Commercial Trucking Accident Lawyers In Littleton

Representing 18-Wheeler Accident Victims Across Colorado

One of the most terrifying experiences any automobile or motorcycle driver can endure is an accident with a semi-truck. Because commercial trucks are massive and sometimes unstable, many of these auto accidents result in the driver of the smaller vehicle being severely injured or killed.

Unfortunately, these collisions are all too common on our roads and interstates today. In 2019, Business Insider listed Colorado as one of the most dangerous states to drive in according to U.S. truckers. Our Littleton commercial trucking accident attorneys at Curtis | Walton Law can represent you if you’ve been involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler.

Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with an experienced truck accident lawyer. We proudly serve Littleton, Englewood, & the surrounding area! We are even willing to come to you!

Understanding Big Rig Accidents in Littleton

Big rig accidents in Littleton, CO, can have serious consequences, with these large vehicles often causing significant damage due to their sheer size and weight. Navigating the aftermath of such accidents involves understanding local laws, as Littleton lies within Jefferson and Arapahoe counties, each with specific regulations that may impact how cases are handled. Engaging with local authorities such as the Littleton Police Department and the Colorado Department of Transportation can aid in gathering necessary evidence and understanding jurisdictional nuances.

When dealing with big rig accidents, the presence of major roadways like US-85 and the I-25 corridor plays a critical role. These routes are prone to heavy traffic and increased risk of accidents, particularly given that large trucks often operate under tight schedules that can lead to driver fatigue and other risks. At Curtis | Walton Law, we are intricately familiar with these local challenges, providing us with the insight necessary to effectively advocate for clients involved in big rig accidents.

Identifying the Causes of Semi-Truck Collisions

Trucks are large and imposing, yet surprisingly susceptible to crashes. Their bulk creates sizable blind spots, cargo can shift if improperly loaded causing the trailer to flip, and driver fatigue is common thanks to strict delivery deadlines. These only scratch the surface as to what can go wrong.

Understanding these underlying causes is crucial for prevention and for building a strong legal case if an accident occurs. Moreover, maintaining up-to-date maintenance records, ensuring proper loading practices, and enforcing rest periods for drivers are vital measures. Rigorous adherence to these factors can substantially mitigate the risk of accidents. However, when an accident occurs, pinpointing the exact cause is essential to ensuring the right parties are held accountable.

There are many other factors that can potentially cause a truck accident, including:

• Another vehicle suddenly cutting into the truck’s lane
• Dangerous road conditions due to poor maintenance or inclement weather
• Driver fatigue
• Eating while driving
• Talking or texting on a cell phone while driving
• The truck driver changing the radio station while driving
• Foreign objects on the highway
• Improper driver training or inexperience driving a truck
• Improper truck maneuvering
• Lane drifting, either caused by the truck or another vehicle
• Loss of control of the truck, due to an event such as a tire blowout
• Shifting cargo
• Speeding
• Usage of drugs or alcohol
• Vehicle failure, such as an engine malfunction or mirror mishap

Because truck accidents can be caused by so many different factors, it can be difficult to determine who is at fault. This is where our legal support comes into play. We delve into accident reports, consult with industry experts, and leave no stone unturned to build a compelling case that correctly identifies the responsible parties. Our comprehensive approach ensures that our clients receive the thorough representation needed during these complex investigations.

Determining Liability in Trucking Accidents

An injury case involving an accident with a semi-truck will present some unique issues. One of the most challenging aspects is untangling the liability web. Semi-truck accidents often involve multiple stakeholders such as the driver, trucking company, and sometimes the truck's manufacturer or a maintenance provider. 

Understanding the dynamics between these parties is crucial for determining liability. Additionally, gathering evidence like driver logs, maintenance records, and electronic monitoring data plays a pivotal role in establishing the facts of the case.

