Truck Accident Lawyers in Phoenix

Experienced Attorneys Fighting for the Compensation You Deserve in Phoenix. Call (602) 483-6114.

Alex Law has a history of representing trucking accident claims for over 43 years. Using years of experience and in-depth knowledge, Alex Law has obtained consistently remarkable results for their clients.

Trailer accidents are generally complex and accident victims are often seriously and permanently injured. The key to maintaining an independent and dignified life (as opposed to a life of charity) after a serious tractor-trailer accident is the quality of your attorney.

The Phoenix truck accident lawyers at Alex Law may be reached at (602) 483-6114 for a free consultation. Hablamos español.

Handling Commercial Trucking Accident Claims Since 1974

>An accident involving an 18-wheeler, tractor-trailer, or semi-truck is often life-altering, and sometimes fatal for occupants of a passenger vehicle or pedestrians involved in the accident. Tractor-trailer accidents are typically far more complex than car accident cases due to the sheer number of laws, regulations, and factors that they usually involve.

These complexities necessitate the involvement of a seasoned attorney who understands not only the logistical challenges of handling such a claim but also the emotional toll it can take on victims and their families. The legal process involves navigating federal and state regulations, insurance negotiations, and often, pursuing litigation to ensure rightful compensation. Our commitment extends beyond legal representation; we strive to ease the emotional burden for our clients by providing compassionate guidance and support every step of the way.

A tractor-trailer can weigh more than 80,000 pounds and be up to 75 feet in length. According to the United States Department of Transportation (US DOT), out of 500,000 tractor-trailer accidents each year, about 5,000 are fatal.

Many tractor-trailer accidents are caused by driver fatigue, distractions, defective products, and any number of other factors.

According to Dan Ramsdell, the National Director of The Association of Plaintiff Interstate Trucking Lawyers (APITLAmerica), one of the most pressing problems in the trucking industry today is fatigued driving, with nearly 40 percent of big truck crashes being caused by or contributed to by a fatigued driver.

Fatigued driving remains a critical issue due to the demanding schedules imposed on drivers by trucking companies. Despite federal regulations on hours of service, many drivers exceed these limits under pressure to meet deadlines, compromising safety. Addressing this issue requires not only legal action but also systemic changes within the industry to prioritize driver welfare and road safety. Our firm advocates for both our clients and broader policy changes to mitigate these risks.

A member of our firm can help determine whether the accident was caused by a fatigued truck driver and, if so, you may be entitled to punitive damages in addition to compensatory losses.

Federal & Arizona State Trucking Regulations

The transportation industry is governed by a complex network of federal and state regulations designed to ensure safety on the roads. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets forth rules regarding hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and driver qualifications to minimize the risk of truck accidents. 

In Arizona, similar regulations are enacted and enforced, with specific attention to the unique conditions found in the state’s diverse landscapes. Understanding these regulations is crucial for holding negligent parties accountable and ensuring victims receive just compensation. Our team is well-versed in interpreting these rules and applying them strategically to support our clients’ interests.

Arizona also has unique considerations, such as desert terrain and high temperatures, impacting vehicle performance and driver fatigue. These conditions can influence accident causation and liability, making local legal knowledge invaluable. Our attorneys keep abreast of both federal and state legislative changes to provide informed representation tailored to the characteristics specific to Arizona cases. This dual understanding ensures that each claim is evaluated thoroughly, considering all regulatory implications.

Tractor-trailer accidents may involve multiple insurance companies, regulatory agencies, and law enforcement agencies. Trucking industry regulations allow victims of tractor-trailer accidents to bring claims against both the truck driver and the trucking company that employs or contracts with the driver. Check out our Truck Accident Lawsuit Guide for more information.

Turn to Alex Law when you need legal help after a truck accident. Call (602) 483-6114 or fill out our online contact form.

Experienced Attorneys Fighting for Clients Against Trucking Companies

Alex Law handles 18-wheeler and tractor-trailer claims for clients throughout Arizona, California, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, and Texas from our offices in the Phoenix area, and are happy to assist out-of-state firms in claims handled in Arizona courts. If you would like to arrange a free consultation with a truck accident attorney in Phoenix, please contact our firm today.

We have successfully recovered impressive settlements and verdicts on behalf of clients for losses in tractor-trailer accidents. The key to successful results is preserving critical evidence. It is important to retain an experienced trucking accident attorney as soon as possible.

>p class="cms-disabled">Moreover, early intervention is crucial as trucking companies often dispatch rapid response teams to accident sites. These teams aim to protect corporate interests by immediately gathering evidence favorable to the company. By engaging with us early, you ensure that your rights are protected and that we collect unbiased evidence that supports your claim. Our proactive approach ensures that you are not alone in facing the intimidating presence of large trucking corporations.

