How a Boston 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer Can Help You Win Your Case
Accidents involving 18-wheelers, also known as big rigs or semi-trucks, can lead to catastrophic consequences. Weighing up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, these massive trucks cause significant property damage and severe injuries when they collide with smaller vehicles.
If you’ve been in an 18-wheeler accident, you may face medical bills, lost income, and emotional trauma.
However, hiring a Boston truck accident lawyer can make a huge difference. They can help you navigate the complex legal process and seek the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Massachusetts’ Comparative Negligence Law
Comparative negligence allows each party in an accident to share responsibility based on their level of fault. In this system, the compensation you can receive is reduced according to your percentage of responsibility for the accident.
In Massachusetts, a modified comparative negligence law applies. You can still get compensation if you’re partially at fault, as long as your share of the blame is less than 51%.
However, the amount you receive will be reduced by your fault percentage.
For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 but are found 20% at fault, you’ll receive $80,000. This rule helps divide blame fairly while allowing injured parties to seek damages.
That’s why having a truck accident lawyer matters because they can help lower the blame put on you, which could increase your compensation.
If you’re looking for a Boston truck accident lawyer, DiBella Law Office is a top-rated firm ready to help. They offer a free consultation to discuss your case, review the details, and explain your options. With their experience, they know how to reduce your fault, gather strong evidence, and negotiate to get you the compensation you deserve.
Why You Need a Truck Accident Lawyer
18-wheeler accidents are not like regular car crashes. They’re often far more complex due to the sheer scale of damage, the number of parties involved, and the legal issues accompanying them.
Here’s why hiring a specialized attorney can make all the difference:
Understanding Federal and State Trucking Regulations
The trucking industry is subject to strict federal and state regulations, from driver hours to vehicle maintenance.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforces rules on rest breaks, driving limits, and vehicle inspections.
For example, truck drivers must follow Hours of Service (HOS) rules, which limit driving time to 11 hours within a 14-hour work period, followed by a mandatory 10-hour rest break.
In many cases, 18-wheeler accidents occur because trucking companies or drivers fail to comply with these regulations.
An experienced attorney will check if issues like driving hours, truck maintenance, or other rule breaks caused your accident. This can be key to showing who was at fault and helping you get the compensation you deserve.
Handling Multiple Parties and Insurers
In typical car accidents, there’s often only one other driver and their insurance company. However, 18-wheeler accidents are more complex. There could be multiple parties involved, including:
The truck driver: If driver error (e.g., distracted or drowsy driving) caused the accident.
The trucking company: If poor training, improper maintenance, or excessive scheduling contributed.
Cargo loaders: If the load was improperly secured or overloaded.
Vehicle manufacturers: If a defect in the truck or its parts contributed to the accident.
Each of these parties likely has an insurer, and trucking companies often work with insurers who are skilled at minimizing payouts.
A specialized attorney knows how to manage these negotiations, ensuring that each liable party is held accountable and you receive fair compensation.
Access to Resources for Thorough Investigation
Investigating an 18-wheeler accident requires more resources and expertise than a standard car accident.
For instance, there are usually records like electronic logging device (ELD) data that show how long the driver was on the road. Lawyers also examine truck maintenance records, driver qualification files, and any previous violations.
Expert witnesses, such as accident reconstruction specialists, may be brought in to analyze the accident and provide an objective view of what happened.
A qualified attorney will have the resources to gather and analyze this evidence, strengthening your case.
Valuing Your Claim Accurately
Medical bills, lost wages, and emotional stress can pile up fast after an 18-wheeler accident. That’s why it’s important to look at all your damages to get fair compensation.
Skilled attorneys use their past experience and expert help to figure out a fair compensation for you. They also know how insurers may try to pay less and can negotiate so you don’t settle for less than you deserve.
Managing Legal Processes and Deadlines
Massachusetts has strict timelines, known as the statute of limitations, for filing personal injury claims.
For truck accident cases, the statute of limitations is generally three years from the accident date. Missing this deadline can mean forfeiting your right to compensation.
Attorneys are meticulous about meeting these deadlines, gathering evidence, and building a solid case within the legal time frame.
Additionally, the process involves filing claims, submitting paperwork, and preparing for possible court appearances. This process can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with injuries and emotional trauma.
An attorney takes on these burdens, letting you focus on recovery.
What to Expect During the Legal Process
Once you’ve hired an attorney, they’ll walk you through the legal process, which generally includes these stages:
Case Evaluation: Your attorney will review your case details, including medical records, police reports, and evidence collected, to determine its strength.
Investigation and Evidence Collection: This phase involves gathering evidence such as witness statements, medical reports, and trucking company records.
Filing the Claim: Your attorney will submit a claim to the responsible parties’ insurance companies.
Negotiation: A large portion of cases are settled out of court. Your attorney will negotiate with insurers to reach a fair settlement amount.
Litigation (if necessary): If a settlement can’t be reached, your attorney will prepare to take the case to trial.
Boston 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer FAQs
What is the average settlement for an 18-wheeler accident?
The average settlement varies widely based on factors like injury severity, liability, and insurance limits. While some cases settle for tens of thousands, others reach six or seven figures if the injuries are severe or involve long-term disabilities.
How long does it take to settle an 18-wheeler accident claim?
The timeline depends on the case's complexity and whether it goes to trial. Simple cases may settle within months, while more complicated cases can take a year or longer.
Can I handle an 18-wheeler accident claim without an attorney?
Technically, yes, but it’s not advisable. 18-wheeler accident cases involve complex laws and multiple parties, and insurers often try to minimize payouts. An attorney can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
What should I look for in an 18-wheeler accident attorney?
Look for attorneys with specific experience in trucking accidents, a strong track record of settlements, and client testimonials. Local knowledge of Boston and Massachusetts laws can also be a significant advantage.
Conclusion
18-wheeler accidents can have life-altering impacts, making it essential to have experienced legal representation on your side. An accident attorney will guide you through the complex process of securing compensation, handling multiple liable parties, and negotiating with powerful insurers.
By hiring a specialized attorney, you can focus on your recovery while they work to protect your rights and seek the financial relief you deserve.
Christopher DiBella is the founding partner of DiBella Law Injury and Accident Lawyers. He knows the pain of injury from his own family’s experiences.
Chris earned his Bachelor’s degree from Boston University, graduating cum laude, and his J.D. from Suffolk University Law School. Among his many awards and recognitions are The National Trial Lawyers Top 25 Motor Vehicle Trial Lawyer, Top 100 Civil Plaintiff Lawyer, and Super Lawyers Rising Star.
With both skill and genuine empathy, Chris is dedicated to helping clients turn their struggles into successful outcomes.
More Lifestyle Articles
