If a large, commercial truck collided with your car in Chesterfield, VA, you’re likely dealing with significant injuries and losses. You need an experienced Chesterfield truck accident lawyer to help you navigate the complex claims process and fight for the compensation and justice you deserve.
At Allen & Allen, we’re committed to protecting your rights and doing all we can to maximize your financial recovery following a devastating truck crash. With decades of experience handling truck accident cases in Chesterfield and throughout Virginia, we have the knowledge and resources to build a strong case for you and improve your chances of getting the maximum compensation available.
Contact us today for a free case evaluation. We’ll review your claim, advise you of your options, and explain how we can help you hold the at-fault party accountable and recover damages. Your fight is our fight, and you can rely on us for compassionate counsel and aggressive advocacy each step of the way.
Chesterfield Truck Accident Guide
- Why Allen & Allen Is the Right Choice for Your Chesterfield Truck Accident Claim
- How We Investigate Your Truck Accident Case
- Chesterfield and Virginia Truck Accident Statistics
- Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Chesterfield
- Types of Truck Accident Injuries
- How Do I Know if I Have a Truck Accident Case?
- Determining Liability in Truck Accident Cases
- Compensation We Can Help You Recover
- Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Truck Accident in Chesterfield
- What You Need to Do After a Truck Crash to Protect Your Rights and Interests
- Chesterfield Truck Accident FAQs
- Contact an Experienced Chesterfield Truck Accident Attorney Now
Why Allen & Allen Is the Right Choice for Your Chesterfield Truck Accident Claim
When you choose Allen & Allen to represent you in your truck accident case, you’re selecting a firm with a long-standing commitment to serving Virginia’s communities. Our history dates back to 1910, making us one of the oldest and most established personal injury law firms in the state.
Our attorneys have recovered substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients over the years. Some recent successes include:
- $7.6 million for a multi-car crash a tractor-trailer initially caused
- $3.35 million for a client severely injured when an 18-wheeler lost control and slammed into their vehicle
- $2 million for a client seriously injured in a semi-truck collision
Although we can’t guarantee outcomes, our track record shows we strive to recover maximum compensation for our clients.
The legal community has recognized our firm’s excellence through numerous awards and honors. Many of our attorneys have been named to the Super Lawyers list, a distinction given to only 5% of lawyers in the state. We’ve also received the highest possible rating from Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting our peers’ opinion of our professional excellence and ethical standards.
What truly sets us apart, however, is our dedication to our clients. We understand that behind every case is a person struggling with pain, medical bills, and lost wages. Perhaps a truck accident killed a close family member, which is the most difficult and heart-wrenching situation to face.
Our attorneys approach each case with compassion and care, treating our clients like family members rather than case numbers. When you work with Allen & Allen, you get more than just an attorney—you gain a legal ally who is focused on your best interests and dedicated to helping you get the best possible results.
How We Investigate Your Truck Accident Case
Our team at Allen & Allen begins with a thorough investigation into the crash. We start by visiting the accident scene, documenting evidence, and taking photographs. We also obtain police reports, witness statements, and any available video footage of the crash. Our attorneys work with accident reconstruction experts to create a detailed picture of how the accident occurred and who bears responsibility.
In truck accident cases, we delve deeper into the trucking company’s records. We examine the driver’s logbooks, training records, and employment history. We also investigate the truck’s maintenance records and the company’s safety practices. This comprehensive approach allows us to identify all potentially liable parties and build the strongest possible case for our clients.
We use the extent of our resources and our knowledge and experience to examine the circumstances of your accident and determine liability. We exhaust all avenues of potential compensation to ensure you get the full amount you need.
Chesterfield and Virginia Truck Accident Statistics
Truck accidents pose a significant danger on Chesterfield’s roads and throughout Virginia. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks make collisions with passenger vehicles particularly devastating.
According to the latest crash data from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles:
- 5,664 total crashes occurred involving commercial motor vehicles.
- 2,981 crashes involved large trucks.
- Collectively, 2,844 people sustained injuries in commercial truck accidents in Virginia, and 176 people died.
In Chesterfield County alone, there were 102 crashes involving large trucks, resulting in 2 fatalities and 43 injuries.
Between 82% and 85% of all fatalities in commercial truck crashes involved occupants of other vehicles, usually smaller passenger vehicles. Almost 61% of Virginia’s fatal truck accidents occur on interstate highways.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Chesterfield
Truck accidents can occur for various reasons, often involving negligence on the part of the truck driver, the trucking company, or other parties. Some common causes include:
- Driver fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to drowsy driving, slowed reflexes, and poor decision-making.
- Distracted driving: Using a phone, eating, or adjusting the radio can take a driver’s attention off the road.
- Speeding or aggressive driving: Trying to meet tight deadlines can lead to reckless behavior on the road.
- Improper loading: Overloaded or improperly secured cargo can cause trucks to tip over or lose their loads.
- Poor maintenance: Neglecting to maintain brakes, tires, and other critical components can lead to mechanical failures.
- Inadequate training: Inexperienced or poorly trained drivers may not know how to handle their vehicles safely in all conditions.
- Drug or alcohol use: Substance abuse impairs a driver’s ability to operate their vehicle safely.
- Weather conditions: Rain, snow, or fog can make driving hazardous, especially for large trucks.
