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Trucking Accidents

When Facing Tough Times… You Need Someone You Can Trust

Truck Accident Attorney Summerville

How Are These Claims Different From an “Average” Car Wreck? 

Commercial trucking accident lawsuits are more severe, cost the insurance companies or trucking companies more money, are hotly contested, and can quickly turn into complex litigation.

The insurance companies for trucking companies and truck drivers will do everything possible to avoid paying your claim or to pay less than your claim is worth, and they will retain South Carolina’s best insurance defense firms to shut down your injury claim.

Commercial trucking accidents are crashes involving any type of large truck, including:

  • Eighteen-wheelers,
  • Tractor trailers,
  • Semi-trucks,
  • Delivery trucks,
  • Mail trucks,
  • Garbage trucks, or
  • Any heavy truck that poses a serious risk to other drivers on the road. 

You need a truck accident attorney in South Carolina with the experience and determination to litigate your situation and try your case to a jury when necessary to get full and fair compensation for your injuries.

You deserve the maximum compensation allowable under SC law for your trucking accident injuries. Templeton Mims & Ward, LLC has helped hundreds of clients recover damages and move on with their lives – put our experience to work for you.

Yes! I’m Ready to Speak With an Attorney

 

How a Trucking Accident Lawyer Can Help You

When you call the trucking accident attorneys at Templeton Mims & Ward, LLC, we will: 
 

  • Meet with you, answer your questions, and make sure you know what to expect as we move forward with your situation
  • Investigate the circumstances of the accident and gather evidence to prove liability and damages against the trucking company, the truck driver, and any other responsible parties,
  • Demand full and fair compensation for your injuries,
  • File a personal injury lawsuit and litigate your case, gathering additional evidence through discovery and depositions as the case progresses, and
  • Try your case to a jury when the insurance companies and trucking companies refuse to pay.

Beyond these immediate tasks, our comprehensive representation strategy ensures that we assess all possible avenues for your compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. By understanding the unique dynamics of each case, we tailor our approach to secure the best possible outcome for you. Our commitment extends to providing emotional support and taking the time to explain every step of the process so you're informed and empowered throughout.

An Eighteen-Wheeler Accident Attorney Who Cares About You

Your trucking accident lawyer at Templeton Mims & Ward, LLC and our friendly, helpful staff will be there for you at every stage of your truck accident claim from the day you first call us through the final stages of settlement or trial.

We will come to you for your initial meeting if you are hospitalized due to your injuries. When you have questions, we will answer the phone or promptly return your call with answers. We prioritize being there for our clients when they need us.

Our firm understands that recovering from an eighteen-wheeler accident is not solely about dealing with legalities. We also connect clients to a network of professionals who can help with rehabilitation and recovery, from medical specialists to support groups, ensuring that every aspect of your healing journey is covered. Our empathetic approach aims to reduce the stress during this challenging time, so you feel supported both legally and personally.

A Commercial Trucking Accident Lawyer with Experience

Consider a large truck accident lawyer who has successfully helped scores of clients recover compensation through settlements or jury trials. 

We know what needs to be done to investigate your crash, the trucking company, and the truck driver, and to gather the evidence you will need to prove liability and damages in your case. We know the defenses that the insurance companies are likely to raise, and we are prepared to take on the insurance defense firms that will try to shut down your claim.

We have access to the experts you may need to prove liability and damages, including:

Our goal is to recover the maximum compensation that you are entitled to under South Carolina law, and we will do everything that is legally and ethically within our power to help you.

Engaging with a trucking accident attorney who can navigate the complexities of the legal system can make a significant difference in your case outcome. Our team's approach includes staying up-to-date with changes in trucking regulations and leveraging innovative legal strategies to counteract the defenses employed by large corporations. We believe in arming our clients with all available options, explaining each with clarity to make informed decisions about their legal journey.

Types of Commercial Trucking Accidents

Eighteen-Wheeler Crashes

The most catastrophic large truck crashes often involve eighteen-wheelers or tractor-trailer accidents, due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles.

Eighteen-wheeler drivers and trucking companies are regulated by numerous SC and federal regulations.

