Every year, there are hundreds of thousands of auto accidents involving large trucks. These behemoths – semis, tractor-trailers, big-rigs – whatever you choose to call them, are formidable opponents to other vehicles on the road. In the United States alone, there are tens of thousands of injuries, and thousands of deaths each year due to truck accidents.
If you have been injured in one of these accidents, you know how stressful and chaotic the aftermath is. You are likely facing time away from work, medical expenses, property damage, and could be battling mental and emotional trauma. But what can you do?
You can talk to a truck accident lawyer about your rights and possible options to pursue recovery. If someone else was at fault for the accident, you may be entitled to compensation that will relieve your financial burdens, and some of your stress. Not sure where to start? Most truck accident lawyers offer a free consultation, which means there is no risk in asking questions and learning more.
6 Questions to ask a Truck Accident Injury Lawyer
To help you get started, we offer a list of 6 questions to ask a truck accident lawyer, which may help you feel more at ease as you consider your options.
1. Do you have experience with truck accident cases?
This may be apparent before your meeting, but you should still ask for examples of the types of truck accident cases the lawyer and/or firm have handled. Federal law governs a lot of truck companies and trucking regulations, and you need a lawyer on your side who has access to these.
2. Who is responsible for my injuries?
A truck accident lawyer will thoroughly review the details of your accident to help determine who was at fault, and who should be held liable for your injuries. Often, the truck driver, owner, or employer are at fault to some degree.
3. What kind of compensation can I get?
The amount of compensation you are eligible for depends on the nature and extent of your injuries, and other factors. A truck accident lawyer will consider all of your financial and other losses and will calculate a reasonable amount for damages.
4. What if my case goes to trial?
Most truck accident lawyers are experienced at negotiating settlements and taking cases to trial. That’s not to say every lawyer has the skills necessary, however. It’s a good idea to find a lawyer who has experience taking cases before a judge and jury.
5. Who will be working on my case?
It’s common in law firms for several people to be part of your legal team. You may have more than one lawyer, paralegal, and legal assistant handling various aspects of your case. Find out who these people are and how you can get in touch with them if you have questions.
6. How much does a truck accident case cost?
Every lawyer and law firm is different, but most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. That means you owe nothing up front. If they “win” your case, they will get a percentage of the settlement or verdict amount, and you will get the remainder after bills and expenses are paid. This allows you to relax and not worry about financial pressures while you heal and seek justice.
Conclusion
The most important thing to remember when you are considering hiring a truck accident lawyer is that it’s okay to ask questions. At The Embry Law Firm, we hope that these questions help you get started on the road to recovery – physically and financially. As you move through the legal process, continue to ask questions and be actively involved in your case.