Keep in mind, national trucking companies immediately send a team of company investigators to the accident scene. They sometimes arrive at the scene at the same time as police and other emergency personnel.

Preserving Critical Evidence in Trucking Cases

Alex Law's investigators and expert reconstructionists often travel to the scene of the accident to gather their own data, including skid marks, accident debris, and other physical evidence at the scene. Eyewitnesses and the investigating police officers are interviewed as soon as possible while the information is fresh. Alex Law, P.C. will send a certified letter to the trucking company requiring the company to preserve critical evidence.

This meticulous approach to evidence collection is crucial in building a strong claim. The preserved evidence not only supports our client’s narrative but also counters any misleading documentation or arguments that may be presented by the defense. We understand that evidence integrity can significantly impact the case outcome, which is why we prioritize this in our strategy to win justice and due compensation for our clients.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Phoenix

Truck accidents in Phoenix frequently arise from a variety of causes, ranging from driver errors to mechanical failures. Speeding is a prevalent issue due to the pressure on drivers to meet strict schedules. This urgency can lead to reckless driving behaviors, increasing the likelihood of accidents. 

Additionally, vehicle maintenance plays a significant role, as consistent wear and tear on parts like brakes and tires can lead to catastrophic failures if not properly maintained. Arizona's climate, with intense heat and dusty conditions, further exacerbates these issues, requiring even more diligent upkeep of trucking equipment.

Beyond these factors, distracted driving constitutes a significant risk. Despite regulations prohibiting the use of mobile devices, some drivers persist in using phones, diverting their focus from the road. 

Moreover, the complex network of highways and urban centers in Phoenix adds to the potential for accidents, demanding heightened awareness and driving skills. Addressing these causes requires collaborative efforts from regulatory bodies, trucking companies, and legal advocates to reduce incidences and enhance safety for all road users.

This letter requests 21 items of evidence to be preserved, including:

• Duty status logs of the truck driver
• Black box data
• Fuel receipts
• Weight scale receipts
• Delivery gate receipts
• Bill of ladings
• Satellite position devices (GPS)
• Dispatch records and logs

Compensation for Trucking Accident Victims

Victims of a trucking accident are entitled to compensation for their:

• Injuries (often severe)
• Hospital
• Doctor
• Other medical bills
• Lost wages (including lost earning capacity)
• Pain and suffering (past and future)
• Permanent impairment and disfigurement

These compensatory damages are crucial in providing victims with the financial support needed to rebuild their lives. Beyond medical expenses, compensation covers lost wages, which can be extensive if injuries lead to long-term disability or impair earning potential. Pain and suffering, while harder to quantify, reflect the emotional and physical toll of the accident and are considered in determining fair compensation. Understanding the full extent of potential damages is key, and our firm works diligently to outline and pursue all avenues for recovery, ensuring that victims receive the full compensation they deserve.

The victim’s damages may change their life forever and help pay off medical expenses and lost earnings over the course of a lifetime.

If the trucking accident results in a fatality, Arizona’s wrongful death statute governs who can bring a claim, commonly referred to as statutory beneficiaries. The measure of damages for the statutory beneficiaries is complex and requires experts to establish the full value of the claim.

Comprehensive Legal Support for Other Commercial Vehicles

In addition to commercial tractor-trailer accidents, our lawyers are prepared to handle all commercial vehicle accidents including rock haulers, log trucks, box trucks, dump trucks, cement trucks, and construction vehicles.

Each type of commercial vehicle has its own set of safety standards and regulatory requirements. For instance, dump trucks and cement trucks often operate under specific loading regulations to prevent spillage, which can lead to hazardous road conditions. 

Construction vehicles, frequently present in urban areas, require strict adherence to safety protocols to ensure the safety of both workers and the public. Understanding these nuances is critical in effectively handling each claim, and our firm is adept at navigating the various legal landscapes these different vehicles present.

Your Team of Dedicated Experts

Tractor-trailer accidents are never routine and almost always require a team of leading professionals including accident reconstructionists, investigators, logbook examiners, doctors, vocational rehabilitation specialists, and economists to demonstrate the full value of our client’s claim.

This multidisciplinary approach ensures that each facet of the victim's losses is meticulously documented and presented. From reconstructing accident scenes to evaluating long-term economic impacts of injuries, our team builds a comprehensive picture of the incident. Whether dealing with physical evidence or calculating future financial needs, our experts are dedicated to providing authoritative insights that enhance the strength and credibility of our client's position. This collaborative effort maximizes the potential for securing the compensation our clients need and deserve.

Alex Law has the commitment and resources to assemble that team and take the case to trial, or appeal if necessary, to help recover maximum compensation for our client. When handling an injury or death claim from a truck accident, Alex Law, P.C. can send an investigator to the scene of the accident, often on the day, we take your case, to see that evidence is preserved and witness statements are recorded while memories are fresh. 

