After a Truck Accident in Louisiana
Although commercial trucks, multi-axle trucks, and tractor semi-trailer vehicles accounted for only 3-4% of all traffic on the roads in Louisiana in 2013, they were involved in nearly 9% of the total fatalities and 3% of all injuries. New Orleans was the site for the second largest number of accidents involving trucks in 2013.
Because an accident with a large vehicle can cause a large amount of damage and injury, it is important to take the right steps following a truck accident. If you or a loved one were in an accident with a semi-truck, big rig, or other commercial driver not following the regulations, the driver and his or her company could be responsible for your injuries and/or damages.
All trucks and truck drivers must carry commercial driver licenses, and adhere to the rules for adequate rest for the driver (called Hours of Service). They are also bound to comply with maximum weight requirements, quality control for manufacturing and repair of trucks, and transportation of hazardous materials.
Liability in Truck Accident Cases
Determining who was at fault for the accident may hinge on a violation of a regulation like the ones listed above, or could be more complicated to resolve. For more information on liability, see our blog titled “I was Cutoff by a Truck and Injured. Who is at Fault?”
Damages and Personal Injury
In most Louisiana truck accidents, there are damages to a vehicle or other personal belongings, and/or injuries to passenger vehicle occupants. Along with determining who is at fault for the accident, it will be important to determine what damages and injuries were the result of the accident. Monetary compensation for damages and injuries can include:
- Medical Expenses – Ambulance fees, hospital visits, doctor visits, in-home care services, etc.
- Pain and Suffering – Mental and physical distress of the pain, anxiety, stress, etc.
- Lost Wages – Any lost work or pay due to the accident and follow-up health care appointments
- Lost Earning Capacity – Loss of future ability to earn more money in the future due to impairments from the injuries
- Loss of companionship – Loss of affection or relations in a marriage or, in wrongful death cases, the loss of the loved one
- Special Damages – A general category that covers all monetary losses after an accident
Seeking Legal Help
A commercial truck accident can be complicated. Contact an experienced attorney, like Smiley Law Firm, to get help in determining fault, negligence, and the best recovery theories that may help repair your damages or injuries caused by an accident with a large truck.
