Anyone who has been involved in a truck accident understands that it is the kind of event that changes everything in an instant. The aftermath of the collision is a unique mixture of shock, pain, and anxiety. In addition to the devastating physical and emotional consequences, many Scottsdale truck accident victims face overwhelming financial upheaval. The struggle to afford medical treatment and the uncertainty about when and whether they can return to work become additional reasons for stressful days and sleepless nights.
If you have experienced this kind of disruption in your life due to a commercial truck accident, you may be eligible to recover much-needed compensation for your losses. The experienced Scottsdale truck accident lawyers at Mushkatel, Gobbato, & Kile, P.L.L.C. have 50 years of combined legal experience – and we are ready to put that experience to work for you. With us on your side, you can hold the at-fault parties accountable for their wrongdoing so you can move forward with dignity. Call us today or contact us online for a confidential consultation with a semi-truck accident lawyer in Scottsdale, Arizona.
What Causes Truck Accidents in Scottsdale?
Truck collisions in Scottsdale can occur due to various factors, often involving human error, mechanical failures, and environmental conditions. Some common causes include:
- Drowsiness and reduced reaction times, often due to long hours on the road
- Using mobile devices or engaging in other non-driving activities while behind the wheel
- Exceeding posted speed limits or driving too fast for road conditions
- Unbalanced or unsecured cargo that shifts during transport
- Neglecting regular vehicle inspections and repairs
- Rain, dust storms, or extreme heat affecting road conditions and visibility
- Tailgating, unsafe lane changes, failure to yield the right-of-way, and other aggressive driving behaviors
- Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Inadequate training and knowledge of proper truck operation and safety procedures
By understanding these common causes, we can work towards preventing future trucking accidents and improving road safety for everyone in Scottsdale.
Why Are Trucking Accidents More Severe Than Car Accidents?
While any traffic accident can cause severe injuries and damage, a collision with a truck is significantly more likely to result in catastrophic or even life-threatening outcomes for passenger vehicle occupants. There are many reasons for this, including the following.
Size Disparity
The most noticeable difference between cars and large commercial trucks is their size. While the average car on Scottsdale’s roads weighs around 4,000 pounds, a truck that is fully loaded with cargo can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. This disparity means that the occupants of a smaller car will bear the brunt of the impact force in an accident, even if both vehicles are traveling at relatively slow speeds.
Shape of the Truck
A truck’s shape makes it possible for uniquely dangerous types of accidents, including:
- Jackknife accidents, in which the truck’s cab and trailer swing in different directions
- Underride accidents, in which a smaller vehicle is caught underneath the truck’s trailer
- Rollover accidents, in which a top-heavy truck collapses onto a smaller car
These types of collisions can lead to life-threatening injuries.
Cargo
In many instances, the cargo in a truck’s trailer makes crashes more severe. This is sometimes due to imbalances within the trailer, making the truck more challenging to handle. At other times, the truck may be carrying hazardous cargo, which can lead to dangerous chemical reactions, fires, or explosions in the immediate aftermath of an accident.
Braking System
The size and shape of a commercial truck require a specialized, sophisticated braking system to ensure that the truck can decelerate and stop. If the driver does not have the proper training to operate the brakes or the system malfunctions, catastrophic high-speed accidents can occur.
What Are Some Common Injuries from Truck Accidents?
Due to the above factors, truck wrecks often cause some of the most severe injuries. At Mushkatel, Gobbato, & Kile, P.L.L.C., we have seen the following types of injuries affecting clients who have been involved in trucking accidents:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), ranging from mild concussions to severe, life-altering brain damage
- Spinal cord injuries, potentially leading to partial or complete paralysis
- Fractures in arms, legs, ribs, or other parts of the body
- Injuries to vital organs such as the liver, kidneys, or lungs
- Neck and upper back injuries, such as whiplash, from sudden, forceful movements
- Burn injuries, often resulting from fuel fires or exposure to hazardous materials
- Cuts and bruises that can range from moderate to severe
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other forms of emotional distress
These injuries can have long-lasting effects on victims’ lives, often requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Scottsdale Truck Accident?
Determining liability in a truck accident can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility. Potentially liable parties include:
- The truck driver, if they violated traffic laws or engaged in negligent behavior
- The trucking company, for improper hiring practices, inadequate training, or encouraging unsafe driving practices
- The cargo loading company, if improperly loaded or secured cargo contributed to the accident
- The vehicle manufacturer, for defective truck parts or components
- The maintenance provider, if poor maintenance led to mechanical failures
- Government bodies, for poorly designed or maintained roads
Multiple parties may share liability in many truck accident cases, so a thorough investigation is crucial to identify all potentially responsible parties.
How Do You Prove Who Is At Fault for the Accident?
Establishing fault in a truck accident requires a comprehensive investigation. Some key steps in proving fault include:
- Collecting police reports – Official accident reports often provide crucial details about the crash.
- Gathering witness statements – Eyewitness accounts can offer valuable perspectives on the collision.
- Analyzing physical evidence – Skid marks, vehicle damage, and debris can help experts reconstruct the wreck.
- Reviewing driver logs – These records can reveal violations of FMCSA hours-of-service regulations.
- Examining truck maintenance records – These documents can identify any neglected repairs or inspections.
- Analyzing electronic data – Many trucks have “black boxes” that record speed, braking, and other data.
Our experienced legal team at Mushkatel, Gobbato, & Kile, P.L.L.C. knows how to gather and analyze this evidence to build a solid case on your behalf. We work diligently to prove fault and hold your wrongdoers accountable for their negligence.
What Compensation Could Be Recovered from a Scottsdale Truck Accident Claim?
The compensation an injury victim is eligible to recover after a truck accident in Scottsdale depends on the case’s unique circumstances. Factors influencing the amount of your award include the severity of your injuries, the changes you have had to make due to the crash, the at-fault party’s insurance coverage limits, and the quality of your legal counsel. The experienced truck accident attorneys at Mushkatel, Gobbato, & Kile, P.L.L.C. can help you seek compensation for losses such as:
- Medical expenses for accident-related injuries and any ongoing care you may require
- Lost income if your injuries have forced you to take time off work
- Reduced earning capacity if an accident-related disability prevents you from returning to your previous job
- Physical and emotional pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
While predicting the outcome of any case is impossible, consulting with a knowledgeable Arizona truck accident attorney can give you an informed estimate of how much your claim might be worth.
Is There a Time Limit for Filing a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Arizona?
Arizona’s statute of limitations for truck accident claims specifies that injury victims have a maximum of two years to initiate legal action against the at-fault party. If you fail to file your suit by the deadline, the court will likely reject your truck accident claim.
Enlisting the services of an experienced truck accident attorney as soon as possible is crucial to protecting your right to compensation. Waiting too long to speak to a lawyer increases the risk that crucial evidence will disappear and eyewitness memories will fade. The earlier you consult with our team, the sooner we can begin our investigation and work toward the justice you deserve.
Contact a Scottsdale Truck Accident Lawyer
Living with truck accident injuries can be overwhelming, frustrating, and lonely. However, even when you believe you are in your darkest moments, it is crucial to remember that there is a path toward a brighter future – and you do not have to travel this journey alone. A compassionate and skilled Scottsdale truck accident attorney can give you the support and advocacy you need as you seek the compensation you deserve.
At Mushkatel, Gobbato, & Kile, P.L.L.C., we understand the challenges you are facing. Our skilled legal team has the knowledge, talents, and resources to take on the trucking company and their insurers. We will handle every aspect of your case every step of the way so that you can focus on healing. Call us today or contact us online, and let us give you the individualized attention and care you and your truck accident case deserve.
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