Accidents involving delivery trucks often result in significant property damage and serious personal injuries, requiring the help of a skilled Columbia delivery truck accident lawyer. At Shelly Leeke Law Firm, we have over a decade of experience representing victims of delivery truck accidents, offering comprehensive legal support to help them obtain the compensation they deserve. With the help of a skilled Columbia truck accident lawyer from our firm, you can maximize your chances of obtaining maximum compensation for your damages if you were hurt in an accident with a delivery truck.
Determining Liability in a Delivery Truck Accident
Our experienced Columbia delivery truck accident lawyers will collect and review crucial evidence to determine the party liable for your injuries. We will pursue maximum compensation from those responsible so you can focus on your recovery. Our Columbia personal injury lawyers have recovered millions in damages for our clients and are ready to help you.
Liability is one of the primary ways truck accidents differ from car accidents. Determining liability in a delivery truck accident can be complex, as multiple parties may be involved. Potentially liable parties include:
- The truck driver: Factors such as speeding, distracted driving, or fatigue can establish liability on the driver’s part.
- The trucking company: The trucking company that employs the driver may be liable if the driver acted within the scope of their employment or if it failed to maintain the vehicle or ensure proper driver training.
- Vehicle manufacturer: The vehicle manufacturer may be liable if a mechanical failure or defect in the truck contributed to the accident.
- Maintenance providers: Companies responsible for maintaining the truck may be accountable if poor maintenance contributed to the accident.
- Cargo loaders: Improperly loaded cargo can lead to accidents, making cargo loaders potentially liable.
Understanding the Complexities of Delivery Truck Accidents
Delivery truck accidents are particularly challenging due to the inherent risks associated with these large commercial vehicles. These trucks are significantly heavier and larger than standard passenger cars, with approximate vehicle weights of six tons, which can amplify the impact of collisions and lead to more severe injuries and damages. Understanding the unique aspects of delivery truck accidents is crucial for effectively addressing the legal and insurance issues that arise.
Causes of Delivery Truck Accidents
Delivery truck accidents often involve unique legal and factual challenges. Our delivery truck accident attorneys in Columbia thoroughly understand the factors contributing to these accidents. Common causes of delivery truck accidents include:
- Driver fatigue: Fatigue is a significant factor in many delivery truck accidents. Long hours on the road and tight delivery schedules can lead to driver exhaustion, impairing their ability to react quickly and make sound decisions and increasing the risk of accidents.
- Mechanical failures: Delivery trucks are complex vehicles with numerous components that require regular maintenance to ensure safe operation. Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, or engine issues, can lead to accidents if not addressed promptly.
- Improper loading: How cargo is loaded onto a delivery truck can significantly impact its stability and handling. Improperly loaded cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable and potentially leading to loss of control and accidents.
- Distracted driving: Distractions are common for all drivers, including those operating delivery trucks. Mobile phones, in-cab technology, and other distractions can divert a driver’s attention from the road, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Speeding: Delivery schedules often pressure drivers to exceed speed limits to meet deadlines. Speeding reduces the driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions and increases the severity of accidents.
- Poor vehicle maintenance: Regular maintenance is vital for the safe operation of delivery trucks. Failure to perform routine maintenance, such as checking brakes, tires, and other critical components, can result in mechanical issues that lead to accidents.
- Weather conditions: Adverse weather conditions, such as rain or fog, can affect visibility and road traction. Drivers must adjust their driving practices to account for these conditions, but failure to do so can increase the risk of accidents.
You may have legal recourse if a delivery truck accident caused by another party’s negligence injured you. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Columbia delivery truck accident attorney. We will review the details of your collision and injuries to determine whether you have a potential compensation claim.
Common Injuries in Delivery Truck Accidents
Delivery truck accidents often result in severe injuries due to the force and impact involved. These injuries can cause extreme physical and financial hardship. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Internal bleeding
- Organ damage
- Sprains and strains
- Whiplash
The South Carolina truck accident statistics are alarming. Collisions involving delivery trucks and other large commercial vehicles claim the lives of nearly 1,000 individuals annually. Our delivery truck accident lawyers in Columbia can help you pursue maximum compensation for your losses if you have lost a loved one or sustained injuries in a delivery truck accident in Columbia.
Insurance Claims in Delivery Truck Accidents
As mentioned, delivery truck accidents often involve unique legal and factual challenges. One of the most challenging aspects of these collisions involves insurance claims. Insurance claims following a delivery truck accident can be complex due to the involvement of multiple insurance policies and include these key considerations:
- Commercial insurance: Commercial auto insurance covers delivery trucks and typically has higher limits than personal auto insurance. Understanding the details of commercial insurance policies is crucial for maximizing compensation.
- Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage: If the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance coverage, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can provide additional compensation. This coverage is essential for protecting against inadequate insurance limits.
- Claims process: Filing claims and negotiating with insurance companies requires careful handling. Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts, making it essential to have experienced legal representation from Shelly Leeke Law Firm to increase your chances of recovering fair compensation.
Statute of Limitations for Columbia Delivery Truck Accidents
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in South Carolina, including those arising from delivery truck accidents, is generally three years from the accident date. Under § 15-3-530 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, you have three years to file a lawsuit against the responsible parties. If you do not file your claim within this period, the court can dismiss your case, and you can lose the right to seek compensation.
Your Recovery Is Our Priority
Each Columbia delivery truck accident attorney at Shelly Leeke Law Firm understands the physical and emotional toll a delivery truck accident can take on you and your family. We focus on helping you recover the compensation you need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we provide compassionate and effective legal representation to victims in Columbia and throughout South Carolina.
