You’re on I-26, driving home from work, when suddenly a massive tractor-trailer swerves into your lane, slamming into your car. Or you’re at a red light, and a delivery truck barrels into your rear bumper because the driver was checking their phone.
Because these vehicles are much larger and heavier than passenger cars, they tend to cause more severe damage, leaving victims with high medical bills, lost income, and long-term recovery needs.
At Lesemann & Associates, our experienced truck accident attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process, hold the responsible parties accountable, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Accidents involving commercial trucks like 18-wheelers, delivery vans, or construction vehicles, are more complex than typical car accidents. Here’s why:
Multiple Liable Parties: Depending on the case, liability could rest not only with the truck driver but also with the trucking company, cargo loader, or maintenance provider.
Federal and State Regulations: Trucking companies and drivers must follow strict safety laws regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and South Carolina state laws. Violations, such as driving longer than permitted hours, can make the company liable.
Severe Injuries and Damages: The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks often result in catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord injuries, and broken bones.
If you’re involved in an accident with a commercial truck, follow these steps to protect your health and legal rights:
Call 911 and Report the Accident: Always report the accident to law enforcement. In South Carolina, you are required to report any accident that results in injury or significant property damage. The police report will also serve as evidence for your claim.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even if you feel okay, injuries like whiplash or internal trauma may appear later. Seeking prompt medical care not only protects your health but also documents your injuries, which strengthens your case.
Gather Evidence at the Scene: If possible, take photos of the vehicles, the accident scene, and any visible injuries. Get contact information from witnesses and the truck driver. If the truck is part of a larger fleet, note the company name and any identifying information on the vehicle.
Contact Your Insurance Provider: Notify your insurer about the accident, but don’t provide a recorded statement without consulting an attorney. Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your payout or shift blame to you.
Consult a Charleston Truck Accident Attorney: Trucking companies often have teams of lawyers and insurers working to reduce their liability. An experienced attorney from Lesemann & Associates will investigate the accident, identify all responsible parties, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Charleston, SC, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Lesemann & Associates today for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys will review your case, explain your options, and develop a strategy to help you recover the compensation you deserve. Let us be your trusted partner in the fight for justice.
