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Log Truck Accident Truck Driver Fatigue 18 Wheeler Accident

Standing Strong with Stalwart Support

The aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, leaving victims with serious injuries, financial strain, and emotional trauma. From life-altering injuries to the loss of loved ones, the toll of a truck accident can be immense and long-lasting. Our team understands the emotional turmoil that accompanies a truck accident, and we're committed to providing you with the guidance, reassurance, and compensation you need to move forward with confidence.

Empathetic Legal Advocacy

With us, you're more than just a case number – you're a valued member of our community, and we'll fight tirelessly to ensure that your voice is heard and your rights are protected. We'll stand up to insurance companies and negligent parties on your behalf, advocating fiercely for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Recovering from a truck accident is a journey, and we'll be there with you every step of the way. You are always welcome to visit us in our offices, or we are happy to come see you at home or in the hospital if that is more comfortable. From investigating the details of your accident to fighting the insurance company in court, we'll handle all aspects of your case so that you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life.

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Expertise in Truck Accidents

Founded in Little Rock by Peter Miller in 1986, our firm became highly recognizable for our well-reviewed client service and charming TV commercials. Now led by Jessica Virden Mallett, we continue to build on our legacy of putting clients first. We offer:

Specialization:

Our attorneys specialize in personal injury law, including truck accident cases.  We understand the particular challenges associated with truck accidents and have the expertise to navigate through them effectively.

Experience:

With more than 8 decades of collective attorney experience, our legal team has successfully represented numerous clients in truck accident cases. We have a comprehensive understanding of the factors that contribute to truck accidents, including driver negligence, mechanical failures, improper loading, and more.

Commitment to Justice:

We help our clients obtain the compensation they deserve for their injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We don’t think it’s right that big insurance companies should be able to take advantage of people just because they have more money and resources. So we do not let them. Everything we do is in service of getting our clients the compensation they need and deserve.

Types of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents come in various forms, each with its unique set of legal considerations. 

Log Truck Accidents

Accidents involving log trucks can be particularly devastating due to the size and weight of the logs being transported. Our Little Rock truck accident attorneys work as a team to investigate these accidents and hold negligent parties accountable for their actions.

Semi-Truck Accidents:

Semi trucks, also known as tractor-trailers or big rigs, are involved in a significant number of accidents on the road. As a larger firm, we have the experience and resources to handle complex semi-truck accident cases and pursue maximum compensation for our clients.

Truck Driver Fatigue: 

Fatigued driving is a prevalent issue among truck drivers, often leading to accidents caused by impaired judgment and decreased reaction times. We advocate for victims of truck accidents caused by driver fatigue and work to hold trucking companies accountable for their negligence.

18-Wheeler Accidents: 

18-wheelers are large commercial trucks with multiple trailers. Accidents involving these ultra-big trucks can often result in catastrophic injuries, extensive property damage, and even, tragically, fatality. We will fight for the rights of injured individuals and their families.

What Are the Common Causes of Truck Accidents?

Semi-trucks play a vital role in the economy, but their large size and weight make them inherently dangerous when involved in accidents. Common causes of semi-truck accidents include:

Driver Fatigue:

Long hours on the road can lead to driver fatigue, impairing a truck driver's ability to react quickly and make sound decisions. Despite federal regulations limiting the number of consecutive hours a driver can operate a commercial vehicle, some drivers and trucking companies may disregard these rules to meet tight delivery deadlines.

Distracted Driving:

Distractions such as texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting navigation systems can divert a truck driver's attention from the road, increasing the risk of accidents. With the rise of smartphones and other electronic devices, distracted driving has become a significant concern in the trucking industry.

Impaired Driving:

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a leading cause of truck accidents. Despite strict regulations prohibiting commercial truck drivers from operating vehicles while impaired, some drivers may engage in risky behavior, putting themselves and others at risk.

Equipment Failure:

Semi-trucks require regular maintenance to ensure safe operation. Mechanical failures such as brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, or steering system issues can lead to serious accidents. Negligence in inspecting and maintaining truck components can result in catastrophic consequences on the road. Cutting corners can mean tragedy for families.

What Happens After a Semi-Truck Accident?

