With years of experience in personal injury law and a commitment to maximizing client outcomes, we are the reliable choice for those needing a top-rated truck accident attorney in Fort Collins.
Understanding the Dangers of Truck Accidents in Fort Collins
Truck accidents are among the most catastrophic road incidents due to commercial trucks’ massive size and weight. A fully loaded truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making it significantly more dangerous than passenger vehicles in a collision.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), truck accidents account for nearly 10% of all fatal vehicle accidents in Colorado annually. This data underscores the need for experienced legal representation to handle these complex and high-stakes cases.
As your dedicated truck accident lawyer in Fort Collins, we understand the severity of these statistics. We are fully prepared to navigate the legal complexities that truck accident cases often entail.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Understanding the common causes of truck accidents can help strengthen a case for compensation. Many truck accidents are preventable but often result from negligence or error by the driver or trucking company.
Here are several primary causes of truck accidents in Fort Collins:
- Driver Fatigue: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) restricts a truck driver’s hours on the road without rest. However, despite regulations, fatigue remains a significant issue. According to the FMCSA, fatigued drivers are one of the leading causes of truck accidents.
- Distracted Driving: With long hours on the road, some truck drivers fall into risky habits, such as using mobile devices or onboard technologies, leading to momentary distractions that have devastating consequences.
- Improper Loading: Trucks must be loaded correctly to maintain balance and stability. If cargo is improperly secured or overloaded, it can cause the truck to become unbalanced and roll over or jackknife.
- Mechanical Failures: Commercial trucks require regular maintenance. However, some companies neglect upkeep, leading to mechanical issues that can cause accidents. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), brake failure is a factor in 29% of all large-truck crashes.
At Levine Law, we thoroughly investigate each truck accident case, gathering evidence and building a solid foundation to prove negligence. With our background and experience, we ensure all possible accident causes are explored, and we hold the responsible parties accountable.
Fort Collins Truck Accident Laws and Your Rights
Colorado law entitles truck accident victims to seek compensation for their injuries and damages if the accident resulted from another party’s negligence. However, truck accident cases can be complex, as they often involve multiple potentially liable parties, such as the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, or even manufacturers.
Modified Comparative Negligence in Colorado: Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which allows accident victims to recover damages as long as they are 49% or less responsible for the accident. If a victim is partially at fault, their compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault. This legal framework is crucial for truck accident cases, where multiple parties may share responsibility for the incident (source).
As a top-rated accident attorney in Fort Collins, we carefully analyze the facts of each case to ensure our clients are not unfairly assigned a higher percentage of fault. Our goal is to maximize the compensation you receive.
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What to Do After a Truck Accident in Fort Collins
After a truck accident, your actions can significantly affect your ability to pursue compensation. Here are the essential steps to take:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: A medical evaluation is essential, even if injuries seem minor. Injuries can worsen over time, and medical documentation is critical evidence in a personal injury claim.
- Report the Accident: In Colorado, it’s mandatory to report accidents that result in injury or significant property damage. The police report will serve as a valuable record of the incident.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and other relevant details. Also, collect witness contact information.
- Contact Us: As your trusted accident attorney in Fort Collins, we can handle all aspects of your claim, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies.
How a Fort Collins Truck Accident Attorney Can Help
Truck accident claims involve unique complexities that make them challenging for the average person to handle alone. These cases are often subject to various regulations, including federal trucking laws, state laws, and industry standards.
Here’s how we help:
- Thorough Accident Investigation: We conduct a comprehensive investigation of your case, analyzing evidence like driver logs, maintenance records, and electronic logging device data to prove negligence.
- Expert Negotiation with Insurers: Insurance companies often try to reduce payouts, but we won’t let them minimize your claim. Our skilled negotiators work tirelessly to ensure you receive a fair settlement covering all damages, from medical expenses to lost wages and pain and suffering.
- Trial Representation: While we strive to reach fair settlements, we’re fully prepared to take your case to court if necessary. Our team has extensive trial experience and is ready to present a compelling case on your behalf.
Key Damages Available to Truck Accident Victims
As your Fort Collins truck accident attorney, our goal is to secure the maximum compensation available under the law. In Colorado, truck accident victims may be eligible for several types of damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: This includes past, present, and future medical bills related to the accident, such as surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, and prescription medication.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and, in some cases, diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: Colorado allows truck accident victims to pursue non-economic damages for pain, suffering, and emotional distress resulting from the accident.
- Property Damage: You may receive compensation for repairing or replacing your vehicle.
Each case is unique, and we personalize our approach to reflect your specific needs and damages. Our team is here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for every dollar you deserve.
Why Choose Us as Your Fort Collins Truck Accident Lawyer?
Our commitment to our clients and in-depth knowledge of truck accident cases have earned us a reputation as a top-rated truck accident attorney in Fort Collins.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Extensive Experience: With years of handling truck accident cases, we know how to approach the nuances involved and understand the applicable local and federal laws.
- Personalized Service: We prioritize your well-being and make it a point to keep you informed at every stage of your case. You’ll work directly with our team, who will answer your questions and keep you updated on the progress of your claim.
- Proven Track Record: Our history of successful settlements and verdicts speaks to our ability to deliver results for our clients.
Contact Your Fort Collins Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident and are looking for a truck accident lawyer near me in Fort Collins, we are here to help. At Levine Law, we are dedicated to standing by your side and fighting for the compensation you deserve. Call us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the first step toward recovery.
Don’t wait – contact us today to get started on your case.
