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Charlotte Truck Accident Lawyers

Our Attorneys Help Victims Get the Compensation They Deserve

Big-rigs, 18-wheelers, and other large commercial trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, so it's no surprise that when they collide with smaller, lighter passenger vehicles — which typically weigh between 3,000 and 6,000 pounds — the results can be devastating. Sadly, horrific truck-and-passenger-vehicle collisions are a regular occurrence in both North Carolina and across the country, despite regulatory attempts to curtail accidents.

Where Truck Accidents Often Occur in Charlotte

Truck accidents are a notable concern in Charlotte, NC, reflecting a growing trend across urban and suburban areas. These incidents occur with unsettling regularity, often resulting from factors such as congested traffic conditions, the presence of construction zones, and, occasionally, adverse weather conditions. Additionally, the intersection of major transportation routes in the Charlotte area contributes to the frequency of truck accidents, as increased truck traffic heightens the possibility of collisions.

Among the most perilous areas for truck accidents in Charlotte, several roads and intersections stand out for their notorious reputation. The intersection of I-85 with I-77 is particularly dangerous due to the high volume of both truck and passenger vehicle traffic navigating this major crossroads. Additionally, The Brookshire Freeway (I-277) sees frequent truck accidents, attributed to its role as a primary artery circling the city's downtown area, leading to heavy traffic congestion especially during peak hours. Independence Boulevard (US-74) is another hotspot for truck-related incidents, with its mix of local and through traffic, combined with ongoing construction projects, creating challenging driving conditions. These areas are critical focal points for transportation safety initiatives in Charlotte.

Types of Truck Accidents

Large trucks can be involved in many types of motor vehicle accidents, including head-on collisions, T-bone crashes, rear-end accidents, rollovers, blind-spot wrecks, and tire blowouts. However, while some truck accidents can be categorized as common types of crashes made more horrifying by a truck's size and weight, others are unique to large trucks and belong in a nightmarish category all their own.

Examples include:

  • Jackknife accidents
  • Wide “swinging turn” crashes
  • Underride collisions

Common Truck Accident Causes

Truck accidents have a number of causes, the vast majority of which are preventable. 

The most common truck accident causes include:​

  • Driver fatigue
  • Distracted driving
  • Driving under the influence (DUI)
  • Drugged driving
  • Aggressive driving
  • Insufficient driver training
  • Improperly loaded cargo
  • Inadequate truck maintenance
  • Negligent trucking company hiring practices

Local Resources for Truck Accidents in Charlotte

Truck accidents in Charlotte pose significant risks due to the city's bustling traffic and major highways. Understanding the resources available to victims can aid in recovery and legal processes.

Emergency Services

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD)

  • Emergency: 911
  • Non-Emergency: 311
  • Website: CMPD

Mecklenburg EMS Agency (Medic)

Medical Facilities

Carolinas Medical Center

Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center

Financial Assistance

Crisis Assistance Ministry

  • Services: Provides emergency financial assistance and support for families in crisis.
  • Address: 500-A Spratt St, Charlotte, NC 28206
  • Phone: (704) 371-3001
  • Website: Crisis Assistance Ministry

Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte

  • Services: Offers financial aid and support services to individuals and families in need.
  • Address: 1123 S Church St, Charlotte, NC 28203
  • Phone: (704) 370-3262
  • Website: Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte

Additional Resources

North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT)

  • Services: Provides information on road conditions, closures, and traffic updates.
  • Website: NCDOT

Filing a Truck Accident Lawsuit in North Carolina

State statute of limitations laws determine just how long you have to file a truck accident lawsuit. In North Carolina, truck accident victims have three years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit in civil court.

Waiting too long to file your lawsuit can seriously damage your case, even if you don't allow the statute of limitations to expire (which would result in the dismissal of the case). Evidence can get misplaced or destroyed, witnesses may become unreachable, and the defense attorney may claim that if your injuries were really serious, you would have acted faster.

Contact us today at (980) 246-2656 to discuss the details of your case.

Injuries Associated with Truck Accidents

Truck crash injuries can be catastrophic. If victims aren’t killed, they are often left with permanent, life-altering injuries. 

