Truck Accident Attorney in Las Vegas Serving Clients Throughout Nevada

Did you know that almost any serious Las Vegas truck accident results in severe and fatal injuries? While many in Las Vegas are debilitating, a truck and car accident is often worse due to the sheer size and weight of the vehicle. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), large trucks—which are also known big rigs, 18-wheelers, and semi-trucks—often weigh in excess of 10,000 pounds, and they have a very high ground clearance. Given that large trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds with cargo, these vehicles can weigh as much as 40 times as a passenger car. All of this means that a collision with a smaller passenger vehicle can be devastating.

Recovering from any personal injury can be difficult, but it can be especially tough to find a way to cover your extensive medical bills after a truck accident, especially when your injuries are so severe that you are unable to return to work. While some truck accident victims ultimately are able to return to a job in a limited capacity, many live the rest of their lives with permanent partial or total disabilities. You should know that you may be eligible to file a claim for compensation. An aggressive Las Vegas truck accident attorney can assist with your case.

Common Causes of Big Rig, Semi, Truck & 18 Wheeler Accidents in Vegas

Many truck & motorcycle accidents happen on highways or other major roads around Las Vegas. What causes a serious truck accident? There are many different reasons that truck crashes occur, according to a crash causation study from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), including but not limited to the following:

• Driver mistake or error;
• Improperly loaded cargo;
• Poor vehicle maintenance;
• Tire blowouts;
• Auto defect;
• Poor road maintenance;
• Inclement weather;
• Abrupt Lane Changes that result in Underriding;
• Rollover;
• Lost Loads;
• Jackknife;
• Not paying close enough attention to blind spots; and
• Inattentive semi drivers

All the above situations can lead to Semi Truck Accidents, collisions with passenger vehicles, non-emergency medical transport vehicles and even wrecks with garbage & disposal trucks.

Liability in a Truck Accident

Truck drivers have a duty to be careful when they are behind the wheel. Even if inclement weather plays a role in a truck incident, the truck driver losing control still may have been going too fast for the conditions and still may be liable for the accident. Unlike many car accidents in the Las Vegas area, these accident claims may have many different responsible parties. This is typically good for plaintiffs, since trucking companies or truck manufacturers tend to have deeper pockets than the truck driver. Examples of individuals who may bear some responsibility for an accident include but are not limited to:

• • Truck driver;
  • Truck owner;
  • Trucking company;
  • Company responsible for loading the truck;
  • Employee of the loading company;
  • Truck mechanic;
  • Trucking company dealer that employs the mechanic;
  • Truck part designer; and/or
  • Truck part manufacturer.

  Depending on the specific facts of your case, you may be able to hold multiple parties liable for a truck collision. For example, if the truck owner or trucking company failed to have the truck properly maintained, that poor maintenance could have played a role in causing the crash. Or, for example, if the mechanic was negligent, the company that does the maintenance on the truck may be liable. Moreover, if the accident results from a defect in the design or manufacture of the truck or one of its parts, the designer or manufacturer may be held responsible through a product liability claim.

  When a truck driver’s negligence causes the semi trucks crash, some of the most common reasons include but are not limited to:

  • Aggressive driving, which can include speeding, running a red light, running a stop sign, tailgating or following too closely, weaving between traffic, and passing on the right;
  • Drowsy driving, which can happen whenever a driver fails to get enough sleep and is too fatigued to be safely behind the wheel;
  • Impaired driving, which can include having a blood alcohol content of 0.08 percent or higher or driving under the influence of drugs; and
  • Distracted driving, which can involve taking your eyes, hands, or mind off the road and often results from using a cell phone or smartphone behind the wheel.

  A dedicated Las Vegas truck accident lawyer can help you to determine the responsible parties and vehicles involved in the crash who should be named in your claim, and we can get started on your case immediately.

  Serious Injuries in Las Vegas Trucking Collisions

As we mentioned, trucking collisions typically result in severe and life-threatening injuries. In many cases, truck crashes prove to be fatal. Some of the most common catastrophic injuries in a large truck collision include the following:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs);
• Spinal cord injuries (SCIs);
• Back injuries;
• Neck injuries;
• Broken bones or fractures;
• Internal organ damage;
• Burn injuries;
• Paralysis;
• Loss of limb or amputation; and
• Psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

How to Safely Exit Your Vehicle After an Accident With a Semi Truck

Assess the Situation and Stay Calm

When involved in a collision with a semi-truck, it’s essential to stay as calm as possible and assess the situation before attempting to exit your crashed vehicle. Check for any immediate hazards like smoke, fire, or the possibility of oncoming traffic. If you can do so safely, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to the serious accident scene. Staying calm will help you make better decisions about when and how to exit the vehicle.