The aftermath of a semi-truck accident can be a whirlwind of confusion and stress, but we’re here to help you navigate these challenges confidently. Take the following steps:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Your health and safety are the top priority. Even if you feel fine initially, injuries such as whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma can develop over time. Prompt medical evaluation ensures your well-being and creates vital documentation for your case.

2. Report the Accident

Notify local law enforcement and file a detailed accident report. This report will serve as an official record of the incident and can be a critical piece of evidence in your case.

3. Gather Evidence

If possible, document the accident scene by taking photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses and exchange insurance details with the truck driver. If you are unable to gather this information, ask someone to do it on your behalf.

4. Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer

Contacting a lawyer as soon as possible is critical to making sure no evidence is lost. The trucking companies have on-call attorneys who are often on scene as quickly as police. Valuable data can be lost if not preserved quickly. Truck accident cases are complex, involving multiple parties such as the driver, trucking company, and insurers. The experienced lawyers at Miller & Mallett will investigate the accident, preserve crucial evidence (like electronic logging device records), and build a strong case on your behalf.

5. Focus on Recovery

While we handle the legal aspects of your case, you can focus on healing. We’ll keep you informed at every stage and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Frequency of Truck Accidents in Little Rock

Little Rock is a major hub for commercial trucking due to its central location and access to interstates like I-40 and I-30. Unfortunately, this also means truck accidents are a frequent occurrence in the area. According to recent statistics:

  • Arkansas sees thousands of large truck crashes annually, with a significant percentage occurring in Pulaski County
  • Semi-truck accidents account for a disproportionate number of fatal crashes due to the size and weight of these vehicles compared to passenger cars
  • Common locations for truck accidents in Little Rock include congested urban roads, highway interchanges, and areas with heavy traffic flow

Our firm is well-versed in handling cases unique to the Little Rock area and will use our local knowledge to your advantage.

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Trucking Industry Regulations

The trucking industry is governed by strict federal and state regulations that promote safety and accountability. Some of the key regulations include the following:

  • Hours of Service (HOS) Rules: Truck drivers are limited in the number of consecutive hours they can drive to prevent fatigue. For example, drivers can work up to 11 hours after ten successive off-duty hours.
  • Maintenance and Inspection Standards: Trucking companies are required to regularly inspect and maintain their vehicles to ensure they are safe for the road.
  • Weight Limits: Semi-trucks must comply with federal weight restrictions to prevent overloading, which can increase the risk of accidents.
  • Drug and Alcohol Testing: Truck drivers must undergo routine drug and alcohol testing to ensure they are fit to operate their vehicles.

Recovery After a Truck Accident

Medical Expenses and Rehabilitation

Truck accident injuries often require extensive medical care, from emergency treatment and surgeries to long-term rehabilitation. You may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Hospital stays, surgeries, and medical procedures
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation services
  • Assistive devices such as wheelchairs or prosthetics
  • Future medical expenses related to ongoing care or complications

Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity

If your injuries prevent you from working temporarily or permanently, you can recover damages for:

  • Wages lost during recovery
  • Reduced earning capacity if your ability to work is diminished
  • Lost benefits such as retirement contributions or bonuses

Property Damage

Accidents involving large trucks can result in severe damage to your vehicle and other personal property. Compensation can cover:

  • Repairs or replacement of your vehicle
  • Reimbursement for damaged personal belongings inside the vehicle

Pain and Suffering

Truck accidents often lead to significant physical pain and emotional distress. Non-economic damages can include:

  • Pain and discomfort caused by injuries
  • Emotional trauma, anxiety, or depression stemming from the accident
  • Loss of enjoyment of life due to physical or emotional limitations
  • Scars and other physical disfigurements from your injuries

Loss of Consortium

If your injuries affect your relationships, such as a reduced ability to provide companionship or care to a loved one, compensation for loss of consortium may be available.

Punitive Damages

In cases of egregious negligence, such as reckless driving or violations of federal trucking regulations, punitive damages may be awarded to penalize the at-fault party and deter similar behavior.

At every stage, we work diligently to assess the full scope of your damages and ensure no detail is overlooked. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on healing and moving forward.

