Truck Accident Lawyer Metairie, LA

Our Metairie, LA truck accident lawyer knows that being involved in a serious wreck can cause pain and property damage that is almost unbearable to deal with. Drivers and occupants of passenger vehicles that get into collisions with commercial trucks (like semi trucks or tractor-trailers), tend to deal with injury and financial loss that drastically affects their health and daily living. At Kiefer & Kiefer, we can come to your aid immediately. Unless we win your case, you won’t owe us anything in attorney fees, because you’re more than just a case number to us. We truly care about your rights and health, and we firmly believe that at-fault truck drivers and their negligent trucking companies should be liable for how victims have suffered due to an accident. For more information about how much your settlement could be worth, contact our team today and set up a free consultation.

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There are so many nuances to consider when it comes to truck accidents. Because of the size of such a vehicle and the weight that is being carried within, it isn’t uncommon for these incidents to have tragic consequences. If you are wondering whether your situation warrants filing a lawsuit against the truck driver, trucking company, and/or truck part product manufacturer, then now is the time to contact one of our attorneys. We can reserve you a consultation as soon as possible and then get into more detail about what has happened. During the appointment, please bring as much information as you can in the form of evidence and photographs or video footage so that we can get a good idea of what occurred. At Kiefer & Keifer, we are ready to support you. 

Reasons You Need An Attorney

Following a truck accident, it’s essential to reach out to our Metairie truck accident lawyer. Seeking legal representation can help guarantee that you or your loved one get justice. At Kiefer & Kiefer Group, our dedicated team is here to support you by lending our legal experience. Here’s why you should consider teaming up with an attorney soon after your accident: 

In-Depth Knowledge Of Federal And State Regulations

Truck accidents often involve complex regulations governed by both federal and Louisiana state laws. We understand the specific regulations that apply to commercial trucks, enabling us to build a solid case and advocate for your rights effectively.

Determining Liability In Complex Cases

It can be challenging to determine exactly what party or parties are at fault for a truck accident. Multiple parties, such as trucking companies, drivers, and maintenance providers, may share responsibility. Our experienced lawyers have a proven track record for identifying all liable parties and holding them accountable. 

Access To Accident Reconstruction Experts

Truck accidents often require a thorough analysis of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and other critical factors. Kiefer & Kiefer Group has established relationships with accident reconstruction specialists across Metairie, allowing us to gather vital evidence to strengthen your case. Our team can help make sure that we gain access to the necessary evidence that can strengthen your case.

Negotiation Skills To Maximize Your Compensation

Often, insurance companies and their agents will have a responsibility to try and get victims to accept the lowest offer possible. Our Metairie truck accident attorneys are equally skilled at negotiating with insurance companies to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. We strive to achieve a fair settlement that covers your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Litigation Representation When Negotiations Don’t Lead To Payment

If negotiations with insurance companies do not yield a satisfactory outcome, our lawyers are prepared to take your case to court. Our experienced litigators at Kiefer & Kiefer Group have a strong track record of success in the courtroom. We always fight for our clients to help ensure that they obtain the results they want or need.

When you’ve been involved in a truck accident, the importance of consulting our qualified truck accident lawyer cannot be overstated. We bring a wealth of experience, legal knowledge, and dedication to every case we handle. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a truck accident, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our attorneys are ready to provide you with the legal representation you need to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. Take action today by scheduling your free consultation. 

Truck Accident Infographic

Louisiana Truck Accident Statistics

According to national statistics, there are approximately 3,600 truck accidents in the state of Louisiana each year. Approximately 100 Louisianians die in these crashes, while another 1,600 are left with serious injuries.

Survivors of truck accidents are often left with catastrophic injuries, and the financial impact on families can be devastating. If you or a loved one has been injured, contact our office to find out what type of financial compensation you may be entitled to.

How Truck Accidents Occur

Truck accidents can result in devastating consequences due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. These accidents often occur due to a combination of factors, but certain causes are more prevalent than others. The following are some of the most common causes of truck accidents:

Driver Fatigue

Commercial truck drivers often face long hours on the road, tight delivery schedules, and pressure to cover significant distances. As a result, some drivers push themselves to the limit, foregoing rest breaks or violating federal hours-of-service regulations that mandate adequate rest periods.

Fatigued drivers are more prone to make mistakes, have slower reaction times, and may even fall asleep at the wheel, leading to accidents. To combat this issue, it’s crucial for trucking companies to promote responsible scheduling, and drivers should prioritize rest and adherence to hours-of-service rules.

Speeding And Unsafe Driving

Some truck drivers may exceed speed limits or drive too fast for road and weather conditions to meet tight delivery deadlines. These behaviors can lead to reduced control over the truck, longer braking distances, and an increased risk of accidents.

Aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating, abrupt lane changes, and road rage, can escalate conflicts on the road and result in dangerous situations.

Distracted Driving

Distractions like texting, using a smartphone, eating, or adjusting in-cab systems can divert a driver’s attention away from the road. Inattention, even for a moment, can lead to accidents, especially when operating large, heavy trucks that require careful control.

Trucking companies and drivers should prioritize safety by implementing policies that prohibit distracted driving and using hands-free devices when necessary.

Improper Loading Or Cargo Securement

When cargo is not loaded evenly or is overloaded, it can shift during transit, affecting the truck’s balance and handling. This can lead to rollovers or jackknife accidents.

Additionally, cargo that is not properly secured can become a hazard if it falls from the truck, causing accidents or blocking the roadway. Trucking companies and drivers must adhere to strict regulations regarding the proper loading and securement of cargo to prevent accidents.

Mechanical Failures And Equipment Issues

Trucks require regular maintenance to ensure that critical systems, such as brakes, tires, and steering components, are in good working order. Failure to maintain or inspect these systems can lead to accidents caused by brake failures, tire blowouts, or loss of control.

Additionally, some accidents may result from defective truck parts or equipment. Manufacturers or suppliers may be held liable for accidents caused by faulty components.

To mitigate the risk of truck accidents, trucking companies and drivers must prioritize safety and adhere to federal regulations. Regular vehicle maintenance, driver training, and adherence to hours-of-service rules are essential steps in preventing accidents. Moreover, motorists sharing the road with trucks should exercise caution, maintain safe following distances, and avoid aggressive driving behaviors when encountering large trucks.

FAQ

If you’ve recently been involved in a truck accident in Louisiana, you’re likely harboring a lot of questions and concerns. These situations can be overwhelming, and understanding your legal rights is critical. At Kiefer & Kiefer, we’re here to offer guidance, support, and answers to your most pressing questions. With extensive experience in handling truck accident cases throughout the state, we’re committed to seeking justice for our clients.

What should I do immediately after a truck accident?

Your safety and well-being should be your top priority. If you can, your first objective should be to check for any injuries and call 911 to request medical assistance. Next, if it’s safe to do so, gather essential information, including the truck driver’s details, witnesses, and photographs of the accident scene. Remember to report the incident to the police and consult with our truck accident lawyers at Kiefer & Kiefer for legal guidance.

How can a truck accident lawyer help me with my case?

Our experienced Metairie truck accident lawyer can provide next-level legal help. We will investigate your case, gather evidence, and determine liability. We will negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and, if necessary, represent you in court. Our goal is to make sure you receive fair compensation for medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

What types of compensation can I seek after a truck accident?

Following a truck accident that has occurred, there are several types of compensation that you can seek. This can include coverage for medical expenses, rehabilitation, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In cases of severe negligence or wrongful death, punitive damages may also be pursued.

How long do I have to file a truck accident claim?

The statute of limitations for truck accident claims in Louisiana typically allows victims one year from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, it’s crucial to seek legal advice as soon as possible, as evidence and witness testimonies can deteriorate over time. The sooner you work with a legal professional the sooner you can often gain compensation for your injuries.

What factors influence the amount of a truck accident settlement?

Several factors influence the amount of a truck accident settlement. The severity of injuries is a primary consideration; more severe injuries typically lead to higher settlements due to increased medical expenses and long-term care needs. The degree of fault also plays a crucial role; if the truck driver or trucking company is clearly at fault, the settlement amount may be higher. Additionally, the extent of property damage, lost wages due to an inability to work, and the impact on the victim’s quality of life are considered. In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the conduct of the truck driver or company was particularly egregious.

What’s the average truck accident settlement amount?

While there isn’t a fixed average settlement amount for truck accidents, they generally tend to be higher than settlements for regular car accidents. This is because truck accidents often result in more serious injuries and greater property damage. Settlements can range from tens of thousands to several million dollars, depending on the specifics of the case. Consulting with our attorneys can provide a more accurate estimate based on the unique circumstances of your case.

How long will it take to reach a settlement?

The time it takes to reach a settlement in a truck accident case can vary widely. Some cases may settle in a few months, while others could take several years, especially if they go to trial. Factors that affect the timeline include the complexity of the case, the extent of the injuries, the willingness of the parties to negotiate, and the legal strategies employed. Working with our experienced firm can help streamline the process and potentially expedite the settlement.

What can be done to maximize my compensation?

