Phoenix Truck Accident Attorney 

Fighting For Truck Accident Victims in Arizona

When large trucks like 18-wheelers are involved in an accident, the consequences can be devastating. Occupants of passenger vehicles often suffer serious or catastrophic injuries, and severe cases can result in death. The costs of medical treatment are high. Adding to the financial burdens is a loss of income, as victims may need to miss work during recovery. If the truck accident was caused by another person’s or entity's negligence or recklessness, victims could take action to seek compensation for damages. Unfortunately, these matters are complicated because several parties may be liable for the crash, which means a claim or lawsuit may be filed against any of them.

If you or a loved one was injured in a truck accident in Phoenix, you could have a personal injury lawyer assist with your case and help you hold the responsible parties accountable. At IBF Law Group, we recognize individuals' challenges when pursuing compensation. We also understand the importance of obtaining the financial recovery needed to cover losses and expenses. That is why we listen to our clients’ accounts of the incident and develop personalized solutions to seek justice on their behalf. Our personalized approach ensures that each case is thoroughly investigated, identifying all liable parties and maximizing the potential for recovering due compensation.

Injured in a collision involving a commercial vehicle? Call IBF Law Group today at (602) 833-1110 or contact us online to find out if you're eligible for compensation!

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Thousands of significant truck accidents occur each year. While some collisions are unavoidable, others result from negligence or recklessness, often leading to costly damages and significant injuries.

Common causes of truck accidents include the following:

• Driver fatigue: Truck drivers can be on the road for long stretches. Regulations exist concerning rest periods. Still, not all drivers adhere to them, perhaps due to unrealistic deadlines or feeling they don’t need a break. Unfortunately, operating a truck when exhausted can lead to a lack of safe vehicle control. 
• Distracted driving: A truck driver who takes their hands off the steering wheel, eyes off the road, or mind off driving could hit other vehicles or structures, causing a serious accident.
• Improper cargo load: Large trucks must be loaded according to regulations. If a truck carries too much weight or the cargo is placed haphazardly, the driver could have difficulty steering or stopping. If the load is not correctly secured, it could shift or fall off, hitting vehicles or creating obstacles drivers must dodge.
• Mechanical failure: Problems with the design or construction of vehicle parts can compromise safe operation.
• Inadequate training: If a trucking company puts a driver on the road before they are ready, the driver might be ill-equipped to respond to hazardous situations.

Several parties could be liable when a collision occurs, depending on its causes.

These parties include:

• The truck driver, 
• The cargo loader, 
• The vehicle or parts manufacturer,
• The mechanic or
• The trucking company.

Our Phoenix truck accident lawyers thoroughly investigate to determine what happened, how it happened, and who caused the collision. From there, we plan to pursue just compensation for our clients. Our team evaluates all evidence, including drivers' logs, maintenance records, and crash scene details, to build a robust case that addresses all angles of liability.

Common Injuries in Truck Accidents

Some of the most common injuries sustained in truck accidents include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The impact of a collision with a truck can cause serious head injuries, leading to traumatic brain injuries. TBIs could result in cognitive impairments, memory loss, and long-term neurological issues.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: The force of a truck wreck can damage the spinal cord, resulting in partial or complete paralysis. Spinal cord injuries often demand extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation and can result in permanent disability.
• Broken Bones & Fractures: The immense force involved in truck accidents can cause multiple fractures, particularly in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. These injuries may require surgeries and physical therapy and can leave the victim with long-term pain or mobility issues.
• Internal Injuries: The impact of a truck accident can cause internal bleeding and damage to organs such as the liver, spleen, and lungs. Internal injuries are often life-threatening and demand prompt medical attention.
• Whiplash & Neck Injuries: Even in less severe truck accidents, victims can suffer from whiplash or other neck injuries. These injuries could lead to chronic discomfort and limited mobility and require long-term medical treatment.
• Burns & Lacerations: Truck accidents can sometimes result in fires or explosions, leading to severe burns. Additionally, shattered glass and debris can cause deep cuts and lacerations, which may result in scarring or disfigurement.
• Emotional & Psychological Injuries: The trauma of a truck accident can also result in emotional and psychological injuries, like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. These conditions may require therapy and can significantly impact a victim's quality of life.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Truck Accident Claim?

Potential damages may include:

Economic Damages

Common economic damages in a truck accident claim include:

• Medical Expenses: This includes emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical care related to the injuries sustained in the accident.
• Lost Wages: If victims cannot work because of their injuries, they may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This also includes loss of earning capability if the injuries stop the victim from returning to their previous job or working.
• Property Damage: Victims can recover the cost of repairing or replacing their vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages can include:

• Pain & Suffering: Victims could be eligible for compensation for the physical misery and discomfort caused by their injuries.
• Emotional Distress: Compensation for the psychological effect of the accident, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD, is also recoverable.
• Loss of Consortium: If the victim's injuries have affected their relationship with their spouse or family, they may be compensated for the loss of companionship, support, and affection.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If the injuries prevent the victim from engaging in activities they once enjoyed, they may be entitled to damages for the diminished quality of life.
• Punitive Damages: In cases where the truck driver or trucking company operated with gross negligence or reckless disregard for safety, punitive damages may be granted. These damages are intended to penalize the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.