Some common types of truck accident injuries are:

  • ​Lacerations
  • Contusions
  • Broken or crushed bones
  • Internal injuries
  • Burns
  • Spinal cord injuries, including paralysis of varying degrees
  • Head and brain traumas, such as concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
  • Amputations
  • Death
  • And More

If you were severely injured in a truck accident caused by a negligent commercial truck driver or trucking company, you may be entitled to compensation.

How Are Truck Accidents Different From Car Accidents?

Truck accidents differ significantly from car accidents in terms of severity, complexity, and legal considerations. These differences highlight the importance of having an experienced truck accident attorney to guide victims through the process.

Increased Severity of Injuries:

Trucks are substantially larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, resulting in greater force during collisions. This often leads to more severe injuries or fatalities for those involved. Victims may require long-term medical care, resulting in higher damages and more complex compensation claims.

Regulatory Oversight:

Truck drivers and trucking companies are subject to extensive federal and state regulations, including hours-of-service rules, weight limits, and maintenance requirements. Understanding these laws is crucial to building a strong case. Violations of these regulations can serve as critical evidence in determining liability.

Multiple Parties Involved:

As outlined earlier, liability in truck accidents may extend to several parties beyond the driver, including the trucking company, maintenance providers, and manufacturers. This makes the investigation and negotiation process more intricate.

Insurance Considerations:

Trucking companies often carry large insurance policies to cover potential damages. However, insurers may aggressively dispute claims to minimize payouts. Navigating these disputes requires a skilled attorney who understands the tactics employed by large insurance companies.

Truck accidents demand a thorough investigation and a comprehensive legal strategy. For victims, the stakes are often much higher than in standard car accidents, making experienced legal representation essential. If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Charlotte, we are here to provide the dedicated support and advocacy you deserve.

Potential Damages in Truck Accident Cases

The effects of a serious truck accident can last a lifetime. Victims may require extensive medical treatment, assistive care, and other support services — the cost of which can quickly mount. Fortunately, in North Carolina, you can seek compensation for economic and non-economic damages such as:

  • Accident-related medical expenses, including future medical care and medical-related travel costs
  • Property damage to your vehicle
  • Lost wages
  • Loss of earning potential, if applicable
  • Physical pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
  • Scarring or disfigurement
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • And more

Truck accident victims injured in crashes caused by intoxicated commercial drivers may also be eligible for a third type of compensation known as punitive damages.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident?

Truck accidents often involve multiple parties, making the determination of liability a complex process. Unlike car accidents, where fault is usually attributed to the drivers involved, truck accidents may include several entities responsible for ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.

The Truck Driver:

The most apparent liable party is the truck driver. If the accident was caused by reckless driving, speeding, distracted driving, driving under the influence, or fatigue, the driver could be held responsible. Federal regulations limit the number of hours a truck driver can operate without rest, and violations of these rules may point to negligence.

The Trucking Company:

The company employing the driver could share liability, especially if it failed to conduct proper background checks, neglected driver training, or pushed the driver to violate hours-of-service rules. Trucking companies are also responsible for maintaining their fleets. Poor maintenance leading to equipment failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts, may place liability on the company.

Cargo Loaders:

Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can destabilize a truck, increasing the risk of accidents. Companies responsible for loading cargo must ensure compliance with weight limits and securement procedures. A cargo shift during transit could implicate these entities in an accident.

Manufacturers:

Faulty truck parts, such as defective brakes, tires, or steering mechanisms, can lead to catastrophic failures. In such cases, the manufacturer of the defective component may be held responsible for the damages.

Learn more about how our Charlotte truck accident lawyers can help you by calling (980) 246-2656 or contacting us online today!

 

Consult Our Experienced Truck Accident Attorneys in Charlotte

There's a lot at stake after a serious truck accident, which is why attorneys handle truck accident cases differently than a standard vehicle crash. The injuries and other losses in a truck crash are often more serious, leading to the potential for higher financial awards. While minor car accident cases can be handled without legal representation, truck accident cases require significant skill.

Shane Smith Law has helped countless North Carolinians obtain the compensation they deserve after being injured in a truck accident.