Salt Lake City Truck Accident Lawyer

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This page was written, edited, reviewed & approved by Dustin Lance following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. Dustin Lance, the Founding Partner, has handled many types of personal injury cases and is licensed in Utah and Idaho.
Salt Lake City Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accidents can cause serious injuries and leave victims in a difficult position. If you’ve been in a truck accident in Salt Lake City, you need an experienced truck accident lawyer to help guide you through the legal process. Lance Bingham, P.C. is here to assist. With years of experience in handling truck accident claims, our personal injury law firm understands the complexities involved in such cases.

When you hire our truck accident attorneys, you get a trusted ally who can help with everything from filing your truck accident claim to negotiating with trucking companies and insurance providers. A skilled Salt Lake City truck accident lawyer will ensure that you have the best chance to get the compensation you deserve.

Whether you're dealing with medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering, we can provide the support you need to move forward.

What is Truck Accident Law?

Truck accident law encompasses legal claims brought by victims who have been injured in accidents involving commercial trucks, such as semi-trucks, big rigs, and delivery vehicles. These cases often involve complex legal issues, including multiple parties such as the truck driver, trucking companies, and insurance providers.

If you’ve been in an accident, it’s important to have a lawyer who understands the nuances of truck accident laws.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Salt Lake City

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Salt Lake City
  • Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers who are overworked or fail to take proper breaks are more likely to cause accidents.
  • Speeding: Semi trucks and commercial trucks that travel too fast can lose control, especially in bad weather conditions.
  • Improperly Loaded Cargo: When cargo is not loaded properly, it can shift or spill, leading to a truck accident.
  • Distracted Driving: Truck drivers may become distracted by texting, using GPS, or eating while driving.
  • Mechanical Failure: Faulty brakes or other vehicle maintenance issues can lead to accidents.
  • Driving Under the Influence: Truck drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs are at a higher risk of causing an accident.

Types of Truck Accidents in Salt Lake City

Truck accidents can happen in many different ways. Some of the most common types include:

Jackknife Accidents and Large-Scale Collisions

Jackknife accidents happen when a truck’s trailer swings out, creating a dangerous angle with the truck’s cab. This can block multiple lanes, leading to large-scale collisions. When a truck suddenly loses control, it can cause a pile-up, especially on highways. These types of accidents often involve multiple vehicles and can result in serious injuries, as other drivers may not have enough time to react.

Commercial Vehicle Accidents Involving Cargo Spills

When cargo is not properly secured or loaded, it can spill out onto the road during an accident. These spills can be dangerous, especially if the load consists of hazardous materials or heavy objects. The spilled cargo can block traffic, cause other vehicles to crash, or create hazardous conditions. In some cases, the spilled cargo may even cause fires or explosions, making the situation even worse.

Rear-End Collisions and T-Bone Accidents

Rear-end collisions happen when one vehicle crashes into the back of another, often due to sudden braking or a lack of attention. With trucks, these collisions can be much more serious due to the size and weight of the vehicle.

T-bone accidents occur when one vehicle hits another from the side, forming a “T” shape. These accidents can cause severe injuries, as the side of a car is less protected than the front or rear.

Rollover Accidents Involving Trucks

Rollover accidents occur when a truck overturns, often due to factors such as sharp turns, excessive speed, or poor road conditions that cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle. These accidents are particularly dangerous because the truck's large size and weight can cause massive destruction not only to the truck itself but also to any vehicles around it. The force of the rollover may crush the truck and send debris scattering across the road, creating a hazard for other drivers.

When a truck rolls over, it can block multiple lanes, making the situation even more dangerous for other vehicles that may not have enough time to react or avoid the crash. The risk of serious injury is significantly higher in rollover accidents, especially when the truck is carrying heavy loads or hazardous materials, as these can spill onto the road, exacerbating the chaos and increasing the likelihood of fires or other hazardous consequences.

Why You Need a Salt Lake City Truck Accident Lawyer

Why You Need a Salt Lake City Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accident cases are more complicated than car accident claims. With the involvement of large trucking companies, federal regulations, and the potential for multiple liable parties, it’s crucial to have an experienced truck accident lawyer on your side.