Understanding Commercial Trucking Regulations

First, semi-truck operators must follow numerous federal and state regulations. For example, how much weight a rig can haul, how long a driver can go without rest, and quality control in manufacturing and repair are just a small fraction of the kinds of conduct regulated in the trucking business.

These regulations are designed to protect all road users. Our firm keeps abreast of these regulatory requirements and uses them to fortify your case. Violations such as overloading a truck or exceeding regulated driving hours can be substantial factors in legal proceedings, and identifying such breaches can enhance the strength of an injury claim. Our in-depth understanding of these regulations aids in identifying procedural lapses that might have contributed to an accident.

Secondly, commercial vehicles are required to carry insurance with higher limits than non-commercial drivers. For this reason, a person injured by a semi-truck driver often has a better chance of reaching a settlement amount that properly compensates the person, versus the generally lower insurance coverage available in a “standard” car accident.

Lastly, parties other than the semi-truck driver, such as the company that hired the driver, may also have a financial responsibility to compensate the injured person. Our firm meticulously investigates each case to ensure that all liable parties are held accountable. This might involve examining contractual agreements between the driver and the trucking company, as well as evaluating the role of third-party contractors in maintenance and repairs.

Colorado's Truck Driving Time Regulations

According to the Colorado General Assembly, commercial truckers are limited to driving up to 11 hours a day as part of their 14-hour 'on duty' period (Hours of Service Laws).

This law also mandates the following for commercial drivers:

• They must take 10 hours off duty after driving for 11 hours
• They may not be on duty for more than 60 hours in 7 consecutive days, or 70 hours in 8 consecutive days

If you believe that your accident was caused by a truck driver's disregard for Colorado hour restrictions, you may have a case. Contact our firm today!

These specific regulations play a significant role in determining fault. When these rules are violated, it suggests negligence on the part of the driver or the trucking company. Our firm is adept at investigating these breaches. We make sure that such crucial evidence is gathered and used to underpin your case effectively, increasing the chance of a favorable outcome. Successfully navigating the complexities of these regulations is often the turning point in a trucking accident case.

The Importance of Immediate Legal Action

In the wake of a big rig accident, taking immediate legal action is crucial. Evidence gathered promptly after an incident can significantly affect the outcome of your case. Early steps include collecting photographic evidence of the scene, obtaining witness statements, and requiring a detailed police report. Engaging legal representation quickly can facilitate these processes, ensuring that all relevant information is preserved. At Curtis | Walton Law, our proactive approach ensures that nothing is overlooked.

Additionally, Colorado laws impose time constraints on filing personal injury lawsuits. Being aware of these statutes of limitations is vital to ensure your case is sustained in court. Our legal team aids in navigating these deadlines and prepares your case in a timely manner. Prompt action not only helps preserve crucial evidence but also allows our attorneys to strategize effectively, enhancing the likelihood of securing just compensation for your injuries and losses.

Navigating the Aftermath of a Truck Accident

When a person is injured in a trucking accident, it can take months to completely assess all the person’s injuries. At that point, the person may need surgery or other extensive future treatment.

Yet, these injuries may leave the person permanently impaired, even after corrective surgery. Therefore, the true value of a claim can only be assessed after a firm prognosis has been established by medical providers.

With such large insurance coverage policies at stake, the trucking company's insurance carrier will quickly try to limit the recovery of the injured person. Accordingly, these companies have established procedures for handling commercial trucking claims, especially in the early stages of the claim.

Oftentimes, an insurance company will try to quickly settle a case for an amount far less than what the plaintiff actually deserves. This is an unjust trap, which an injured person needs to avoid—while already dealing with their wounds, trauma, and other misfortunes.

It's critical to approach the aftermath of a trucking accident with strategic legal guidance. Insurance companies often employ tactics that may seem straightforward but are aimed at saving them money. This is where having experienced legal representation becomes invaluable. We take proactive steps to ensure no part of your suffering is overlooked when negotiating with insurers. By conducting a detailed assessment of immediate and future medical needs and considering pain and suffering, lost wages, and loss of enjoyment of life, we craft a comprehensive claim that reflects your true damages.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do Immediately After a Big Rig Accident?

