Construction truck accidents are some of the most devastating on the road due to the incredible size and weight of these vehicles. When these accidents happen in busy construction zones, the risks increase dramatically, especially when additional hazards, like narrow lanes or shifting traffic, are involved.
If you have been injured in a collision, you need a dedicated Gretna construction truck accident lawyer from Scott Vicknair Injury Lawyers to guide you through the claims process and help you secure maximum compensation for your suffering. At Scott Vicknair Injury Lawyers, we understand the life-changing impact these accidents can have. With over 30 years of trial experience, we have the resources to handle even the most complex construction truck accident cases.
Our firm is available 24/7 to ensure you have the support you need when you need it most, so contact us at any time of the day to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Gretna truck accident lawyer.
What to do After a Construction Truck Accident in Gretna
The moments following a construction truck accident can be chaotic, but how you respond can have a major impact on your case. Taking prompt and deliberate action can help preserve crucial evidence and protect your rights as you recuperate. Here is what you should do immediately after the accident:
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Call the police
- Gather evidence
- Contact a premier Gretna personal injury lawyer for help
Taking immediate action after a construction truck accident is essential for protecting your rights. The more quickly you can gather evidence and seek medical attention, the better prepared you will be to pursue your claim. Working with our Gretna construction truck accident attorney can ensure that you follow the right steps and get the support you need for a successful case.
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504-500-1111Common Causes of Construction Truck Accidents in Gretna
Understanding the cause of your construction truck accident is critical to determining liability and building a strong case. Many construction truck accidents are caused by preventable factors, often stemming from negligence or failure to follow necessary safety practices. Some of the most common causes of these accidents include:
Driver Negligence
Negligent driving is one of the most common causes of construction truck accidents, according to the Large Truck Crash Causation Study conducted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Drivers may be distracted by their phones, fatigued from long shifts, or rushing to meet tight schedules, all of which can impair their judgment and reaction times. When a driver fails to focus on the road or disregards safety regulations, they put everyone else at risk.
Inadequate Vehicle Maintenance
Given their heavy-duty nature, construction trucks require constant upkeep to ensure they remain safe for operation. Failure to maintain essential components, such as brakes or tires, can lead to mechanical failures that cause accidents. These trucks are large and require precise handling, and any mechanical issue can be catastrophic.
Improperly Loaded Cargo
When cargo is not securely loaded, it can shift during transport, throwing off the balance of the truck. This can lead to instability, loss of control, and accidents that affect other vehicles on the road. Proper loading techniques and cargo securement are essential for preventing accidents related to shifting cargo.
Poorly Maintained Construction Zones
Construction zones are inherently hazardous, but poorly managed zones increase the risk of accidents. Inadequate signage, improperly placed barricades, or unmarked obstacles can make driving through these zones difficult, especially for large construction trucks.
Drivers who are not adequately warned of sudden changes in traffic flow or road conditions may struggle to navigate through these zones safely.
Inexperienced Drivers
Driving a construction truck requires specialized training and experience, particularly when maneuvering large vehicles in tight spaces. Drivers who lack the necessary training may struggle with the complexities of operating these vehicles, especially in construction zones.
Inexperienced drivers are more likely to make mistakes that lead to accidents, such as failing to properly secure cargo or not adjusting their speed for road conditions.
Liability for Construction Truck Accidents in Gretna
It is not uncommon for multiple parties to share liability in construction truck accidents. Determining who is at fault is essential to ensuring that the right parties are held accountable for your damages. The following individuals or entities may share culpability for the accident, depending on the specific circumstances:
The Construction Truck Driver’s Liability
Construction truck drivers are responsible for operating their vehicles safely and in compliance with traffic laws. If the driver was negligent, whether due to distraction, fatigue, or reckless driving, they can be compelled to compensate you for your damages. It is essential to review the driver’s actions leading up to the crash to determine whether their negligence contributed to the wreck.
Your construction accident lawyer in Gretna, LA, can help identify and prove the driver’s liability by collecting evidence such as driver logs, eyewitness accounts, and traffic camera footage.
The Construction Company’s Liability
The construction company that owns the truck or employs the driver may be held liable for the accident. If the company fails to properly train its drivers, maintain its vehicles, or ensure safe working conditions in construction zones, it can be held responsible. Companies must ensure that their operations follow safety regulations and industry standards to protect others on the road.
Our Gretna construction truck accident lawyers will investigate the company’s practices, including its training programs and maintenance records, to determine whether it shares responsibility for the accident. In some cases, the company’s failure to meet safety standards can contribute to the crash.
The Truck Owner or Employer’s Liability
In cases where the company that owns the truck or employs the driver is responsible for the accident, they can be found liable for your suffering.
This includes instances where the company did not provide proper training, imposed unreasonable deadlines, and encouraged or forced drivers to violate hours of service regulations under 49 CFR 395. Our investigation is crucial for ensuring that your claim includes anyone and everyone who shares fault for your wreck.
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504-500-1111Speak with a Dedicated Construction Truck Accident Lawyer in Gretna, LA for Help Today
After a construction truck accident, it is important to understand your rights and take immediate action to protect your future. The legal process can be complex, but with the right guidance, you can ensure that all liable parties are held accountable. Scott Vicknair Injury Lawyers is here to provide you with the support and legal expertise you need to get through this difficult time.
With over 30 years of experience, we have successfully helped countless clients recover from devastating accidents. Contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation with a trial-proven construction truck accident attorney in Gretna, LA. You can reach us by phone or through our online contact form to get started on your case as soon as today.