath can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with significant injuries, property damage, and legal concerns. When faced with these challenges, having knowledgeable legal representation is essential for protecting your rights. The Las Cruces truck accident lawyers at Flores Mendez Law have experience handling these types of cases, offering guidance to those affected by truck crashes.
What Should I Do After a Truck Accident?
Your safety and health are the top priorities if you are involved in a truck accident. Immediately after the collision, check for injuries and seek medical attention as needed. Ask the responding officers about getting an official police report, as this documentation may become a critical part of your case later on. If possible, gather evidence at the scene, like photographs of the accident, contact information from witnesses, and details of the truck driver’s company and insurance.
Following the accident, you will likely need to notify your insurance provider to let them know what happened. However, consulting with a lawyer can help you protect your rights before making any statements or accepting any settlements. Truck accident cases can be complex, involving multiple parties.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident?
Liability in a truck accident is not always straightforward. While the truck driver may bear responsibility for their role, other parties could also be held accountable. For instance, the trucking company may be liable if it:
- Failed to properly maintain the vehicle.
- Employed a driver who was not qualified to operate a commercial vehicle.
- Pushed drivers to exceed legal working hours, which can contribute to fatigue-related accidents.
- Additionally, if a defective part contributed to the accident, the manufacturer of that part could be held responsible.
Each truck accident is different, so determining responsibility requires a thorough investigation. Evidence like maintenance records, the truck’s black box data, and logbooks detailing the driver’s hours of service can help prove negligence. A truck accident lawyer can analyze this evidence to identify all parties that could be held accountable, potentially increasing your available compensation.
How Are Truck Accidents Different from Car Accidents?
Truck accidents differ from car accidents in several significant ways. First, the size and weight of commercial trucks mean that the damage and injuries caused by a truck accident are often far more severe than those from typical car collisions. The legal regulations governing the trucking industry also complicate truck accident cases. Federal laws, such as the hours-of-service rules, dictate how long truck drivers can be on the road before taking breaks, and violations of these laws can be a factor in proving negligence.
In addition, truck accidents often involve more than just the driver and their insurance company. Trucking companies, contractors, and even manufacturers may share liability depending on the circumstances of the crash. Due to these factors, it is important to have an attorney with experience in truck accident cases who understands the specific regulations and legal challenges.
What Compensation Can I Receive for a Truck Accident Claim?
Compensation in truck accident cases can cover a wide range of damages. This may include:
- Medical expenses related to injuries sustained in the accident, such as hospital bills, surgery costs, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
- Compensation for lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working temporarily or permanently.
- Truck accident claims may also seek damages for pain and suffering, mental anguish, and reduced quality of life.
In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded. These are designed to punish particularly reckless behavior, such as driving under the influence or intentionally disregarding safety regulations.
How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Claim in Las Cruces?
The amount of time you have to file a truck accident claim in New Mexico, known as the statute of limitations, is three years from the accident date. If you do not file your lawsuit within this time frame, you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries and other damages. It is important to remember that gathering evidence, speaking with witnesses, and building a strong case can take time, so contacting a lawyer immediately after the accident is advisable.
What Should I Expect During the Truck Accident Claim Process?
The truck accident claim process begins with an investigation into the details of the accident. This may involve reviewing police reports, collecting evidence from the scene, obtaining witness statements, and consulting with experts in fields like accident reconstruction or medical care. Once the investigation is complete, your lawyer will work with you to file a claim against the responsible party or parties, seeking compensation for your injuries and other damages.
There may be negotiations with insurance companies and other involved parties throughout the process to reach a settlement. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to trial, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome. Each step of the process requires careful attention to detail, so it is beneficial to work with a lawyer who can manage the legal aspects while you focus on recovery.
Can I Afford a Truck Accident Lawyer?
Many truck accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they do not charge upfront fees for their services. Instead, the lawyer is paid a percentage of your compensation from a settlement or court judgment. This arrangement allows those injured in a truck accident to obtain legal representation without worrying about the financial burden of attorney fees.
Discussing the specific fee structure with your lawyer during the initial consultation is important to help you fully understand how payment will be handled. This discussion can also provide insight into the overall process and help you feel more comfortable moving forward with your claim.
The Skilled Las Cruces Truck Accident Lawyers at Flores Mendez Law Are on Your Side
Take the first step toward protecting your rights after a truck accident by contacting the experienced Las Cruces truck accident lawyers at Flores Mendez Law for a free consultation. To learn more, call our El Paso, Texas and Las Cruces, New Mexico offices at 915-308-9999 or contact us online. We serve clients in the surrounding areas.