A deeper understanding of these regulations is crucial for building a strong case. Violations like exceeding permissible weight limits, inadequate truck maintenance, or driver fatigue due to negligence regarding service hour rules can be pivotal in proving liability. Our firm meticulously investigates these aspects to uncover breaches that contribute to accidents, strengthening your position during negotiations or in court.

Delivery Truck Accidents

Delivery drivers, whether it is an eighteen-wheeler delivering goods to the warehouse or a pizza delivery driver bringing someone their dinner, may be rushing to get where they need to be.

When a delivery driver cuts corners, exceeds the speed limit, or drives recklessly to meet their deadline or in hopes of a tip from their customer, they are liable for the damage caused by their negligence (and possibly punitive damages as well).

Aside from immediate negligence, systemic issues such as inadequate training or unrealistic delivery schedules enforced by companies can heighten accident risks. Addressing these factors necessitates a thorough investigation, including company records and driver logs, to establish patterns of oversight or policy failures contributing to hazardous driving conditions. This depth of analysis ensures that all aspects of the responsible party's negligence are presented.

Mail Truck Accidents

Mail delivery trucks not only spend a lot of time on the road, but they often spend that time in residential areas where there may be heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic.

If a postal carrier’s negligence causes your crash, they are liable for the damage caused, but you will need to file a unique kind of lawsuit under the Federal Tort Claims Act or 42 USC Section 1983.

Filing a lawsuit against a federal entity such as the USPS requires detailed knowledge of federal procedures and limitations. Our attorneys are experienced in navigating the complexities of these cases, ensuring compliance with strict timelines and protocol, which is essential for a successful claim. We facilitate every step, from identifying liable parties to managing intricate legal documentation, to support your pursuit of justice.

Garbage Truck Accidents

Like postal carriers, garbage trucks spend a lot of time driving in residential areas with heavy pedestrian and passenger vehicle traffic.

When a garbage truck driver’s negligence causes a crash or injury to someone, they are liable for the damage they caused.

When violations of state or federal regulations like the hours of service regulations result in injuries to other motorists, this is negligence per se, and the trucking company, driver, and others are liable for the damage they have caused.

In some cases – when the garbage truck is operated by a municipality, your lawsuit will need to be filed under the State Tort Claims Act.

Evaluating liability in garbage truck accidents involves reviewing municipal contracts and service logs, which may reveal operational deficiencies contributing to negligence. We prioritize a thorough investigation of these details, pursuing governmental accountability when evidence indicates systemic issues. Our strategic approach involves leveraging this information to improve settlement prospects or court outcomes.

Trailer Crashes

Like eighteen-wheelers and delivery truck drivers, large trucks pulling cargo trailers can cause serious damage to other motorists and pedestrians.

When a construction company hires a driver to pull a large trailer carrying structural steel, for example, an accident on the highway can result in catastrophic injuries when the truck crashes, rolls, or jackknifes.

Trailer crashes often entail complex liability issues involving multiple parties, from driver negligence to trailer maintenance failures. Our firm diligently explores all angles, including the history of trailer inspections, braking system functionality, and adherence to loading safety protocols, to deliver a robust case. We ensure each responsible party is held accountable for compounded negligence factors that escalate accident severity.

Large Truck Accidents

Any large truck accident claim is likely to be hotly contested by the insurance companies and their defense attorneys.

If you have been involved in any type of accident with a large truck, commercial truck, eighteen-wheeler, garbage truck, mail truck, or delivery truck, contact an experienced trucking accident lawyer in Summerville immediately – before you talk to the trucking company or their insurance company.

To challenge insurance companies effectively, one must understand their tactics and build a formidable case. Our proactive approach combines evidence collection with negotiations, and if needed, litigation. By crafting compelling narratives and countering misinformation with facts, we aim to maximize compensation for our clients, even against formidable insurance opposition.

Insights into Summerville's Trucking Accident Legal Landscape

Summerville, known for its scenic charm and Southern hospitality, experiences its fair share of trucking traffic due to major routes like I-26 which connect it to larger cities and industrial hubs. This influx of commercial vehicles increases the potential for accidents, often leading to severe injuries due to the massive size and weight of trucks. Navigating the legal challenges of trucking accidents in Summerville involves understanding not only the state and federal regulations but also local ordinances and the typical dynamics of these roads.