It is important to retain a proven tractor-trailer accident attorney—one with experience in these complex claims—as soon as possible. Contact our firm today by calling (602) 483-6114 to schedule your initial, no-obligation consultation!

Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents in Phoenix

What Should I Do Immediately After a Truck Accident?

In the immediate aftermath of a truck accident, the safety and well-being of yourself and others should be your top priority. Call emergency services to report the accident and request medical attention for any injuries. It's crucial to gather as much information as possible while at the scene. 

Take photos of the accident site, vehicle damages, and any visible injuries. Collect contact details from other involved parties and witnesses, and make sure to obtain the truck driver's information including their employer and insurance details. This documentation can be vital for your claim later.

Avoid making detailed statements about fault or discussing the accident in depth with others at the scene, as these statements might be used later. After securing the necessary information and receiving medical attention, it's advisable to contact an attorney experienced in truck accidents to secure legal advice tailored to your situation. Early engagement with legal representation can ensure your rights are protected and help you navigate the claims process more effectively.

How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Claim in Arizona?

In Arizona, the statute of limitations for filing a truck accident claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means you must initiate legal proceedings within this period to preserve your right to seek compensation. There are specific circumstances that can alter this timeframe, such as when a government entity is involved, which may reduce the period to six months for filing a formal claim against the state.

Because the timeline for filing claims can vary based on the specifics of your incident, it's crucial to act promptly. Consulting with an experienced truck accident attorney as soon as possible helps ensure you comply with all deadlines and legal requirements. They can also assist in gathering evidence and building a strong argument within the given timeframe, maximizing your chances of a successful outcome.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident?

Liability in truck accidents can extend beyond the truck driver to include several parties, depending on the specifics of the incident. The trucking company may be held accountable, especially if the accident resulted from negligent hiring practices, poor vehicle maintenance, or pushing drivers beyond regulated hours of service. Manufacturers of truck parts can also be liable if a defect contributed to the accident, as can the company responsible for loading the cargo if improper loading practices played a role.

Determining liability is a complex process that requires thorough investigation and understanding of trucking industry regulations. Engaging an attorney with experience in handling truck accident claims ensures that all potentially liable parties are identified and pursued, which is crucial for securing full compensation for losses and damages incurred from the accident.

What Types of Compensation Are Available After a Truck Accident?

Compensation after a truck accident typically includes both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover tangible costs such as medical expenses, rehabilitation fees, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages compensate for more subjective losses like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded. These are intended to punish particularly egregious conduct and deter future misconduct. Understanding the full spectrum of available compensation can be challenging, but an attorney can help quantify your losses and craft a compelling claim strategy. This will aim to recover all damages applicable to your situation, ensuring you receive the fullest extent of compensation possible under the law.

How Are Truck Accident Claims Different from Car Accident Claims?

Truck accident claims differ markedly from standard car accident claims due to the complexities involved. The size and weight of commercial trucks contribute to more severe damages and injuries, requiring higher degrees of investigation and negotiation. Trucking companies also typically have more resources to defend themselves and complex insurance policies that cover potential liabilities.

Additionally, federal and state regulations specifically governing the trucking industry add layers of complexity to these claims. For instance, these regulations address hours of service, truck maintenance, and driver training. An attorney experienced in truck accidents is crucial in navigating these complexities. They can provide insights into industry-specific regulations and use them to strengthen your claim and hold the responsible parties accountable, ensuring you receive appropriate compensation.

Skilled Negotiators & Proven Trial Attorneys

Almost all tractor-trailer and commercial vehicle accidents involving serious injuries are not settled until a lawsuit is filed and substantial discovery has been performed.

The trucking company or its insurance company will vigorously defend their case. It is important that your attorney has a great deal of experience handling trucking accidents. Over and above, the partners at Alex Law have earned a reputation as excellent negotiators and time-tested trial attorneys.

Our seasoned attorneys combine a strategic approach with comprehensive knowledge of legal precedents to anticipate and counteract defense tactics effectively. This blend of negotiation skill and courtroom acumen ensures that each client’s interests are robustly defended, increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome. Clients can trust that their claim is in capable hands, as we pursue every possible avenue to secure rightful compensation and uphold justice on their behalf.

To speak to a senior attorney regarding your tractor-trailer accident, please call us for a free consultation at (602) 483-6114. With us, you can sleep well at night knowing you and your family are in caring and capable hands.

Additional Resources for Trucking Accident Victims

Looking for additional resources regarding your truck accident claim? Our personal injury blog posts include information and advice from our professional truck accident lawyers:

• How the "Black Box" in a Truck is Used in an Accident Case
• 5 Common Factors in Truck Crashes
• A Trucking Accident Can Change Your Life!