As a popular tourist destination and commercial hub, New Orleans is a busy city with heavy traffic. There are a large number of commercial vehicles and semi trucks traveling through and in the city at any given time, and occupants of smaller vehicles may be at a higher risk of suffering injuries because of a truck-auto collision.
If you were hurt in an accident involving a large commercial vehicle or semi truck, you have options. While you may feel overwhelmed and frustrated by your circumstances, you may have grounds to seek recovery through a personal injury claim.
Why do truck accidents happen?
There are a myriad of reasons why truck accidents occur, and many of them are completely preventable. There is a strong possibility that you suffered due to some of the following causes:
- Fatigued driving
- Improperly loaded cargo
- Negligent maintenance
- Untrained driver
- Distraction
- Bad tires or other vehicles parts
The massive size and heavy weight of trucks can cause significant damage if involved in an accident, even a low-speed impact. If negligence or reckless behavior played a role in your truck accident, it is possible to hold the trucker, trucking company or any other liable party accountable.
What to do following a truck accident
After a truck accident, it is important to secure experienced legal assistance as soon as possible. Many complex laws and regulations govern the trucking industry, and the success of your personal injury claim may depend on your lawyer’s knowledge of these rules.
Cargo weight limits, driver logbooks, training programs and many other factors must be carefully evaluated, along with evidence from the accident scene, to correctly identify your legal options and the appropriate amount of compensation for you. Going up against a trucking company and a powerful insurance provider is not easy, and you can benefit from the assistance of an experienced, aggressive litigator.
Protecting your best interests
Truck accidents often bring catastrophic and life-altering consequences, including medical bills, debilitating injuries and insecurity regarding your future. If you were hurt in a truck accident while in New Orleans, it is important to take immediate action to protect your rights.
Neither the trucking company nor the insurance provider has your best interests in mind after a truck accident, but you do not have to face them alone. With the appropriate legal help, you can secure the money you need for a full recovery and lay the foundation for a strong post-accident future.