In Summerville, the legal pursuit of trucking accident claims requires a nuanced understanding of the interplay between local traffic conditions and broader regulatory frameworks. The TMW Law team brings years of experience dealing with local accident scenarios and has developed tailored strategies that leverage insights into South Carolina's unique legal landscape. Our commitment is underscored by our deep-rooted presence in the community, offering personalized advice and steadfast representation.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Summerville

Trucking accidents in Summerville occur due to a variety of factors ranging from driver error to mechanical failure. A prevalent cause is driver fatigue, especially during long hauls on South Carolina’s highways. Federal regulations mandate rest periods to prevent such fatigue, but not all drivers adhere to these rules, increasing the risk of accidents.

Another contributing factor to accidents is improper vehicle maintenance. When trucking companies fail to keep up with regular inspections and necessary repairs, they jeopardize the safety of all road users. Weather conditions also play a part, as heavy rains can make roads slick, complicating the handling of large vehicles. Understanding these causes helps inform a more comprehensive legal strategy, as it allows TMW Law to address and counter the defenses posed by trucking companies rigorously and effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents

What Should I Do If I Witness a Trucking Accident in Summerville?

If you witness a trucking accident, your first priority should be safety. Ensure you are in a safe position and call 911 to report the incident. Provide the dispatcher with accurate details about the location and any visible injuries or hazards. Remaining at the scene can also be helpful as a witness, as you might be able to provide crucial information to law enforcement and insurance companies. However, if the situation seems unsafe, it’s important to leave the area and find a secure spot from which to report the accident. Remember, your testimony could play a pivotal role in piecing together the sequence of events leading to the accident, but your personal safety should always come first.

How Are Trucking Accidents Investigated?

Trucking accident investigations typically involve multiple steps and can include officers from the local police, the South Carolina Highway Patrol, and sometimes federal agencies. The investigation centers around establishing the cause of the accident through an examination of driver logs, vehicle maintenance records, and traffic camera footage. Law enforcement will document the scene, noting skid marks, debris, and the position of involved vehicles. Our role at TMW Law is to supplement these efforts with an independent investigation to ensure no crucial detail is overlooked. This often includes working with accident reconstruction experts, reviewing trucking company compliance records, and interviewing witnesses to build a comprehensive claim.

What Legal Steps Should I Take Following a Trucking Accident?

After a trucking accident, the initial steps include seeking immediate medical attention and reporting the crash to law enforcement. It's crucial to document everything you can, from medical visits and treatments to repair bills and lost wages, as this documentation will form the foundation of your claim. Contacting TMW Law promptly ensures that your legal rights are protected from the outset. We recommend against making any statements or accepting settlements from insurance companies without legal advice, as premature agreements can limit your compensation. Our legal team will guide you through filing a personal injury claim, manage communications with insurance companies, and maintain robust advocacy to protect your rights throughout the process.

Can I Sue for Emotional Distress After a Trucking Accident?

Emotional distress is a serious consequence of trucking accidents and can include anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. In South Carolina, you are entitled to seek compensation for emotional distress if it is significant and provable. To support such claims, documentation from mental health professionals is essential, alongside evidence of how the distress impacts your daily life. At TMW Law, we understand the profound impact these incidents can have and are dedicated to helping you receive full and fair compensation. Our approach includes meticulous preparation to present a clear and compelling case that highlights your emotional suffering.

What Are the Unique Challenges of Truck Accident Litigation?

Truck accident litigation presents unique challenges due to the complex interplay of federal and state regulations, the potential for severe injuries, and the powerful legal teams often employed by trucking companies. The presence of multiple potentially liable parties, such as drivers, trucking companies, and vehicle manufacturers, adds layers to the litigation process. At TMW Law, we navigate these challenges by focusing on comprehensive investigation and expert collaboration to elucidate each case's nuances. Our goal is to challenge the well-prepared defenses of big insurance firms and secure just compensation for our clients by leveraging our extensive experience and commitment to personalized client service.

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