Wichita Truck Accident Attorneys

After a Truck Accident, Call (316) 888-7500

Navigating the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, to say the least. At DiPasquale Moore, our team of dedicated Wichita truck accident lawyers is here to guide you through this challenging time. We have the experience and resources that you expect from a large law firm, paired with the compassion and attention to detail you see in smaller firms. With us by your side, you can focus on recovery while we concentrate on achieving justice for you.

Call (316) 888-7500 or contact us online today for a free consultation.

Different Forms of Truck Driver Negligence

In many truck accidents, it’s the commercial trucks – not the smaller passenger vehicles they collide with – that are at fault. Truck drivers and their insurers might tell you otherwise, though. Our Wichita truck accident attorneys are ready to challenge their accusations and the many attempts that they might make to dodge liability.

Various forms of truck driver negligence can contribute to these devastating incidents, such as:

• Driving while distracted: The demands of long-haul trucking often lead to drivers engaging in other activities while on the road. Whether it’s using a mobile device, eating, or adjusting radio or GPS controls, any distraction can have deadly consequences for other motorists.
• Driving while exhausted: Truck drivers often work long hours and cover vast distances, leading to fatigue. Tired drivers have slower reaction times and are more likely to make mistakes, increasing the risk of accidents. They must recognize when they are too tired to drive and pull over for rest.
• Driving while intoxicated: Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol is dangerous for any driver, but for truck drivers, the risk and potential for harm are significantly increased.
• Speeding: To meet tight deadlines, truck drivers may exceed speed limits or drive too fast for conditions. This reckless behavior not only breaks the law but also significantly increases the risk of a crash due to the extended stopping distance required for large commercial trucks.

Different Forms of Trucking Company Negligence

While holding a negligent truck driver is important, it’s just as important to realize that the driver might not be the only party to hold accountable. The trucking companies themselves often play a significant role in these incidents and can be named as defendants in lawsuits. In fact, many large settlements and verdicts for truck accident claims are accomplished by filing against the trucking company along with or instead of the truck driver.

Trucking company negligence that can contribute to a truck accident might include:

• Hiring unqualified drivers: Trucking companies have a responsibility to ensure that their drivers are qualified and competent. Hiring drivers without the proper licenses or experience, for example, can lead to serious accidents.
• Lack of training: Driving a commercial truck requires specialized knowledge and skills. Trucking companies should provide training to drivers who need it. Or if a trucking company is not willing to provide that training, then it should not hire truck drivers who require it.
• Enforcing exhausting schedules: Truck drivers often face demanding schedules set by their employers. When companies disregard federal regulations regarding rest periods and push their drivers to work long hours, it can result in fatigue-related accidents.
• Poor vehicle maintenance: Commercial trucks require regular maintenance to stay safe and operational. If a trucking company neglects this duty, critical vehicle systems may fail, leading to catastrophic accidents. At the least, trucking companies should take steps to make sure that their drivers do not operate vehicles that are not fit for the road.

Why Truck Accidents Are Different from Car Accidents

Truck accidents are significantly different from car accidents primarily because of the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. When a truck collides with a smaller vehicle, the impact is far more catastrophic due to the disparity in mass, often leading to severe injuries or fatalities. Additionally, truck accidents often involve multiple parties such as the truck driver, the trucking company, and the manufacturer of truck parts, making the legal processes more complex. Lastly, commercial trucks have specific federal regulations regarding maintenance, operation, and driver conduct which, if violated, can play a pivotal role in accident cases.

What is an Electronic Control Module?

An Electronic Control Module (ECM), also known as a “black box,” is a device installed in some commercial trucks that records trip data. This can include information about the truck’s speed, brake usage, engine RPM, and even seat belt use. Furthermore, it tracks the hours of operation, effectively monitoring how often and how long the truck driver took breaks. This data can serve as valuable evidence in truck accident cases, providing insights into the driver’s actions and behaviors before the collision.

Damages in a Truck Accident Claim

Truck accidents often lead to devastating financial burdens due to extensive medical costs, loss of income, and other related expenses. That’s why it is so important to reach out to DiPasquale Moore if you’re in a wreck. Our Wichita truck accident lawyers understand the intricacies of truck accident claims and can fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.

Damages that may be available in a successful truck accident claim include:

• Past and future medical bills: This includes all medical expenses related to the accident, both those already incurred and those expected in the future. It can cover hospital stays, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and any necessary medical equipment.
• Past and future lost income: If the accident has caused you to miss work or has impacted your ability to earn future income, you may be able to demand compensation for lost wages and diminished earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering: This refers to the physical pain and emotional distress suffered due to the truck accident. While these damages are more subjective, they can significantly impact the quality of life, so they can significantly increase a claim’s value.
• Wrongful death damages: If a truck accident results in the death of a loved one, the surviving family members may seek compensation for various damages only available through a wrongful death claim.

Let Yourself Rest by Letting Us Handle the Claim

As dedicated advocates for truck accident claimants in Wichita, our team is ready to stand by your side. We are committed to pursuing the justice and compensation you deserve after you were hit by a negligent commercial truck driver. With our extensive experience in handling complex truck accident cases, we can navigate the legal landscape on your behalf.

Call (316) 888-7500 or contact us online today for a free consultation.