In the immediate aftermath of a big rig accident, your safety is paramount. Ensure that you move to a safe location, away from traffic, and check for injuries. It is crucial to call 911 so that medical assistance and law enforcement are dispatched to the scene. Gathering information from the driver of the rig, as well as any eyewitnesses, is also important. Make sure to collect details such as the truck's license plate number, the name of the trucking company, and contact information for any witnesses. Documenting the scene through photographs can also provide valuable evidence.

Once the immediate needs are addressed, seek medical attention even if injuries are not apparent. Some injuries may not exhibit symptoms immediately. Contacting legal counsel should also be a priority to ensure that your rights are protected from the outset and that you avoid common pitfalls that could jeopardize your claim.

How is Fault Determined in a Big Rig Accident?

Determining fault in a big rig accident involves a thorough investigation of the incident. The evidence gathered from the scene, along with driver logs and maintenance reports, aids in establishing liability. In Colorado, comparative negligence laws allow for fault to be shared among parties. This means that the compensation you receive may be adjusted based on your degree of fault in the incident.

Our attorneys perform a meticulous analysis of all available evidence to ensure that the correct parties are held accountable. We consult experts when needed and utilize accident reconstruction if necessary. This comprehensive approach helps build a strong case for your rightful compensation, regardless of the complexity of fault determination.

What Compensation Can I Claim After a Big Rig Accident?

After a big rig accident, several types of compensation may be available depending on the specifics of your case. Generally, victims can seek recovery for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. If the accident resulted in a permanent disability, compensation might also account for future medical expenses and a reduction in earning capacity.

Our team at Curtis | Walton Law works diligently to assess the full extent of your damages. We collaborate with medical providers and financial experts to ensure that we include not only your current losses but also potential future impacts. This ensures that your settlement or court award reflects a comprehensive view of your financial and personal losses, fostering a sense of justice while helping to rebuild your life.

Local Support & Resources for Truck Accident Victims in Littleton

Living in Littleton, we understand our community's unique challenges, especially when navigating the aftermath of a semi-truck accident. The bustling traffic on major routes like US-85 and the nearby I-25 corridor can often lead to dangerous situations involving large commercial vehicles. Our Curtis | Walton Law team is deeply familiar with these local roads and their specific hazards.

In Littleton, local government entities such as the City of Littleton and the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) work tirelessly to maintain road safety. However, accidents still occur despite their efforts, often due to factors beyond their control, such as driver fatigue or shifting cargo.

One of the significant pain points for our clients is dealing with the aftermath of these accidents. The physical and emotional toll can be overwhelming, and seeking compensation can be daunting. We know that residents of Littleton and surrounding areas like Englewood often face long recovery periods and substantial medical bills. Our goal is to alleviate some of this burden by providing knowledgeable and compassionate legal support.

We also recognize the importance of local medical resources in the recovery process. Facilities like the Littleton Adventist Hospital and the UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital are crucial in providing immediate and long-term care for accident victims. Our familiarity with these institutions allows us to better coordinate and support our clients' medical needs.

At Curtis | Walton Law, we are committed to serving our community with the dedication and understanding that only locals can provide. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you or a loved one has been involved in a semi-truck accident in Littleton. We are here to help you navigate this challenging time and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Our local presence allows us to provide tailored advice and support, leveraging our knowledge of state laws and court systems specific to the area. We have established relationships with local experts and authorities who can lend their insights into cases where local knowledge is critical. This community-focused approach allows us to provide a more responsive and effective service to those affected by truck accidents in Littleton.

It is important to consult with a truck accident attorney as soon as possible following your crash, and especially before signing anything from either your insurance company or the other party’s insurance company. Contact us online or call (720) 815-4402 to speak with an attorney now.