They’re everywhere in America, and especially in Charleston. The bustling economy means that more freight of all kinds is being shipped throughout the US. From consumer goods bought through e-commerce to everyday needs like food, fuel and medicine, big trucks are on nearly every road in America delivering the goods.
Accidents With An 18-Wheeler
Unfortunately, with all that freight, accidents with cars can happen at any time. An accident with an 18-wheeler is much more complicated than an accident with another car. Unlike a simple car accident, there may be multiple parties involved, such as:
- The driver, who may or may not work for the trucking company
- The trucking company, who may subcontract their freight through the independent owner-operator
- The manufacturer of the freight being hauled
- The shipper of the freight being hauled (improper packing, etc.)
- The maintenance company responsible for the truck’s upkeep
- The tire, parts or truck manufacturer responsible for a defective part
- The local entity responsible for defective or hazardous roads
Injuries tend to be more severe and debilitating, with a higher risk of fatalities.
If you hire an attorney who isn’t familiar with the large number of people and entities involved, you could lose out on a significant amount of compensation.
Evaluating Lawyers To Find The Right One
While it’s easy to make “one call” to a law firm that advertises on TV, it may not be the best option for your particular case. Instead, free consultations should be considered a two-way street, and you interview the 18-wheeler accident lawyer just as he or she will interview you. They meet with you to evaluate your case, and you consider if you want to work with this attorney, their paralegal, assistant and the rest of the law firm staff. It’s also important that you and the attorney are both on the same page.
Some other things to consider:
- Personality and temperament—is this someone you can work with on a very personal part of your life? Do you feel comfortable telling him or her very personal details?
- Is this attorney experienced in 18-wheeler accidents? Because there are so many more “moving parts” involved, a personal injury attorney who handles car crashes and slip and falls may not have the detailed knowledge of big truck cases. Ask about similar cases that they’ve won and settled before you sign up with them.
- Investigating the accident will likely involve expert witnesses and others experienced in accident reconstruction. Ask about his resource team, and if he or she has the resources to involve these experts before you are awarded a settlement.
- Think about the way you were treated when you called and/or visited this law firm. Did you feel like they were busy but took care of you? Or did you feel like you were going through a casting call? The way you are treated at the start may be an indicator of how you’ll be treated throughout your case. If you didn’t feel like your case was important, this may be an indicator to find another law firm.
Finding the right 18-wheeler accident lawyer to handle your case is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. It’s critical that you find the right one, not just any lawyer. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have with a free consultation.
What About The Lawyer Who Calls Me?
If you’re approached by an 18-wheeler accident lawyer offering to “help” you, decline them. Lawyers aren’t supposed to be trolling for new clients by watching the news or hanging around accident sites, and violate ethics rules when they do. Hang up or toss their business card. The right lawyer won’t harass you to convince you to sign on with their firm.
Your 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer Right Here In Charleston
The Love Law Firm understands how complicated an 18-wheeler accident can be, and will work aggressively to protect your rights and defend you against malicious insurance companies. Call us today at (304) 344 5683, or use our online contact form to make your appointment.
Your consultation is free, and we only collect after we win your case and get you the settlement you need. Call us today.