Generally, most people feel like they know what to do after a car accident. When people get into an accident with an 18 wheeler in Las Cruces, however, they may not know the right steps to take. 18 wheeler accidents are different than car wrecks on a number of levels. If you don’t understand how 18 wheeler accident cases work, you may end up getting much less than the compensation you deserve.
To maximize your chances of receiving proper compensation, it’s best to consult a Las Cruces 18-wheeler accident lawyer. An attorney’s expertise can guide you through the complexities of a wreck with a big rig. New Mexico attorney James Shaw has years of experience helping people deal with the aftermath of an 18 wheeler accident. If you want justice, you want him.
FAQs About 18 Wheeler AccidentsWhen people get into an 18 wheeler accident, they may not know much about how 18 wheeler accident cases work. Below are some of the most common Las Cruces 18-Wheeler Accident FAQ and their answers:
Q: How much is my case worth?A: Because 18 wheeler accident cases are complicated, there’s no exact answer. A number of variables play into the value of your case including things like the extent of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and your pain and suffering. Certain damages like property damage are easily calculable, whereas damages like pain and suffering can have a wide range of possibilities depending on your circumstances. To get an accurate estimate of the potential value of your case, you should consult a Las Cruces accident attorney.
Q: What makes truck accidents different?A: One of the main differences between truck accidents and normal car accidents is that 18 wheeler drivers have to abide by different federal and state regulations. These regulations are laid out by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the Department of Transportation regulations, and other traffic and civil laws that deal with cargo weight, speed limit, and a truck’s maximum height.
Q: Why are truck accidents so dangerous?A: An accident with an 18 wheeler is dangerous for those in a passenger vehicle because of the immense difference in size between the vehicles. 18 wheelers can weigh up to 16 times more than the average passenger vehicle, which makes a collision with them highly dangerous for those in a passenger vehicle.
Q: What can a lawyer do for me?A: Working with a lawyer means they’ll be able to conduct a thorough investigation of the accident on your behalf. Your lawyer will begin by requesting the driver’s Driver Qualification File (DQF), which is a file required by the FMCSA that holds extensive information about a truck driver’s records and history.
Next, they’ll ask for the electronic logging device (ELD) or the electronic on-board recorder, which they’ll use for evidence. Additionally, they’ll collect witness testimonies and go over the police report and your medical records. To complete their truck accident investigation, they’ll visit the scene of the accident and also get information on the truck itself.
Q: How much does legal representation cost?A: Most Las Cruces 18-wheeler accident lawyers work on a contingency fee, meaning they only charge a percentage of what you win in your case, usually ranging from somewhere between 25-40%. These fees may vary depending on the circumstances of your case, so it’s always best to ask.
Experienced Attorney James Shaw Is Here For YouWhen you’re injured because of another’s negligence, you deserve compensation. A Las Cruces accident attorney can fight for you to get you justice. New Mexico attorney James Shaw has been a managing partner of Carabin Shaw for over 30 years, which means he’s got the experience you need to beat trucking companies and make them pay. Call us today at 1-800-555-0101 for a free consultation.