Sterling Heights Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accidents in Sterling Heights, Michigan, can be devastating, saddling their victims with severe injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. Pursuing a lawsuit after a truck accident requires a knowledgeable and experienced attorney. At Sommers Schwartz, we understand how to manage complex truck accident litigation. We are committed to helping you secure the compensation you deserve.

Dangers of Truck Accidents in Sterling Heights

In Sterling Heights, truck accidents can occur on busy highways, bustling city streets, or even in more rural areas. These incidents can result in catastrophic injuries or even fatalities. In 2023, heavy trucks were involved in 6 percent of fatal crashes and 2.9 percent of injury crashes in Michigan.

Truck drivers often work long hours under tight deadlines, which can lead them to drive when dangerously fatigued and in hazardous weather conditions. Additionally, trucking companies may prioritize profits over safety, turning a blind eye to overloaded trucks or cutting corners on vehicle maintenance.

Truckers traveling through Sterling Heights must comply with both federal and state regulations. Navigating this dual layer of legalities can be complex and overwhelming for accident victims. Hiring an experienced Sterling Heights truck accident lawyer is the best way to preserve your rights after an accident and recover full compensation for your injuries.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Sterling Heights

Understanding some of the common causes of Sterling Heights truck accidents can help victims and their families recognize situations that may indicate negligence. Often, accidents result from a combination of factors.

• Driver fatigue is among the top causes of truck accidents. Fatigue can decrease reaction times and impair a driver’s decision-making abilities, heightening the risk of collisions.
• Driver impairment is another significant cause of accidents. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is dangerous and illegal. Even over-the-counter medications can impair a driver’s response time or cause drowsiness.
• Distracted driving can be as dangerous as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Mobile devices and other in-cab distractions can take a truck driver’s attention away from the road at critical moments.
• Other negligent driving behaviors also contribute to accidents. In 2023, 3.4 percent of Michigan heavy truck accidents involved speeding, 5.9 percent involved improper lane use, and 6.6 percent involved a driver’s failure to yield.
• Brake failures, worn-out tires, and other mechanical issues can also cause crashes. These issues can caused by inherent product defects, improper maintenance, or inadequate oversight by the driver or truck owner.
• Improperly loaded or secured cargo can shift during transport, affecting vehicle stability and control.
• Weather conditions like snow, ice, and heavy rain can make driving treacherous. Hazardous road conditions can challenge even the most skilled, professional drivers and exacerbate the dangers posed by any mechanical deficiencies.

A knowledgeable Sterling Heights truck accident attorney can investigate the facts and retain experts to determine the cause of an accident. Identifying all the factors that contributed to an accident is one of the first steps to holding the responsible parties accountable.

Truck Accident Injuries

Because of commercial vehicles’ immense size and speed, collisions often cause catastrophic injuries. Head impacts commonly cause traumatic brain injuries, which can lead to memory loss, cognitive impairment, or permanent brain damage. Spinal cord injuries can lead to life-altering disabilities, including paralysis.

Other common injuries include broken bones, internal bleeding, organ damage, lacerations, and amputations. Many Sterling Heights truck accident victims also suffer psychological harm, including post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety. Their injuries can require extensive medical care and long-term rehabilitation. They often result in permanent disability along with significant financial and emotional burdens.

The Importance of Hiring a Truck Accident Attorney

A lawsuit for truck accident injuries is much more complex than one for personal injuries after a fender-bender. These lawsuits often involve multiple parties and their insurance companies, which have vast resources at their disposal to vigorously defend claims. It may be necessary to pursue your claim in a federal court district far from your home, depending on the circumstances of the accident and the parties named as defendants.

A proficient truck accident attorney in Sterling Heights brings invaluable experience to your case. They understand the nuances of trucking regulations and are adept at identifying all potentially liable parties. Did the trucking company fail to maintain its fleet? Was the driver operating under the influence of fatigue? An attorney knows the critical questions to ask and the best ways to identify the true causes of a crash.

Moreover, engaging a lawyer helps protect your rights. Insurance companies may try to settle quickly, often offering less than you deserve. A Sterling Heights truck accident attorney can negotiate on your behalf, striving for a settlement that reflects the damages suffered. If necessary, they are prepared to take your case to court, advocating vigorously for your interests.

Steps to Take Following a Truck Accident

Knowing what to do in the chaotic aftermath of a collision can be daunting. Yet, every action you take can impact your ability to claim compensation. First and foremost, ensure the safety and health of everyone involved. Call for medical assistance immediately, even if injuries seem minor.

Once medical needs are addressed, document the accident scene. Take photographs of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses, as their statements can be crucial in corroborating your account of the incident.

It is also essential to report the truck accident to law enforcement. A police report can provide an official account, which can be vital evidence for your claim.

Next, contact a Sterling Heights truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. They can guide you through the process, advising on what to say (and not to say) to insurance adjusters and other involved parties. Time is of the essence, as evidence can be lost, and memories can fade.

How a Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help You

Enlisting​ the support of a Sterling Heights truck accident lawyer goes beyond mere legal representation. At Sommers Schwartz, we prioritize your recovery, aiming to alleviate the burdens of the claims process while you focus on healing.

Our attorneys conduct thorough investigations, gathering evidence like driver logs, maintenance records, and eyewitness testimonies to build a robust case. We collaborate with experts in accident reconstruction to accurately understand the dynamics of the incident.

We communicate with insurance companies, ensuring they treat your case with the seriousness it deserves. Our negotiation skills aim to secure a settlement that covers medical costs, lost wages, emotional distress, and any future rehabilitation costs.

Should litigation become necessary, we are prepared to advocate for you in court. Our experience in Michigan truck accident law ensures we present a compelling argument, striving for justice and maximum compensation for our clients.

Time Limit for Filing a Sterling Heights Truck Accident Claim

In Michigan, the statute of limitations for filing a truck accident claim is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, specific circumstances could alter this timeframe, such as if a government entity is involved. It is essential to consult with a Sterling Heights truck accident attorney promptly to ensure all deadlines are met. Delaying legal action can result in losing crucial evidence and potentially weaken your case.

Truck Accident FAQs

1. What should I say if the trucking company’s insurance firm reaches out after an accident?

If the trucking company’s insurance contacts you, being cautious about what you say is crucial. Insurance companies may attempt to downplay their liability by obtaining statements that could undermine your claim. Politely inform them that you have legal representation and direct all communications through your Sterling Heights truck accident lawyer. This ensures you do not inadvertently say something that could harm your case.

2. Can I still file a claim if I share partial responsibility for the truck accident?

Yes, you may still be able to file a claim even if you were partially at fault for the accident. Michigan follows the comparative negligence rule, which means your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if you are found to be 20 percent at fault, your compensation would be reduced by that percentage. A skilled Sterling Heights truck accident lawyer can help evaluate the circumstances of your case and work to minimize any assigned fault, ensuring you receive fair compensation.

Contact a Sterling Heights Truck Accident Attorney for Immediate Assistance with Your Claim

If you have been injured in a Sterling Heights truck accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. The skilled truck accident attorneys at Sommers Schwartz are ready to fight for maximum compensation in your case. With extensive experience handling complex truck accident claims, our team understands the challenges you face and is here to guide you through every stage.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation, and let us evaluate your case. Because we work on a contingency basis, there are no upfront costs. We only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for your truck accident claim. Call us today at 800-783-0989 to learn more.