Santa Cruz Truck Accident Lawyer
Transport trucks are necessary for the economy, but these massive vehicles can be involved in a crash just like any other on the road. Truck accidents will cause much more serious injuries than other collisions. When fully loaded, a transport truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Even when empty, a truck will weigh approximately 40,000 pounds, which is far more than passenger vehicles. A collision involving a truck will result in catastrophic injuries for those in the smaller vehicle. If you have been hurt, you can file a claim for damages, the legal term for financial compensation. Going up against the big trucking companies and their insurers is never easy, though. Our Santa Cruz truck accident lawyer can make sure you receive the full and fair damages to which you are entitled.
A Truck Accident Can Cause Catastrophic InjuriesA catastrophic injury is defined as one that prohibits someone from obtaining gainful employment and performing simple daily tasks. Some of the most common catastrophic injuries sustained during truck accidents are as follows:
- Spinal cord injuries: Paralysis is not uncommon after a truck accident. Even spinal cord injuries that are not as serious, including herniated discs, can impact a victim for months or years after a crash.
- Traumatic brain injuries: Traumatic brain injuries, also known as TBIs, include contusions, concussions, and contrecoup injuries. These injuries are some of the most serious and can impact an accident victim’s cognitive abilities for years to come.
- External injuries: External injuries include any injury that is visible on the body. Burns, deep bruises, and lacerations are some of the most common external injuries.
- Injuries to extremities: Truck accidents happen at great force, often causing the extremities to become crushed or otherwise injured.
If you have suffered catastrophic injuries due to someone else’s negligence, a truck accident attorney in Santa Cruz can help you pursue the damages to which you are entitled.
Determining Liability for a Truck AccidentThe vast majority of truck accidents are caused by another party’s negligence and there are many entities who can be to blame for a single crash. Liability for a truck accident often lies with one or more of the following:
- Truck drivers: Truck drivers are liable for a crash when they fail to pay attention to the road or when they drive while impaired, distracted, or fatigued. Other acts of negligence by a truck driver can also result in a truck accident.
- Trucking companies: Trucking companies that engage in negligent hiring or training practices, fail to inspect or maintain their vehicles, or otherwise act carelessly can be held liable for a crash.
- Loading companies: Third party companies are responsible for loading cargo onto a truck properly. When they fail to do so, the cargo can shift and throw the entire truck off balance, which makes it very difficult for the truck driver to control the vehicle.
- Manufacturers: Manufacturers of trucks and truck parts must ensure their products are safe and free of flaws. When they fail to do this, they can be held liable.
It is important to determine who was liable for your truck accident so you can hold them accountable for paying the full and fair damages you deserve. However, determining liability is not easy. At Brod Law Firm, our Santa Cruz truck accident attorney can identify all liable parties and help you through the entire process of filing a claim. Call us now at (800) 427-7020 or contact us online to schedule a free review of your case.