Semi-trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and commercial drivers are often on the road for 11 hours per day. Although truckers tend to have more experience behind the wheel than the average driver, 18-wheeler accidents are still alarmingly common. In 2014, these collisions killed more than 3,900 people and injured approximately 111,000.
The costs of medical bills and lost income can add up quickly after a tractor-trailer wreck. If you were hurt or lost a family member due to a negligent truck driver, you may be entitled to compensation for these losses and other damages. In the state of Louisiana, the following damages may be recoverable after a semi-truck crash:
- Loss of future earning capacity;
- Income lost during recovery;
- Property damage;
- Past medical bills;
- Future medical expenses;
- Pain and suffering;
- Mental anguish;
- Loss of consortium; and
- If the driver acted with particularly egregious behavior, you may be entitled to punitive damages.
One of the first steps in making a personal injury claim is to identify all liable parties. This can be complicated after a truck accident because there are several parties who may be liable for damages. Depending on the cause of your collision, you may have grounds for a claim against:
- The driver of the 18-wheeler;
- The company that employs the driver;
- The manufacturer of the truck;
- A negligent mechanic;
- The company that loads the cargo; or
- The city if poor road maintenance caused the crash.
A personal injury lawyer from Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers can evaluate your case, identify all liable parties, and help you make a claim for the maximum compensation. Our award-winning attorneys have recovered more than $200 million for our clients. Call 800-522-6733 to arrange a free initial consultation with an auto accident lawyer in Lafayette.
What Evidence Will I Need to Prove Liability, Negligence, and Damages after a Truck Accident?
If the at-fault driver or insurance company disputes your claim, you or your attorney must be able to present evidence to prove liability, negligence, and damages. The following types of evidence are often essential in truck accident injury cases:
- The truck’s black box data;
- Receipts that show the driver violated the Hours of Service Regulations;
- Photos of the crash scene;
- Witness testimonies;
- Testimonies from medical and financial experts;
- Testimonies from accident reconstruction experts;
- Documentation to prove lost income;
- Receipts for any modifications to your home that were necessary to accommodate your injury;
- Doctor’s records; and
- The police report.
Laborde Earles injury was great for me they took care of me very fast and professional. If for any reason I need legal help they will be who I use.
ClientA personal injury attorney from Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers will help you gather the necessary evidence to support your claim. Our law firm has the highest possible rating – an AV preeminent rating – from Martindale-Hubbell. Call 800-522-6733 to schedule a free consultation with an auto accident lawyer in Lafayette.
