Lafayette Truck Accident Lawyer

Lafayette Truck Accident Attorney

Truck accidents leave people out of work, injured, and facing insurance companies that refuse to pay what’s owed. These cases demand action. The trucking industry and its insurers have teams protecting their interests, and those who are hurt in crashes should have the same in the form of a Lafayette truck accident lawyer.

Accessible to Those Who Need Strong Representation

Sanchez Burke features skilled personal injury attorneys known for their diligence in protecting clients’ rights. Our reputation among colleagues reflects our commitment to fairness and justice. Every case is carefully reviewed, and when needed, additional evidence is gathered to strengthen claims. Our past work includes drafting legislation after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita to help Louisiana’s legal system remain functional during future disasters.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Lafayette

Recent data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) provides important insights into the factors behind commercial truck accidents and their devastating consequences. Age plays a significant role in commercial vehicle accidents. Out of the 5,634 large truck drivers involved in fatal crashes in 2021, 7% were 25 or younger, and another 7% were 66 or older.

Safety belt usage among truck operators is particularly concerning. In 2021, 15% of large truck occupants in fatal crashes weren’t wearing safety belts, resulting in 408 fatalities among this group. This is a striking 40% death rate. By comparison, only 8% of belted truck occupants in fatal crashes suffered fatal injuries. Overall, 10% of truck drivers in fatal crashes were unrestrained at the time of the incident.

Drug impairment remains a significant concern, though testing rates vary considerably. In 2021, 6% of large truck drivers in fatal crashes tested positive for at least one drug, but 62% were not tested at all. Driver-related crashes were recorded in 32% of large truck fatal crashes. Speeding was the most common factor, while distraction and inattention ranked as the second most frequent factor.

Who Can Be Held Responsible?

Liability in a truck accident can involve multiple parties depending on the circumstances. Holding the correct parties accountable is important for securing compensation. Some of the most common responsible parties include:

• Truck driver. If a driver was speeding, fatigued, impaired, or distracted, they can be held liable for negligence. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations require commercial drivers to maintain detailed logbooks tracking their hours of service. Violations of these regulations can be used as evidence of negligence, especially if drivers falsify records to conceal breaking driving limits.
• Trucking company. Companies may be responsible for unsafe hiring practices or forcing drivers to exceed legal hours. If an employer knowingly violates safety regulations, they share liability. Additionally, trucking companies that fail to conduct proper background checks or hire drivers with histories of violations may face heightened liability under negligent hiring theories.
• Vehicle Manufacturer. If a defective part, like faulty steering components or brakes, leads to an accident, the manufacturer may be held accountable under product liability laws. Manufacturers have a duty to verify that their products are reasonably safe when used as intended. Recent recalls of commercial vehicle parts can strengthen a liability claim because they are evidence that the manufacturer knew about the defects.
• Third-party contractors. Cargo loaders, maintenance crews, and subcontractors who improperly load or fail to inspect a truck can be liable if their negligence led to the accident. Improper weight distribution or unsecured cargo can cause trucks to jackknife or rollover, particularly during emergency maneuvers. The Code of Federal Regulations establishes specific requirements for the securing of cargo.
• Government entities. If poor road conditions, lack of signage, or inadequate highway maintenance contributed to the crash, a city or state agency could be partially responsible. However, claims against government entities are subject to different requirements. Successful claims typically require evidence that the government had actual or constructive notice of the dangerous condition but failed to address it fast enough.

Identifying all liable parties can bring larger damages for accident victims. This is why it is so important to consult an attorney to determine who can be held liable for your accident.

FAQs About Lafayette, LA Truck Accident Laws

What Steps Do I Take After a Truck Accident in Lafayette?

The steps to take after a truck accident in Lafayette include putting safety first. Seek immediate medical attention and call 911 to report the accident so law enforcement can document the scene. Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any injuries, if possible. Gather the necessary contact information from any witnesses and exchange details with the truck driver, including insurance and employer details.

What Kind of Lawyer Do I Need to File a Claim Against a Trucking Company?

The lawyer needed to file a claim against a trucking company is one who has experience in personal injury and truck accident litigation. Trucking companies and insurers have legal teams focused on limiting liability, so it’s important to have an attorney skilled in handling truck accident cases. Look for a lawyer with knowledge of federal trucking regulations, the state’s insurance requirements, and comparative fault laws.

How Do Truck Accident Claims Work?

Truck accident claims begin with an investigation to determine liability, including evidence like police reports and crash scene evidence. Your attorney can file a claim with the trucking company’s insurer, seeking compensation for damages. If a fair settlement isn’t reached, a legal claim can be filed, and both parties exchange evidence and depositions through a discovery phase. If negotiations fail, the case proceeds to trial to be determined by a judge or jury.

How Can a Truck Accident Lawyer Help You?

A truck accident lawyer can help you handle every aspect of your claim, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies. They keep your case compliant with Louisiana’s legal deadlines and fight for fair compensation. Attorneys identify all liable parties and use testimony to strengthen your case. They can counter tactics from insurers designed to minimize payouts.

Accountability Matters

Healing after a truck accident takes time, and financial stress should not slow that process. The right legal strategy can help you regain stability after a life-changing event. If an accident has changed your life’s course, the right legal help can bring clarity. Schedule a consultation with Sanchez Burke to give yourself a better chance of obtaining fair compensation.