Westland Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accidents are some of the most dangerous and devastating Michigan roadway incidents. They often cause severe injuries and tragic losses. Because of the size and weight of commercial trucks, truck accidents can be far more deadly than typical car crashes.

Under Michigan law, truck accident cases require specialized knowledge of both state laws and federal regulations. These laws can affect how liability is determined and how victims can recover compensation. If you’ve been in a truck accident in Westland, hiring an attorney who understands how these laws apply to your case is essential.

At Sommers Schwartz, we’ve been fighting for victims of truck accidents for decades, and we know what it takes to get justice for our clients. Trucking companies and insurers often put profits before safety, but we are committed to holding them accountable when their negligence leads to injuries or wrongful death. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you recover the compensation you deserve.

The Dangers of Truck Accidents in Michigan

Michigan laws govern how truck drivers and trucking companies must operate. When owners and operators ignore or shortcut these regulations, the consequences can be deadly. Accidents involving large trucks often cause catastrophic damage and leave victims with life-altering injuries.

In 2023, 71,085 people were injured in Michigan traffic crashes, an increase of 804 injuries compared to 2022. Truck accidents contribute heavily to these numbers due to the severity of the crashes they cause.

Common Types of Truck Accidents in Westland, MI

Truck accidents occur in various ways, and the type of crash often dictates the kind of legal claim that may follow. Some of the most frequent types include:

• Rear-end collisions. Trucks have a longer stopping distance than passenger cars, increasing the chances of rear-end collisions.
• Jackknifing. A truck can jackknife, causing its trailer to swing out and form an angle with the cab. The driver may lose control, leading to a multi-vehicle pileup.
• Underride accidents. Smaller vehicles may slide beneath the truck’s trailer, leading to severe injuries or fatalities.
• Rollover crashes. Trucks are at higher risk for rolling over than passenger cars, especially when they take turns too quickly or if their loads are improperly distributed.

Each of these accidents can lead to severe consequences and extensive financial damages.

Michigan Trucking Laws and How They Affect Your Case

Truck drivers and their companies must comply with strict state and federal regulations. These rules govern everything from how long drivers can be on the road to how to properly secure cargo and how often vehicles need maintenance. When an accident occurs, a skilled attorney may be able to establish fault by showing violations of these regulations. Trucking companies may be liable if they prioritize profit over safety by encouraging drivers to exceed legal service hours or failing to maintain their fleet.

In 2023, Michigan saw a slight decrease in traffic fatalities (1,095 compared to 1,123 in 2022). However, the number of injury crashes (51,097) remained nearly identical, showing that the risks remain consistent on Michigan’s roads. Truck accidents play a significant role in these numbers due to the increased potential for catastrophic injury when a truck is involved.

Who May Be Liable in a Westland Truck Accident?

Many parties can be liable for a truck accident. The truck driver, trucking company, and maintenance providers may share liability. Even manufacturers may be liable if a defect contributed to causing the accident. Because of this, it takes time, tenacity, and experience to determine fault and recover compensation. Identifying all potential at-fault parties is critical to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Westland Truck Accidents

Many truck accidents involve negligence or violations of safety regulations, while others may be unavoidable. The most common causes include:

• Driver fatigue. Fatigue is a leading cause of accidents. Federal regulations limit driving hours, but violations can and do occur when truck drivers are pressured to meet tight deadlines.
• Distracted driving. Drivers who use cell phones, eat, or adjust controls while driving put themselves and others at risk.
• Improper cargo loading. Improperly secured cargo can shift during transport, causing the driver to lose control.
• Mechanical failures. Brake failures, tire blowouts, or other mechanical issues can result in accidents. These sometimes result from improper maintenance or product defects.

How Truck Accidents Happen on Michigan Roadways

Michigan’s highways, including I-94, I-75, and US-23, are heavily traveled by large commercial trucks. Due to the volume of vehicles and the long stretches of highway where drivers may become fatigued, these high-traffic corridors are known for truck-related accidents.

For instance, the sharp curves and high speeds on I-75 cause many rollover accidents when drivers lose control. Multiple rear-end truck collisions occur on US-23, especially during peak traffic hours when trucks struggle to stop quickly in congested areas. Michigan’s harsh winter weather also contributes to truck accidents. Snowy and icy conditions on I-96 and M-59 can make it difficult for trucks to maintain control, leading to jackknife accidents and multi-vehicle pileups.

Steps To Take After a Truck Accident in Westland

After a truck accident, knowing what to do can help you protect your legal rights and improve your chances of receiving compensation. Here’s what you should do if you’re involved in a truck accident:

• Seek immediate medical attention. Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention as soon as possible after an accident. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
• Document the scene. Take photos or videos of the accident. Document any vehicle damage, the scene of the accident and road conditions, and any injuries you sustained.
• Gather information. Obtain contact information and insurance details from the truck driver, any other drivers involved in the crash, and any witnesses to the accident.
• File a police report. Ensure someone contacts law enforcement and files an official accident report.
• Speak with a truck accident lawyer. Contacting an attorney as soon as possible ensures evidence is preserved and helps protect your rights.

Acting quickly after an accident can significantly impact the outcome of your claim, especially in complex cases involving trucking companies and their insurers.

Michigan Insurance Laws and Truck Accident Claims

Michigan’s no-fault insurance system covers medical expenses and lost wages when you’re involved in an accident, no matter who is responsible. However, these benefits may not cover your full damages in serious truck accidents. Commercial trucking companies must carry significant liability policies to provide additional compensation for victims.

Many truck accident victims find that their no-fault insurance benefits are quickly exhausted, and they need to pursue claims against the trucking company’s insurance for further compensation. Unfortunately, obtaining this compensation can be challenging, especially when the trucking company’s insurance adjusters are involved.

Types of Insurance Coverage in Truck Accident Cases

Trucking companies must carry numerous insurance policies to protect themselves and their drivers. These include:

• Liability insurance. These policies cover injuries and property damage caused by the truck driver’s negligence.
• Cargo insurance. This coverage protects against damage to the goods being transported.
• Physical damage insurance. These policies cover repairs to the truck itself in the event of an accident.

Understanding which policies apply to your accident is key to maximizing your compensation. A skilled attorney can review the insurance coverage and determine the best course of action to pursue to recover fully for your injuries and losses.

The Importance of Westland Truck Accident Investigations

Unlike regular car accidents, truck accidents often involve complex issues like violations of federal regulations or mechanical component failures. Investigating these factors requires detailed knowledge, experience, and resources.

At Sommers Schwartz, we know how to build a strong case on your behalf. This often includes reviewing the truck’s maintenance logs, gathering evidence from the scene, and working with accident reconstruction experts. Conducting a thorough investigation is vital to the litigation process and helps ensure all responsible parties are held accountable.

Speak With a Dedicated Westland Truck Accident Attorney About Your Case Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t delay–contact an experienced Westland truck accident lawyer. At Sommers Schwartz, P.C., we have extensive hands-on experience recovering compensation for truck accident victims and their loved ones. We take pride in ensuring that the recovery process for our clients is as easy as possible. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.