Some of the important reasons for hiring truck accident attorneys are:

Trucking Companies and Complex Liability

Truck accidents often involve multiple parties, including the driver, the trucking company, and sometimes the cargo owner. These companies are responsible for their drivers' actions and the condition of their trucks. However, they may try to shift the blame to avoid paying compensation.

A truck accident lawyer can help identify who is truly at fault, ensuring you get the right compensation for your injuries and damages.

Investigating the Cause of the Accident

To determine the cause of the accident, a thorough investigation is necessary. This involves reviewing the truck driver’s logs, inspecting the truck’s maintenance history, and collecting witness statements. Other factors, such as weather, road conditions, and potential distractions, also need to be considered.

A clear investigation helps establish what went wrong, proving fault and making it easier to win your case and get the compensation you deserve.

Handling Insurance Companies and Maximizing Compensation

Insurance companies often try to settle for less than you deserve, using tricks to downplay your injuries or shift some blame onto you. A skilled lawyer experienced in handling truck accidents can effectively negotiate on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected.

They’ll fight to get you full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain, suffering, and emotional distress, making sure that you are not taken advantage of in the process.

Common Injuries in Salt Lake City Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, some of which can be life-threatening. Common injuries include:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) are common in truck accidents and can be very serious. They happen when the head is hit or jolted, causing the brain to move inside the skull. TBIs can lead to long-term problems, including memory loss, difficulty speaking, and issues with movement or thinking. These injuries often require ongoing medical care and can affect a person’s ability to work or live independently.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

Spinal cord injuries can occur when the spine is damaged during a truck accident, often leading to paralysis. This can affect the ability to move parts of the body, including the arms, legs, or even the torso.

Depending on the severity of the injury, it may result in permanent loss of sensation or mobility. Rehabilitation and therapy may help, but many individuals may need lifelong support to manage their condition.

Broken Bones, Soft Tissue Injuries, and Internal Injuries

In truck accidents, broken bones, soft tissue injuries, and internal injuries are very common. Broken bones may require surgery and extended recovery times, while soft tissue injuries, such as sprains and strains, can be painful and take a considerable amount of time to heal.

Internal injuries, like damage to organs or blood vessels, can be life-threatening and may not be immediately visible. All of these injuries need proper treatment and care.

Emotional and Psychological Impact of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can also cause emotional and psychological harm. Victims often experience trauma, anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of the crash. These mental health issues can be just as challenging to recover from as physical injuries.

Therapy and counseling may be needed to help victims cope with the emotional and psychological impact, and these damages can also be part of a legal claim.

The Legal Process for Truck Accident Claims in Salt Lake City

The Legal Process for Truck Accident Claims in Salt Lake City

Understanding the legal process for truck accident claims can be overwhelming.

Filing a Truck Accident Claim in Salt Lake City

  • Seek Medical Attention: After the accident, your health is the top priority. Get checked by a doctor, even if you feel fine, as some injuries may not be visible right away.
  • Gather Evidence: Collect as much evidence as possible, including photos of the scene, your injuries, and vehicle damage. Also, get contact information from witnesses and the truck driver.
  • Report the Accident: File a police report. This official record will be important for your claim and help establish the facts of the accident.
  • Contact an Experienced Lawyer: Reach out to an experienced Utah truck accident lawyer who can guide you through the legal process, helping you understand your rights and options.
  • Notify the Insurance Companies: Inform your insurance company and the trucker’s insurance provider about the accident. Your lawyer can help you handle communication and avoid mistakes.
  • File Your Insurance Claim: With your lawyer’s help, file your insurance claim with the appropriate insurance company, providing all the necessary evidence and medical records.
  • Negotiate a Settlement: Insurance companies may offer a settlement, but it’s important to have your lawyer negotiate on your behalf to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
  • Consider Legal Action: If a fair settlement is not reached, your lawyer may recommend filing a lawsuit to ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries and damages.

Statute of Limitations for Truck Accident Claims

In Utah, you generally have four years from the date of the accident to file a truck accident claim. However, it’s best to start as soon as possible to preserve evidence and improve your chances of a successful case.

Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Truck Accident in Salt Lake City

After a truck accident, it’s important to avoid certain mistakes that can hurt your case. Here are some common ones:

Admitting Fault or Apologizing at the Scene

After a truck accident, it’s important not to admit fault or apologize at the accident scene, even if you feel responsible. Apologizing or saying something that sounds like you’re taking blame can be used against you later.

The responsible parties, including the truck driver or their company, may be able to avoid being held liable for the accident. It’s best to stay calm, gather evidence, and consult with truck accident attorneys for assistance.

Delaying Medical Treatment

Delaying medical treatment after a truck accident can have serious consequences, as injuries may not be immediately obvious. Waiting too long to seek care can worsen your condition and make it harder to prove the extent of your injuries later.

Insurance companies and other parties involved may argue that your injuries aren’t as serious as you claim. To protect your health and claim, consult a doctor immediately.

Not Hiring a Lawyer Immediately

Waiting too long to hire truck accident attorneys can be harmful to your case. The sooner you have legal representation, the sooner your lawyer can start gathering evidence, communicating with insurance companies, and ensuring that responsible parties are held liable.

Delaying can make it harder to gather important evidence, and valuable information may be lost over time. An experienced lawyer can help you through the process and fight for fair compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Salt Lake City Truck Accident Cases

What should I do after a semi truck accident?

After a semi truck accident, make sure you seek medical treatment right away, even if you don't feel hurt. Gather evidence, like photos and witness statements, and contact a personal injury lawyer to help with your case. Your lawyer can help with determining liability and guide you through the process of filing a claim for medical expenses and other damages.

How can I prove who is responsible in a semi truck crash?

Proving who is responsible for a semi truck crash involves reviewing several factors, such as the truck driver’s actions, the company responsible for the truck, and the truck's maintenance records. Your personal injury lawyer can help investigate these details, gather evidence, and identify whether the truck driver, trucking company, or even an independent contractor is at fault for the crash.

What types of damages can I claim after a truck accident?

After a truck accident, you can claim both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover things like medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage, while non-economic damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and intangible losses. If a loved one was involved in a fatal crash, you might also pursue a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for the loss of your family member.

How do blind spots contribute to semi-truck accidents?

Blind spots are areas around a semi truck that the driver cannot see, even with mirrors. When a truck driver fails to check these blind spots, it can lead to accidents with other vehicles, especially when changing lanes or turning. In some cases, the company responsible for the truck may be held liable if they didn’t properly train the driver on blind spot safety or if the truck’s mirrors were not properly maintained.

Can I claim damages for emotional distress after a truck accident?

Yes, you can claim non-economic damages for emotional distress after a truck accident. This includes things like anxiety, depression, and trauma caused by the crash. If you’ve lost a loved one in a semi truck accident, your family member’s loss can also be factored into the claim for non-economic damages. A personal injury lawyer can help ensure that these intangible losses are considered in your case.

Contact Our Salt Lake City Truck Accident Attorneys for a Free Consultation

Contact Our Salt Lake City Truck Accident Attorneys for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been hurt in a truck accident, you don’t have to go through it alone. At Lance Bingham, P.C., our law firm has years of combined experience handling truck accident cases and personal injury matters. Our legal team is ready to guide you through the entire process, helping you understand your rights and the next steps to take. We can help you get compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and even emotional distress.

We understand the devastating consequences of truck accidents, and we fight to make sure you get the justice you deserve. You don’t have to worry about legal fees upfront – we offer a free consultation so you can get advice without any pressure. Whether your case involves a truck accident or a car accident, we are here to help.

Contact us today to speak with one of our experienced attorneys and start the path to recovery.

Areas We Serve:

Salt Lake City, West Valley City, West Jordan, Sandy, South Jordan, Herriman, Millcreek, Taylorsville, Murray, Draper and surrounding areas.

Dustin Lance
Personal Injury Lawyer

Dustin specializes in serious accident and injury cases in Utah and Idaho, practicing in State and Federal Courts. He's recognized as "Utah's Legal Elite," a "Mountain States Rising Star," and a member of The National Trial Lawyers Top 100. He holds an Avvo Superb Rating and is actively involved in legal associations, serving as a judge pro tempore for the Utah Supreme Court. A Utah native, Dustin earned his degrees from the University of Utah. He lives in Farmington with his wife and three children, enjoying family time, flying, and various outdoor activities.

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