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Determining Who Is Liable for Your Truck Accident

Truck accident cases often involve multiple parties, making it critical to identify all responsible parties to ensure fair compensation. Liability may rest with:

  • The Truck Driver: If the driver was fatigued, distracted, impaired, or otherwise negligent, they can be held liable for their actions.
  • The Trucking Company: Employers can be held accountable for negligence in hiring unqualified drivers, failing to maintain vehicles, or encouraging unsafe practices to meet deadlines.
  • Maintenance Providers: Improper or insufficient truck maintenance can lead to mechanical failures that cause accidents.
  • Manufacturers: Defective truck parts, such as brakes or tires, may point to liability on the manufacturer's part.
  • Cargo Loaders: Overloaded or improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, causing loss of control or tip-over accidents.
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Miller & Mallett: The Firm With a Smile

The legal process after a truck accident can be overwhelming, especially while you are dealing with injuries and recovery. Our compassionate legal team is here to guide you, providing personalized attention and support throughout your case.

We will conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding your accident, gather evidence to support your claim, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. Often, we can negotiate a settlement without even having to go to court. But when necessary, we are prepared to take your case to court and vigorously advocate for your rights.

Visit Us in Little Rock

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, you need reputable legal advice. Contact the Law Offices of Miller & Mallett today to get a free consultation. Let us put our expertise and experience to work for you.

FAQ

What Questions Should I Ask a Truck Accident Lawyer?

What Does This Process Usually Involve?

What Kind of Compensation Can I Receive?

How Do Insurance Companies Handle Truck Accident Claims?

How and When Do You Collect Your Fees?

What Makes Truck Accidents So Much More Dangerous Than Car Accidents?

What Questions Should I Ask a Truck Accident Lawyer?

When selecting a truck accident lawyer, ensuring they have the right experience and approach for your case is essential. Here are some key questions to ask: How many truck accident cases have you handled, and what were the outcomes? Do you specialize in personal injury law or truck accident claims? What resources do you use to investigate truck accidents? How will you keep me informed about the progress of my case? What is your strategy for negotiating with insurance companies or going to court if necessary? These questions can help you gauge the lawyer’s expertise, communication style, and commitment to achieving the best outcome for your case.

What Does This Process Usually Involve?

The process of pursuing a truck accident claim typically includes the following steps: Consultation: Meet with your lawyer to discuss the details of your accident and determine the best legal strategy. Investigation: Your lawyer will gather evidence such as police reports, witness statements, medical records, and black box data from the truck. Filing the Claim: To begin the compensation process, a claim is filed with the insurance company or trucking company. Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate on your behalf to reach a fair settlement. Litigation (if necessary): If a settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will prepare to take your case to court. Resolution: Whether through settlement or trial, your case will conclude with compensation for your damages.

What Kind of Compensation Can I Receive?

Compensation for a truck accident can vary depending on the circumstances, but you may be eligible for: Medical expenses, Lost wages, Property damage, Pain and suffering, Punitive damages

How Do Insurance Companies Handle Truck Accident Claims?

Insurance companies often approach truck accident claims intending to minimize their financial liability. Common tactics include: Offering low initial settlements to close the case quickly. Questioning the severity of your injuries or the extent of your damages. Delaying responses to wear you down and pressure you into accepting a smaller payout. Blaming you or other factors for the accident to reduce their responsibility

How and When Do You Collect Your Fees?

Most truck accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing out of pocket to start your case. The lawyer’s fees are collected as a percentage of the compensation you recover. You don't owe any legal fees if you don’t win your case. During your initial consultation, we’ll explain our fee structure clearly so you know exactly what to expect.

What Makes Truck Accidents So Much More Dangerous Than Car Accidents?

Truck accidents are significantly more dangerous than car accidents due to the following factors: Size and Weight: Semi-trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, compared to an average car’s 3,000 pounds, resulting in greater force during a collision. Longer Stopping Distances: Trucks require much more distance to stop, increasing the likelihood of accidents in high-traffic areas. Hazardous Cargo: Trucks often carry materials like fuel or chemicals that can cause fires or toxic spills during accidents. Limited Maneuverability: Due to their size, trucks have larger blind spots and are less agile, making it harder to avoid accidents. Catastrophic Injuries: The severity of injuries in truck accidents is often much greater, leading to long-term consequences or fatalities.

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