Some of the most tragic accidents on the roads of Kentucky involve semi-trucks and commercial vehicles. They are the largest vehicles on the roads by length and weight and even a minor accident with one can change your life forever. It is important that you consult a commercial vehicle accident attorney when injured in an accident with a commercial vehicle or tractor-trailer. You might be able to seek compensation for your injuries from a number of people. Let’s explore six things you probably didn’t know about commercial vehicle accidents in today’s post.
Even though it is the law, many people do not know that truck drivers are not permitted to drive for more than 11 hours in a 14-hour period. This driving requirement is not permitted unless the driver has been off-duty for a period of 10 hours beforehand.
Aside from claiming losses for medical expenses and lost wages, you might be eligible to seek compensation for other areas in a personal injury case. These other areas include pain and suffering, mental anguish, physical disfigurement, limitations, physical pain and more.
It is possible that the accident in which you were involved was caused by the intentional conduct of the truck driver. Intentional conduct includes, but is not limited to, driving under the influence, texting while driving, road rage and trying to run other drivers off the road. All of these actions can be deemed intentional and can lead to liability in most accident cases.
The statute of limitations in Kentucky for accidents involving cars, SUVs, commercial trucks and all types of motor vehicles is two years from the date of your last PIP payment. PIP is short for personal injury protection. Your vehicle must have this coverage on it for the statute of limitations to be two years. If it doesn’t the statute of limitations will be one year from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. As with any type of legal case, it is best to seek the help of an experienced attorney.
Be sure to remain silent after the truck accident. Do not speak to the trucking company’s insurance carrier or their lawyer. You need to talk to your own lawyer before answering anyone’s questions. Truck drivers might try to place the blame for the accident on you. Even answering the most innocent of questions can hurt your chances of receiving compensation. Staying silent is your best option when looking at what to do after a commercial vehicle accident in Kentucky.
An attorney can help you build a case against the truck driver, the trucking company, the shipper and other entities involved in the crash. An attorney will collect evidence, interview witnesses, obtain police reports, hire expert witnesses and review your medical records. An attorney will also handle all communication with the truck company’s insurance carrier and attorney so you can focus on rehabbing your injury.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident with a semi-truck or a commercial vehicle, it is in your best interest to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney about your case. Injuries suffered in these types of accidents can be traumatic. You deserve compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages and more. Call Maze Law Offices to schedule a consultation today with a commercial vehicle accident attorney.