To maximize your truck accident settlement, it is essential to gather comprehensive evidence to support your claim. This includes medical records, police reports, witness statements, and any available video footage of the accident. It is also crucial to document your injuries and their impact on your life thoroughly. Working with our firm can significantly enhance your ability to build a strong case. Your lawyer will negotiate on your behalf, seeing that all aspects of your damages are adequately addressed and that you receive a fair settlement.

Truck Accident Glossary

When working with a Metairie, LA truck accident lawyer, it’s important that clients understand some of the legal and procedural terms commonly used in these cases. Truck accident cases often involve specialized legal language and references to procedures that are unique to commercial vehicle claims. Below, we’ve compiled a glossary that includes terms that can help make the legal process more clear and understandable.

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV)

A commercial motor vehicle is any type of vehicle used for transporting goods or passengers for compensation. This includes tractor-trailers, semi trucks, delivery trucks, and tankers. In truck accident cases, identifying a vehicle as a CMV matters because these vehicles are regulated under both federal and Louisiana laws. These regulations govern safety, maintenance, driver licensing, and hours of service. When a CMV is involved in a crash, multiple levels of regulation may apply, which can affect how the case is handled legally.

In a legal context, the status of the vehicle as a CMV can determine the responsibilities of the driver and the company that owns or operates the truck. Whether or not the vehicle was being used for commercial purposes at the time of the crash can also be relevant when calculating a potential settlement.

Hours-of-Service Regulations

Hours-of-service regulations refer to the rules established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) that limit how long a commercial truck driver can be on duty or behind the wheel without rest. These rules are designed to prevent fatigue-related accidents. For example, a property-carrying driver is limited to 11 hours of driving within a 14-hour window after coming on duty, and they must take a 10-hour break before starting another shift.

In truck accident cases, reviewing the driver’s logbooks and electronic logging device (ELD) data can help determine whether they were compliant with these regulations. Violations of hours-of-service rules can serve as supporting evidence that a driver may have been fatigued or overworked at the time of the incident.

Cargo Securement Standards

Cargo securement standards describe the federal safety requirements for loading and securing cargo in or on commercial trucks. These standards are designed to prevent cargo from shifting or falling during transport, which can lead to serious roadway accidents, especially rollovers or jackknife situations. Federal regulations specify the type and number of tie-downs, blocking mechanisms, and procedures that must be followed depending on the size and type of cargo.

Truck accident lawyers often examine whether cargo was properly secured when investigating causes of a crash. If the cargo was improperly loaded or if securement equipment failed, the loading company, the driver, or the carrier could be held responsible for the consequences.

Accident Reconstruction

Accident reconstruction is the process of investigating and analyzing the circumstances surrounding a crash to determine what happened and why. This is usually done by trained professionals who use physical evidence from the accident scene, such as skid marks, vehicle damage, and video footage, to recreate the event. In truck accident claims, reconstruction is particularly useful because of the size and complexity of the vehicles involved and the severe consequences that often result.

This kind of analysis can uncover whether a mechanical failure occurred, whether a driver had time to react, or whether traffic violations were committed. The findings of an accident reconstruction expert often play a key role in settlement negotiations or court proceedings.

Commercial Carrier Responsibility

Commercial carrier responsibility refers to the legal and operational obligations of a company that owns or operates trucks used for transporting goods. These responsibilities can include hiring qualified drivers, performing regular vehicle inspections, maintaining vehicles according to safety standards, and following FMCSA guidelines.

If a commercial carrier fails to meet these obligations and an accident occurs, they may be legally accountable. Evidence such as maintenance logs, hiring records, and driver supervision protocols are often reviewed to assess whether the company contributed to the cause of the accident through poor management or oversight.

At Kiefer & Kiefer, we work directly with clients in Metairie and across Louisiana to clarify every step of the legal process following a truck accident. By explaining legal terms and procedures in plain language, we make sure our clients feel informed and prepared throughout their case. If you’ve been involved in a crash with a commercial vehicle, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Let’s talk about your case during a free consultation. Contact our firm today to learn how we can help.

Kiefer & Kiefer, Metairie Truck Accident Lawyer

1100 Poydras Street., Suite 1300 New Orleans, LA 70163

Get Legal Assistance From Our Dedicated Firm

When truck accidents do occur, victims may have the legal right to pursue compensation for their injuries and losses through a personal injury claim. Consulting with our experienced personal injury team can help victims understand their rights and seek justice and compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages. Call Kiefer & Kiefer to schedule a free case evaluation.

Truck accident settlements can vary significantly based on numerous factors, including the severity of injuries and the degree of fault. Understanding these elements and working with a skilled lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and achieve a fair settlement. If you or a loved one has been involved in a crash, consulting with our Metairie truck accident lawyer is crucial. Contact Kiefer & Kiefer today. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of the process and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.