If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, you know how overwhelming the aftermath can be. From severe injuries to mounting medical bills and property damage, the impact is often life-altering. While most people think they may never be in one, that’s actually far from the truth.
Trucking accidents are more common than you may think and that’s where the truck accident lawyers come into consideration. A truck accident case can become pretty complicated at times and handling it without the right help can be a nuisance.
Personal Injury Attorney for A Trucking Accident
According to the Nevada Department of Transportation’s (NDOT) traffic crash map, the Las Vegas metro area had 50,312 car accident injuries and out of which many involved a truck. A single Las Vegas truck accident can include compensation worth thousands of dollars, and the party at fault could lose their business without the right help.
If the truck accident victim is able to find a personal injury attorney who knows how to get the job done, the trucking company could be in serious trouble.
Hiring a truck accident lawyer can be crucial in helping you recover maximum compensation, but one of the first questions many victims ask is: How much does a truck accident lawyer cost?
This guide will explore the typical costs associated with hiring a truck accident attorney, the benefits of legal representation, and what to expect during your truck accident claim.
Understanding Truck Accidents
Truck accidents differ significantly from regular car accidents. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks lead to more severe impacts, often involving passenger vehicles and resulting in catastrophic injuries.
Why Are Truck Accidents More Complex?
- Multiple Liable Parties: Unlike standard accidents, truck accident cases often involve multiple liable parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, and commercial insurance companies.
- Severe Injuries: Victims frequently sustain traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and other serious injuries that require long-term medical treatment.
- Federal Regulations: Trucking companies and truck drivers must adhere to strict federal regulations enforced by agencies like the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
- Driver Fatigue: Many truck drivers work long hours, leading to dangerous fatigue.
- Improper Maintenance: Negligent trucking companies may fail to maintain their commercial vehicles adequately.
- Distracted Driving: Truckers using phones or engaging in other distractions while driving.
- Overloaded Trucks: Improper loading of large trucks can affect their balance and braking.
The Benefits of Hiring a Truck Accident Lawyer
Engaging an experienced truck accident attorney can be the difference between a lowball offer and a fair settlement.
1. Expertise in Truck Accident Cases
Truck accident attorneys specialize in handling the complexities of truck wrecks and commercial truck accidents. They understand how to investigate, gather evidence, and hold liable parties accountable.
2. Maximizing Compensation
A truck accident lawyer ensures you pursue all types of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Covers immediate costs like hospital bills and long-term care such as physical therapy.
- Lost Wages: Reimburses income lost due to your inability to work.
- Pain and Suffering: Provides compensation for physical pain, emotional trauma, and loss of life enjoyment.
3. Handling Insurance Companies
Insurance companies aim to minimize payouts. A Vegas truck accident lawyer can negotiate effectively to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.
How Much Does a Truck Accident Lawyer Cost?
One of the biggest concerns for victims of truck accidents is the cost of hiring a truck accident lawyer. Given the financial strain caused by medical bills, lost wages, and property damage, many worry they can’t afford legal representation. However, most truck accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, making it easier for victims to pursue justice without upfront costs.
Contingency Fee Basis
The contingency fee model is designed to ensure that legal representation is accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. Here’s how it works:
- No Upfront Costs: You don’t have to pay any legal fees upfront. The lawyer only gets paid if they win your case.
- Percentage of Settlement or Award: The lawyer’s fee is a percentage of the compensation you receive, typically ranging from 25% to 40%. This percentage may vary depending on factors like the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and whether the case goes to trial.
For example:
- If your truck accident settlement is $200,000 and your contingency fee is 33%, your lawyer will receive $66,000.
- If the case requires extensive litigation, the percentage may increase to 40%, but this will be outlined in your agreement beforehand.
Key Benefits of Contingency Fees
This fee structure offers several advantages for truck accident victims:
1. No Upfront Costs
The biggest immediate benefit is that you don’t have to pay out-of-pocket to hire a lawyer. Many victims already face significant financial burdens from medical expenses and lost income, so avoiding upfront legal fees provides crucial relief.
2. Accessible Legal Services
The contingency fee model ensures that high-quality legal representation is available to everyone, not just those who can afford to pay hourly rates. Even if you’re facing financial difficulties, you can still work with an experienced truck accident lawyer.
3. Incentive to Win
Since a lawyer’s payment depends on the outcome of your case, they are highly motivated to secure the best possible settlement or verdict. This aligns their interests with yours, ensuring they will work diligently to maximize your compensation.
Contingency Fee Agreement
Before officially hiring a truck accident attorney, you’ll sign a contingency fee agreement. This document is crucial as it outlines:
- The Exact Percentage: The agreed-upon percentage that the lawyer will take from your settlement or court award.
- Additional Costs: Any other costs that may be deducted, such as filing fees, expert witness expenses, or court costs.
This agreement provides transparency, so you know exactly what to expect. If you have any questions about the terms, don’t hesitate to ask during your free consultation. A trustworthy lawyer will walk you through the details and ensure you’re comfortable with the arrangement.
