Goodyear Truck Accident Lawyer

Commercial trucks are a constant in Goodyear. The nearby presence of busy distribution centers means freight is always in transit along the area’s busy roads. While commercial freight carriers like 18-wheelers make safe trips every day, accidents are always a possibility. Given the size and weight of these vehicles, the consequences of a collision are often drastic. If you’ve been affected by an accident, a Goodyear, AZ, truck accident lawyer can help.

The Bleaman Law Firm, PC, is well-known throughout the area for helping personal injury victims navigate the legal process. With a detailed understanding of truck accident laws, plus a commitment to client outcomes, this is a legal team you can trust when you’ve been in an accident. While the sheer size of trucks can be intimidating, a legal firm can help with your truck accident case.

Understanding Federal and State Truck Accident Laws

Commercial vehicles are crucial to Arizona’s economy and to the nation as a whole. That’s why both state and federal laws exist to govern commercial truck operations. According to Arizona law, drivers are responsible for giving their information at the scene of an accident they’re involved in and cannot leave the scene beforehand.

Title 17 of the Arizona Administrative Code details standards for commercial driver’s licenses, which have more stringent requirements than normal passenger driver’s licenses. Title 49 in the Code of Federal Regulations also governs interstate commercial operations, meaning even out-of-state drivers have a responsibility to travel safely and lawfully on Arizona’s roads.

How Truck Accidents Commonly Happen in Goodyear

Goodyear brings plenty of commercial freight activity, especially on popular commercial corridors like I-10, the distribution center of Loop 303, and the always-busy MC-85. Even a small mistake by one of the many drivers in these areas can lead to an accident. Common causes of collisions include:

• Turns being too wide or narrow, and swinging into other lanes or sidewalks
• Entering roads not designed for commercial vehicles, resulting in tight turns, low clearance, or sudden stops
• Rollbacks after stopping on inclines, at stop signs, or at red lights
• Unsafe lane changes without checking a commercial vehicle’s large blind spots
• Driver fatigue due to a driver skipping designated rest breaks
• Overloaded or improperly secured cargo that spills or destabilizes the trailer
• Drivers losing control in high winds or on slippery roads
• Mechanical defects due to poor maintenance or outdated equipment
• Distracted or impaired driving from substance or electronics use
• Following too closely makes it impossible to stop a fully loaded truck in time
• Improperly trained drivers who are unskilled or unlicensed

These are just some of the factors that can cause a commercial truck accident. Often, it’s a split-second mistake by one or more individuals that causes these collisions. If you’ve suffered because of a truck accident, a Goodyear truck accident attorney can help.

How a Lawyer Can Help After a Truck Accident

When you’ve been involved in a truck accident, you may feel shaken, confused, and overwhelmed. When you hire a truck accident lawyer, they can bring clarity to the situation.

One of the first steps they can take is gathering evidence. This may include driver ELD data, maintenance records, GPS tracking information, traffic camera footage, and witness testimonies from those at the accident scene.

They can also provide case-specific guidance tailored toward your interests. This means standing by you at any court appearances and handling negotiations with insurance and trucking companies. Given their knowledge of how these companies often try to avoid accountability or minimize settlements, they can anticipate and counter such tactics.

A Look at Truck Accident Statistics

There are about 13.5 million commercial trucks in the U.S., including 2.97 million tractor-trailers. In 2023, Arizona reported 155 total truck accident fatalities per 100,000 people. At the national level, about 388,000 truck accidents are reported each year, accounting for about 6.5% of all vehicular collisions.

FAQs

Where Are Truck Accident Cases Heard in Goodyear?

In Goodyear, truck accident cases are typically heard in Maricopa County Superior Court. When you hire a truck accident lawyer, they can help you learn more about court schedules and locations. They can also advise you on the details of your case, including what to expect, how to answer questions, and what verdict you should work toward together.

How Long Does a Truck Accident Case Take?

A truck accident case can vary in length depending on several factors. The court’s initial backlog can be the first point of delay. Cases may also be extended if additional time is needed to acquire evidence, such as from trucking companies, highway authorities, or medical organizations. This evidence can assess injuries, property damage, and accident scene details.

What Should You Do Right After a Truck Accident?

Right after a truck accident, you should be mindful of your surroundings as you get to a safe location, then call the police to report the accident. You should also consider seeking medical treatment. Some injuries aren’t apparent immediately due to the adrenaline spike after an accident, but medical examinations can help you spot and treat injuries early. Medical reports can also be valuable evidence in court.

What Factors Can Impact a Truck Accident Settlement?

A truck accident settlement can be impacted by several factors. These include driver negligence, trucking company negligence, and the extent of the damage. Courts may consider property damage, bodily injuries, current and future medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more.

Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer

A truck accident can be catastrophic to your health. You may face severe injuries, mounting medical bills, and frustrating lifestyle changes. However, you’re not alone. The Bleaman Law Firm, PC, brings a skilled team of caring, dedicated professionals who are ready to support you.

With over two decades of service to the people of Arizona and many positive reviews, this is a law firm that injury victims can turn to. When you’re ready to get started discussing your truck accident case, reach out today.

Goodyear Truck Accident Lawyer Reviews