Wait for the All-Clear Signal

In the immediate aftermath of a collision with a semi-truck, it’s best to remain in your vehicle if you are not in immediate danger. This is especially true if you are on a busy road or highway. Wait for emergency responders to arrive and assess the situation. They will provide guidance on when it is safe to exit the vehicle. Keep your seatbelt fastened and remain in your seat until instructed otherwise.

Exit Safely and Move to a Safe Location

If emergency responders instruct you to exit the vehicle, do so carefully. First, check for any signs of injury and prioritize your safety. If you can move without further harm, exit the vehicle from the side opposite to the collision point, as the damaged area may still pose risks. Once outside, move to a safe location away from the road and any potential hazards. Always follow the guidance of emergency personnel and be mindful of any oncoming traffic.

Seek Medical Attention and Legal Assistance

Even if you do not appear injured immediately after a collision with a semi-truck, it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but can worsen over time. Additionally, consult with a personal injury attorney experienced in handling accidents involving commercial trucks and other vehicles. They can help you understand your legal rights and guide you through the process of seeking compensation for medical bills, property damage, and other losses resulting from the collision. It’s crucial to take these steps to ensure your safety and protect your interests following such a traumatic event.

Many people have been injured in a semi truck accidents in Las Vegas. If you are one of them, contact an experienced truck accident lawyer with Ladah Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Las Vegas for a free consultation today.

Seeking Compensation: Compensatory Damage in a Nevada Personal Injury Case

If you file a personal injury claim after sustaining injuries in a trucking collision, what kinds of damages can you pursue? According to Nevada law (NRS 42.001), a plaintiff may have the opportunity to obtain two types of compensatory damages, both intended to provide compensation for the victim’s injuries and losses in the accident.

Economic damages: any direct, financial losses like ambulance ride cost, hospital bills, surgery bills, prescription medication costs, follow-up doctor’s visit fees, physical therapy, and lost wages fall into this category. Non-economic damages: any subjective, indirect losses on which you cannot put an objective dollar figure, like pain and suffering or the loss of enjoyment of life, fall into this category.

How to find the best Las Vegas Truck Accident Attorneys

Understanding the Importance of an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney in Las Vegas

When dealing with the aftermath of a truck accident in Las Vegas, finding the right truck company attorney is crucial. Truck accidents can result in serious injuries, extensive medical bills, and significant property damage. To ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve, it’s imperative to seek an experienced truck accident attorney who specializes in handling truck accidents.

The Role of Trucking Companies and Truck Drivers in Truck Accidents

Truck accidents in Las Vegas can be complex cases, often involving multiple parties. Trucking companies and truck drivers can play a significant role in these accidents. It’s essential to work with an attorney who understands the dynamics of commercial truck accidents, as they have experience in truck incident cases dealing with trucking companies and truck drivers. This knowledge is invaluable when seeking compensation for your injuries and losses.

Identifying the Right Law Firm for Truck Accidents in Las Vegas

Choosing the right law firm to handle your truck accident case in Las Vegas is a critical decision. Look for law firms that have a proven track record of success in handling truck accidents. These firms often have a team of experienced truck accident attorneys who can provide expert guidance and representation. When searching for truck accident attorneys, consider their past results and client testimonials to gauge their ability to secure maximum compensation.

The Complexity of Truck Accidents in Las Vegas

Truck accidents are not like typical car accidents; they come with a unique set of challenges and complexities. To navigate the intricacies of trucking accidents successfully, you need the expertise of experienced commercial truck accident victims’ attorneys. Their understanding of federal and state regulations specific to commercial truck accidents is invaluable when building a strong case to maximize your compensation.

The Difference Experienced Truck Accident Lawyers Make

In Las Vegas, truck accident lawyers can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Their deep knowledge of truck accidents, their causes, and the laws surrounding them can help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve. When dealing with the aftermath of a truck accident, do not underestimate the crucial role experienced truck accident attorneys play in protecting your rights and securing the maximum possible compensation.

What about punitive damages?

In some cases, for truck accident claims, you may have the opportunity to pursue what Nevada law (NRS 42.005) refers to as exemplary or punitive damages. Punitive damages serve the specific purpose of punishing the defendant (or defendants) for particularly egregious actions. To secure a punitive damages award in a truck crash claim, the plaintiff typically must demonstrate that a product designer or manufacturer was aware of a defect and engaged in fraudulent activities, or that another defendant acted with malice. Malice, in this context, is defined as “conduct that is intended to harm a person or as despicable conduct carried out with a conscious disregard for the rights or safety of others.” Learn more about this legal option and how it may apply to your case by visiting our website.