Additional Costs
While most truck accident law firms cover certain expenses upfront, it’s important to understand what additional costs might arise and how they will be handled.
Common Upfront Costs Covered by Law Firms:
- Filing Fees: Costs associated with filing your case in court.
- Expert Witness Fees: Truck accident cases often require testimony from experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals, to strengthen your claim.
- Administrative Costs: Expenses for document preparation, copying, and mailing.
How These Costs Are Recovered
In many cases, these expenses are deducted from your final settlement or court award. For example, if you win $200,000 and your lawyer incurs $5,000 in upfront costs, these costs will be deducted from the settlement after the contingency fee is applied.
It’s essential to clarify how these costs will be handled during your initial consultation to avoid surprises. Some lawyers may absorb these costs entirely if your case doesn’t result in a settlement or verdict, while others may expect reimbursement.
Why Transparency Matters
Understanding the financial aspects of hiring a lawyer is crucial for making informed decisions. A reputable truck accident attorney will be upfront about their fees and any potential costs, ensuring you have a clear picture of your financial obligations before moving forward.
By working on a contingency fee basis, lawyers provide a risk-free opportunity for victims to pursue justice and fair compensation without the added burden of upfront legal fees. This allows you to focus on your recovery while your lawyer handles the complexities of your truck accident claim.
Types of Compensation Available
Compensation is often decided from the types of damages occurred because of the accident. This can be both economic and non economic and contributes to the final compensation amount.
1. Medical Expenses
Truck accidents often result in serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment. Compensation may include:
- Emergency Room Visits
- Surgeries
- Rehabilitation and Therapy
- Ongoing Medical Care
2. Lost Wages
If you’re unable to work due to your injuries, you can claim compensation for:
- Past Wages lost during recovery.
- Future Income Loss, especially in cases involving permanent disability.
3. Pain and Suffering
These non-economic damages compensate for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
4. Property Damage
Reimbursement for vehicle repair or replacement costs.
Common Truck Accident Injuries
Cases where the injuries are caused by the driver are pretty straightforward because of the at-fault system in Nevada. Victims of truck accidents often face long recovery periods and permanent disabilities.
Common Injuries Include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Severe head injuries leading to cognitive or motor impairments.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: May result in partial or total paralysis.
- Amputations: Loss of limbs due to severe trauma.
- Lacerations and Burns: Often require extensive medical care, including skin grafts.
These injuries highlight the importance of pursuing comprehensive compensation to cover all medical and non-medical costs.
Steps to Take After a Truck Accident
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not present symptoms immediately. Medical documentation also strengthens your truck accident claim.
2. Document the Accident Scene
Take photos and videos of:
- Vehicle Damage
- Injuries
- Road Conditions
3. File a Police Report
A police report serves as crucial evidence in your personal injury lawsuit. There’s a slightly different way around if you want to file the case without a police report.
4. Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer
Reach out to a truck accident law firm to discuss your case. Most firms offer a free consultation.
Determining Your Eligibility for a Claim
Nevada operates under a fault-based system, meaning the liable parties must compensate for damages.
Proving Negligence
To win a truck accident lawsuit, you must demonstrate that:
- The truck driver or trucking company owed you a duty of care.
- They breached that duty through negligence (e.g., reckless driving, improper maintenance).
- The breach caused the accident and your injuries.
Who Can Be Held Accountable?
Liable Parties May Include:
- Truck Drivers: For negligence like speeding or distracted driving.
- Trucking Companies: For hiring unqualified drivers or failing to maintain vehicles.
- Maintenance Providers and Manufacturers: For faulty equipment or repairs.
The Truck Accident Claims Process
The process of pursuing a truck accident claim involves several stages:
1. Filing the Claim
Your lawyer will file a claim against the insurance company of the trucking company or other liable parties.
2. Investigation
Your attorney will gather evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and black box data from the truck.
3. Negotiation
Most truck accident claims are resolved through negotiation. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer may recommend filing a personal injury lawsuit.
4. Litigation (If Necessary)
Should the case go to court, your lawyer will present your case to secure the best possible outcome.
Finding the Right Truck Accident Lawyer
Choosing the right Vegas truck accident lawyer is critical to your case’s success.
What to Look For:
- Experience in Truck Accident Cases: Proven track record handling semi-truck accidents and other commercial vehicle cases.
- Local Expertise: Familiarity with Nevada’s trucking laws and courts.
- Strong Negotiation Skills: Ability to deal effectively with commercial insurance companies.
Scheduling a Free Consultation
Most personal injury law firms offer a free consultation to review your case and discuss your legal options.
Make Your Truck Accident Claims with Us!
Truck accidents are life-changing events, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. An experienced truck accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and secure the maximum compensation you deserve.
With most truck accident attorneys working on a contingency fee basis, high-quality legal representation is accessible to all victims. These are the features we proudly offer at Boruassa Law Group. Our truck accident lawyers are present around the clock and ready to help.
Contact Bourassa Law Group today for a free consultation, and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
1-800-870-8910