If you've recently been injured in an accident involving a semi-truck, you're probably already thinking about contacting a big rig accident lawyer — but at the same time, you may be unsure of what to expect and how your case will be handled. Proving negligence is often an important part of securing compensation for financial losses sustained as the result of an accident involving a semi.
In legal terms, negligence refers to a failure to behave with the level of care that a reasonable person would have exercised under the same circumstances. In the aftermath of a big rig accident, proving negligence is typically the cornerstone of a personal injury lawsuit. The party bringing the lawsuit—or plaintiff—usually needs to demonstrate that the truck driver, trucking company, or another party was negligent, and this negligence resulted in the accident.
Here's what you need to know about how a big rig accident claim attorney can help you prove negligence after an accident:
Role of an Attorney in Uncovering Negligence
Attorneys play a crucial role in uncovering evidence of negligence in big rig accidents. This process can involve gathering and analyzing extensive documentation, such as the truck driver's logbooks, maintenance records, employment history, and the trucking company's policies and procedures. They may also investigate whether the truck was overloaded or improperly loaded, which could indicate negligence on the part of the trucking company or loading personnel.
Applying the Law to Prove Negligence
Experienced attorneys understand how to apply relevant laws and regulations to the evidence they uncover. This could include federal and state trucking regulations, traffic laws, or principles of common law. By applying the law to the evidence, an attorney can build a strong case to demonstrate that the defendant failed to exercise reasonable care and was, therefore, negligent.
Expert Witnesses and Their Role in Proving Negligence
Often, an attorney will work with expert witnesses to strengthen the negligence claim. These witnesses might include accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, or industry experts who can provide insight into standard trucking practices. Their testimony can provide the necessary context and credibility to prove negligence in a big rig accident.
Advocacy in Court or Settlement Negotiations
Once your attorney has built a strong case for negligence, they can advocate on your behalf, either in court or during settlement negotiations. Their goal is to ensure you receive the compensation you're entitled to for your medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Contact a big rig accident claim attorney in your area for the representation you require.
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