Proving Fault in a Truck Accident

Victims can pursue claims against the liable party or parties. When they do, they have the burden of proving that the defendant was at fault and owes them compensation. Generally, accident claims are based on the theory of negligence.

Under the principle, the plaintiff must prove the following:

• The responsible party owed them a duty of care, meaning that the individual or entity was expected to act as a reasonable person would to prevent harm to others. 
• The responsible party breached their duty of care, meaning that the individual’s or entity’s acts or omissions fell below the expected standards.
• The breach of duty caused the accident. In other words, the accident would not have happened if the other party had not engaged in certain conduct.
• The accident resulted in damages, meaning the victim suffered compensable losses and expenses. 

Meeting the burden of proof requires presenting various pieces of evidence. 

Evidence can include: 

• Photos,
• Videos, 
• Witness testimony, 
• Police reports, and 
• Other relevant information.

Our team collects and preserves objects and other data in Phoenix truck accident cases to help support our client’s claims and seek maximum financial recovery. Our attorneys meticulously reconstruct the accident scene by collaborating with accident reconstruction experts to present a compelling case in court.

Statute of Limitations to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Arizona 

In Arizona, the statute of limitations for filing a truck accident lawsuit is generally two years from the accident date. However, it's essential to be aware that specific circumstances of the case or legal nuances could impact this timeframe. Seeking legal counsel promptly after a truck accident is crucial to ensure you understand and adhere to your situation's applicable statutes of limitations. For example, if the government is involved, a shorter claim notice period may apply, requiring swift legal action.

Why You Need an Experienced Phoenix Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accidents can result in serious injuries and property damage. If you have been involved in a truck accident, it is essential to seek legal representation to protect your rights and maximize your compensation. Here are some reasons why hiring a Phoenix truck accident lawyer is crucial:

• Knowledge of trucking laws: Trucking companies and drivers are subject to strict federal and state regulations. A truck accident attorney will have the knowledge and experience to navigate these complex laws and regulations.
• Investigation & evidence gathering: Truck accident cases often involve multiple parties, including the driver, trucking company, and possibly even the truck manufacturer or its parts. An attorney can thoroughly investigate the accident and gather evidence to determine liability.
• Negotiation & Settlement: Insurance companies will often try to offer a low settlement to victims of truck accidents. An attorney will have the negotiation skills to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
• Courtroom experience: If a settlement cannot be reached, an attorney will have the courtroom experience to represent you in a trial and fight for your rights.

At IBF Law Group, our Phoenix truck accident attorneys provide precise strategic guidance tailored to each client's situation. We handle complex truck accident cases by coordinating with professional investigators and regulatory experts to ensure all case elements are exhaustively reviewed before pursuing any legal action.

Navigating the Phoenix Legal System

A significant aspect of handling truck accident cases in Phoenix involves understanding local court procedures and legal nuances. The Maricopa County Superior Court handles civil cases and has specific protocols to adhere to in personal injury claims. These include filing procedures, deadlines, and documentation standards. Familiarity with these local rules ensures that claims are filed promptly and correctly, avoiding delays and maximizing the case's potential for success.

At IBF Law Group, our attorneys are well-acquainted with these processes and work diligently to comply with every legal requirement. We aim to streamline each case's progress through the legal system, keeping clients informed and involved at every stage. This local knowledge positions us as a distinctive asset for clients seeking justice in Phoenix truck accidents, as we know how to navigate the city's legal landscape effectively. 

Contact Our Truck Accident Lawyers in Phoenix Today

At IBF Law Group, we fight to protect our clients’ rights. We leverage our varied legal backgrounds to build innovative and personalized strategies for each case we handle. Our commitment to understanding the nuances of each client's experience sets us apart, allowing us to deliver legal solutions as unique as those we represent. 

Don't wait—get the legal support you deserve. Contact a Phoenix truck accident attorney now for a free consultation!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do Immediately After a Truck Accident in Phoenix?

After an accident, your safety and health should be your top priority. Immediately call 911 to report the accident and gather contact information from involved parties and witnesses. Document the scene with photos if it's safe, noting vehicle positions, road conditions, and traffic signals. Seek medical attention immediately, even for minor injuries, as some symptoms may become apparent later. Contacting a Phoenix truck accident lawyer early is crucial, as they can help protect your rights and preserve evidence during the early stages of the investigation.

How Long Does a Truck Accident Case Take to Resolve in Phoenix?

The timeline for resolving a truck accident case varies depending on the complexity, liability issues, and willingness of parties to negotiate. Simple cases may resolve within a few months, while more complex cases with multiple defendants can take several years. During your consultation, an attorney at IBF Law Group will discuss potential timeframes, ensuring clients understand the stages involved, from negotiations to possibly going to trial. We prioritize clear communication, keeping clients informed of progress at every step.

Will My Truck Accident Case Go to Trial?

Not all truck accident cases go to trial. Many are settled through negotiations with insurance companies. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, going to trial may become necessary to pursue full compensation. At IBF Law Group, we prepare diligently for each possibility, ensuring clients are well-represented in negotiations or court. Our attorneys discuss the likelihood of trial in initial consultations so clients can make informed decisions about their case's direction.