Types of Truck Accident Injuries
Truck accidents often result in severe injuries due to the size and weight disparity between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Internal organ damage
- Severe burns
- Amputations
- Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries
- Psychological trauma, including PTSD
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care. Our Chesterfield truck accident lawyers work diligently to ensure our clients receive compensation that covers all their current and future medical needs.
How Do I Know if I Have a Truck Accident Case?
If you sustained injuries or losses in a truck accident, you may wonder if you have grounds for a legal claim. Generally, a valid personal injury case hinges on three key factors:
- Someone acted negligently or recklessly. In truck accident cases, this could be the truck driver, the trucking company, a parts manufacturer, or another party.
- You suffered injuries or losses as a result of this negligence. This includes physical injuries, emotional distress, lost wages, and property damage.
- There’s a source of compensation available, typically an insurance policy or the at-fault party’s personal assets.
If these elements are present in your situation, you likely have a valid truck accident case. However, every case is unique, and you must consult a Chesterfield truck accident lawyer to evaluate the specifics of your situation.
Determining Liability in Truck Accident Cases
Establishing liability in truck accident cases often involves multiple parties. Potential defendants may include:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The cargo loading company
- The truck or parts manufacturer
- Government entities responsible for road maintenance
Our attorneys conduct thorough investigations to identify all potentially liable parties. This approach ensures we pursue all available avenues of compensation for our clients.
Compensation We Can Help You Recover
After our attorneys help you successfully resolve your claim or obtain a favorable verdict at trial, you could receive various forms of compensation, such as:
- Medical expenses (past, current, and future)
- Lost wages and income, which can include bonuses and commissions
- Loss of earning capacity for permanent disabilities that affect your work
- Pain and suffering, emotional distress, mental anguish, and other non-economic damages
- Property damage
- Loss of enjoyment of life and loss of consortium
In cases of fatal accidents, we can help eligible surviving family members pursue wrongful death damages. In rare cases of egregious negligence or intentional harm, the court may also award punitive damages.
Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Truck Accident in Chesterfield
After a truck accident, you’ll likely need to deal with insurance companies. Remember, insurance adjusters work for the insurance company, not for you. Their goal is to minimize the amount the company pays out.
Insurance companies may use various tactics to reduce your claim’s value. They might try to get you to admit fault, downplay your injuries, or pressure you into accepting a quick, low settlement offer.
Our experienced Chesterfield truck accident lawyers can handle all communications with insurance companies on your behalf. We know their tactics and how to counter them. We can ensure they don’t take advantage of you during this vulnerable time and protect your rights and interests if they devalue your claim or try to place blame on you.
What You Need to Do After a Truck Crash to Protect Your Rights and Interests
If you’re recovering from a truck accident and wondering about your next steps, here’s what you should do:
- Continue following your doctor’s treatment plan. This helps your recovery and demonstrates the seriousness of your injuries.
- Keep all medical records and bills related to your injuries. Your attorney will use this as evidence in your case.
- Document your recovery process. Keep a journal detailing your pain levels, limitations, and how the injuries affect your daily life. This can be powerful testimony for pain and suffering damages.
- Don’t discuss your accident or injuries on social media. Insurance companies may use your posts against you.
- Don’t give recorded statements to insurance companies without consulting a lawyer first.
- Contact a Chesterfield truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. Early legal representation can protect your rights and improve your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Remember, the sooner you involve a lawyer, the better. We can start gathering evidence, dealing with insurance companies, and building your case while you focus on your recovery.
Chesterfield Truck Accident FAQs
How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in Virginia?
In Virginia, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including truck accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, there may be exceptions depending on the specifics of your case. If a city-owned truck or poor road maintenance caused the truck crash, you only have six months to have an attorney file a notice of claim for you. Speak with a lawyer right away to ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines.
What if the trucking company is based in another state?
Many trucking companies operate across state lines. Our attorneys have handled many cases involving out-of-state trucking companies. We know the federal regulations that govern the trucking industry and are familiar with many state trucking laws.
Why are truck accident claims more complicated than other injury claims?
Truck accident cases are often more complex than other personal injury cases due to intricate federal and state regulations, multiple potentially liable parties, and the severe injuries and damage they cause. You must have an experienced truck accident attorney represent you to have the best chance of getting a successful outcome.
What if the truck driver said I partially caused the crash?
If the truck driver, trucking company, or their insurance companies try to blame you for the crash, it can significantly affect your ability to obtain compensation in Virginia. You must have skilled legal representation to protect your rights and argue against any claims of fault on your part.
How much is my truck accident case worth?
The value of a truck accident case varies widely depending on many factors. These include the severity of your injuries and the long-term effect they will have on your life. Other factors influence the types and amounts of compensation you receive as well. Our attorneys can provide a more accurate estimate after thoroughly reviewing your case.
Contact an Experienced Chesterfield Truck Accident Attorney Now
We know you’re overwhelmed dealing with the aftermath of a preventable truck accident in Chesterfield. The good news is that you don’t have to face this ordeal alone.
At Allen & Allen, we’re committed to making your fight our fight. You can trust our legal team including our experienced Chesterfield personal injury attorneys to stand by your side, fight for your rights, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
We bring decades of experience, a track record of success, and a commitment to compassionate, client-focused representation. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial strain you’re under, and we’re here to help shoulder that burden.
Don’t let the trucking company or their insurers take advantage of you. Contact Allen & Allen today at 866-388-1307 for a free consultation. Remember, you pay nothing upfront, and we only receive attorney fees if we recover compensation for you.