When a plaintiff is awarded exemplary or punitive damages, the damages cap is three times the compensatory damages award if the compensatory award exceeds $100,000. In cases where the compensatory damages award falls below $100,000, the cap for exemplary or punitive damages is $300,000. A Las Vegas truck accident attorney can discuss possible damages with you.

Statute of Limitations for Your Truck Accident Claim

When you are injured in a trucking collision, it is extremely important to be aware of the statute of limitations. This is a law that specifies the amount of time you have to file your claim. If you do not file your lawsuit within the specific period of time that is outlined in the statute of limitations, you will be barred from filing a lawsuit. So if you are suffering because of a collision with a Las Vegas truck. Contact the experts at Ladah Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Las Vegas. We have represented people injured in a truck crash and can provide legal services to you. Let us help you obtain compensation to pay for current and future medical expenses incurred from your medical care

A seasoned truck accident lawyer knows that Nevada law (NRS 11.190) says that the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim is two years. This means that anyone injured in a trucking crash must file a lawsuit within two years from the date of the collision or else be barred from filing a claim. Two years might sound like a lot of time immediately after the crash, especially when you are dealing with the physical and psychological toll of the accident. However, the sooner you contact a personal injury lawyer, the sooner we can begin investigating your claim and gathering valuable evidence to prove the defendant’s liability. If you were injured in a Las Vegas truck accident. Contact Ladah Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Las Vegas for a free consultation and let us help you file a truck accident claim.

How Comparative Fault Affects Las Vegas Personal Injury Cases

What will happen if you were partially to blame for the truck crash? For example, what if you were going five or ten miles over the speed limit when a commercial truck driver with a commercial driver’s license crashed into your vehicle? Nevada law (NRS 41.141) follows what is known as a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This rule says that as long as a plaintiff’s negligence or fault is not greater than the negligence of the defendant(s), the plaintiff can still recover damages. However, her award will be reduced by her percentage of the negligence. This means that owners and drivers of commercial trucks will be liable for their fair share of the damages.

To be clear, as long as a plaintiff is 50 percent or less responsible, she can recover. Once she is 51 percent or more responsible, she cannot recover damages.

To explain how the damages award is reduced by the plaintiff’s percentage of the negligence, imagine a plaintiff is 30 percent negligent. She receives an initial damages award of $100,000. However, that award will need to be reduced by her percentage of the negligence, which is 30 percent or $30,000. In this scenario, the plaintiff ultimately would recover $70,000. Trucking accidents are not rare in the Las Vegas area and when they happen, the awards can be quite high. Even if you were somewhat at fault in the Las Vegas accident, you may still be eligible recover a percentage of the award.

How Much Does a Truck Accident Lawyer Cost?

Understanding the Costs of Hiring a Vegas Truck Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been involved in a semi-truck accident in Las Vegas and are considering seeking legal assistance, it’s important to understand the potential costs involved. Many truck accident lawyers in Las Vegas operate on a contingency fee basis, which can be beneficial for those seeking legal representation for their personal injury claims or wrongful death cases.

Contingency Fee Basis for Truck Accident Cases

One of the significant advantages of hiring a Vegas truck accident lawyer is that they often work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you don’t have to pay any upfront fees to retain their services. Instead, the attorney’s fees are contingent on the successful outcome of your case. In the event that your lawyer secures fair compensation for your truck accident injuries, their fees will typically be a percentage of the settlement or judgment. This arrangement allows individuals to access experienced legal representation without financial barriers.

Costs Associated with Semi-Truck Accident Cases

When it comes to hiring a Vegas truck accident lawyer, the cost of legal representation is often tied to the complexity of your case. Semi-truck accident cases can be intricate due to the involvement of commercial vehicles, potentially multiple liable parties, and significant damages. While attorneys typically structure their fees on a contingency fee basis, the case may still incur other costs, including court filing fees and expenses for expert witnesses. It’s essential to discuss these potential costs with your lawyer to ensure clarity on what to expect.

Providing Legal Support for Personal Injury Claims and More

Las Vegas truck accident lawyers possess the capability to manage a broad spectrum of cases encompassing semi-truck accidents, personal injury claims, and wrongful death. Their expertise extends to accidents involving other vehicles as well. Collaborating with an experienced truck accident lawyer enhances compensation prospects and assures clarity in the cost structure of contingency fees.

FAQ: What Do You Need to Know About Filing Your Truck Accident Lawsuit?

We often receive similar questions from injury victims about filing trucking accident claims, and we want to help by addressing some of our most frequently asked questions.

