An 18-wheeler accident can have a lasting impact on your life. Because commercial trucks are much larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, crashes can cause severe injuries. Victims may be left with costly medical bills, lost income, and weeks or months away from work.
If you were hurt in a truck crash in Birmingham, Alabama, you may have legal options. Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers can help you understand your rights. Contact us today at 205-973-6417 for a free consultation with a Birmingham 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer.
How Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After an 18-Wheeler Truck Accident in Birmingham, AL
Truck accident claims can be complicated because multiple parties may share responsibility, including the truck driver, trucking company, or another business. Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers has over 100 years of combined experience handling injury claims and has recovered hundreds of millions for clients.
Our Birmingham truck accident lawyers can help by:
- Investigating the crash and determining how it happened
- Gathering driver logs, trucking records, accident reports, and other evidence
- Identifying every party that may be responsible for your injuries
- Reviewing your medical bills, lost income, and other damages
- Handling negotiations with trucking companies and insurers
- Preparing your case for trial when necessary
Our law firm can guide you through the claims process and help you understand your legal options. Contact our Birmingham personal injury lawyers today to schedule a free consultation.
What Makes an Accident With an 18-Wheeler Truck Different From an Accident With a Passenger Vehicle?
An accident with an 18-wheeler can be very different from a normal car crash. Large trucks can weigh much more than passenger vehicles. Their size and weight can lead to severe injuries.
Truck accident cases can also involve more parties. The truck driver may be at fault. The trucking company, truck owner, or maintenance company may also share fault.
Commercial trucks must follow state and federal safety rules. These rules cover driving hours, truck inspections, and maintenance. Breaking these rules may help show who caused a crash.
Truck accidents can also involve special evidence. This may include driver logs, maintenance records, and electronic truck data. A lawyer can gather this evidence and use it to help build your case.
What Types of Injuries Can Result from an 18-Wheeler Truck Accident?
18-wheelers are much larger than most cars. They are also much heavier. This can lead to severe injuries when a crash happens.
Common injuries from truck accidents include:
- Brain injuries and concussions
- Broken bones
- Neck and back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Burns and severe cuts
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
Some injuries can cause lasting health problems. A victim may need surgery or physical therapy. Some people may need medical care for years.
You should get medical care as soon as possible after a crash. Your medical records may also help show how the accident affected you.
What Kinds of Damages Are Available to Victims of 18-Wheeler Truck Crashes?
You may be able to seek damages after a truck crash. Damages are meant to cover losses caused by the accident.
Economic damages cover financial losses. They may include medical bills and lost wages. They can also cover future medical care and reduced earning ability. Property damage may also be included.
Non-economic damages cover personal losses. These may include pain and suffering. They can also include emotional distress, disability, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Some victims may also qualify for other types of damages. This depends on how the crash happened.
A lawyer can review your case and explain which damages may be available. Your lawyer can also collect proof of your losses and seek fair compensation.
Statute of Limitations for Alabama Personal Injury Lawsuits
You generally have a limited amount of time to file a personal injury lawsuit in Alabama. Under Alabama law, many claims must be filed within two years.
Waiting too long can make it harder to preserve evidence and may cause you to lose your right to seek compensation. Some exceptions may apply, so speaking with a lawyer early can help you determine the deadline for your case.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Birmingham 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Lawyers
After a serious truck accident, you do not have to navigate the claims process alone. Belt, Bruner & Barnett Personal Injury Lawyers can investigate the crash, gather important evidence, identify potentially responsible parties, and handle communications with insurance companies.
Contact our Birmingham 18-wheeler truck accident attorneys today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your legal options.