• What Should I Do Immediately After the Truck Accident?
• Document the scene as best as you are able. This means taking photos and collecting contact information for anyone else involved in the crash or anyone who witnessed the accident.
• Do I Need to Visit a Doctor?
• You should see a healthcare provider as soon as possible after the crash. You will need detailed medical records about your injuries when you file a claim. Delayed medical care may worsen injuries, enabling the defendant to assert partial responsibility for their severity. Timely medical assessment helps detect concealed injuries, ensuring suitable treatment.
• How Much Information Should I Give to My Insurance Company?
• Only give the facts to your insurance company. Report the accident promptly, but refrain from giving your opinion to the insurance company. Remember, insurers are not always on your side.
• Should I Contact the Truck Insurance Company Myself?
• Alert your insurer promptly, but seek legal counsel before engaging with the truck insurance company.
• How Long Will My Truck Accident Case Take Before I Receive Compensation?
• Every case is different—these cases can take anywhere from weeks to many months. Sometimes we are able to settle your claim quickly, while sometimes it is essential to take your case to court. Regardless, our team will be with you every step of the way, advocating for your right to compensation.

Contact a Las Vegas Trucking Accident Attorney

If injured in a Las Vegas truck accident, consult a Las Vegas truck accident lawyer at Ladah Law for experienced representation and claim assistance.

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Common Truck Accident FAQs

[toggle header=”Do I Need to Give a Statement to the Trucking Company or Its Insurer?”]

At some point, you probably do. But you can control when you give the statement. Provide a statement after reflection and when pain has subsided.

Do not be surprised if the trucking company has an investigator on the scene of the crash soon after it occurs. Trucking companies do not want to pay money to injured victims unless they have to, so they thoroughly investigate crashes. In truth, the investigator is also looking for information they can use to show that you are to blame for the accident, which would relieve them of liability.

If an investigator approaches you at the scene of the accident, take their card but do not speak with them. Tell them you aren’t feeling well and that your attorney will be in touch.[/toggle][toggle header=”What is Black Box Data?”]

Modern trucks feature data boxes recording vital information, such as road time and acceleration/braking patterns just before a collision. While these black boxes are not mandatory in every truck, a significant number of them are equipped with this technology. Your truck accident attorney should know how to gain access to this information, which can prove critical for your case.

Truckers also now record their hours of service using electronic logging devices that have replaced the old paper logs. These devices are a boon to lawyers. Previously, trucking firms maintained dual paper logs, one inaccurate for public view. Now, with electronic logging devices, attorneys can establish negligence accurately./toggle][toggle header=”Does Compensation in a Truck Accident Differ from Other Cases?”]

A little bit. Typically, truck accidents cause more serious injuries, possibly even death. The amount of compensation our clients can receive often rises when the injuries are more serious. Truck accident victims can often receive larger settlements than those hit by regular passenger cars due to the severity of injuries.

Of course, every case is different. If your injuries are minor, it doesn’t matter whether a truck or a passenger sedan struck you. The severity of your injuries, the financial losses incurred due to the accident, and your level of fault determine your compensation.[/toggle][toggle header=”Three Things to Consider when Dealing with Truck Accident Injuries”]

Hiring an experienced truck accident attorney allows you to concentrate on your recovery by managing the legal aspects of your case. But there are three things you must remember.

First, you should always follow your doctor’s advice. If your doctor advises bed rest, then stay in bed. Do not go out walking with your spouse or children. Also, don’t rake the yard or decide now is the time to install new lights on your porch.

Trucking firms hire investigators to validate injuries, potentially using surveillance footage as evidence to challenge the severity of your injuries.

Third, you should not share information about the accident or your injuries on social media. In fact, it is a good idea to set social media profiles to private. Some insurance companies comb through social media accounts looking for information to use against you. If you report leaving the state for a wedding, they could argue that you aren’t seriously injured.[/toggle][toggle header=”How Do I Know I Have Hired the Right Trucking Accident Attorney?”]

Look for a track record of success. Also listen closely to the attorney describe your case. Confident, experienced attorneys understand the law inside and out but can explain it in a simple manner. This is the real sign that you have hired the right lawyer to seek compensation for your injuries.

[/toggle][toggle header=”Should I see Another Doctor if I am Not Improving?”]

Yes. Sometimes, an initial doctor does not diagnose your problems correctly. In other situations, the damage you have suffered could be more serious than initially realized. Get a second opinion.

The last thing you want to do, however, is to self-diagnose your problems. Chances are you will not get the treatment you need, and your condition might worsen. If so, you can receive less in compensation than you might otherwise qualify for.[/toggle]