The initial shock and confusion of a truck accident can quickly give way to wondering who is at fault. Understanding fault in truck accidents is important for insurance claims and for ensuring justice is served. However, the path to determining responsibility is often tangled in complexities. At the Law Offices of Andrew Zeytuntsyan, we offer professional legal services for victims who have been injured in semi-truck accidents. Keep reading to uncover important details about how to establish fault in these kinds of auto accidents so you can move forward with informed confidence.
The concept of fault in truck accidents goes beyond simply pointing a finger. It involves the process of piecing together evidence, understanding legal standards, and applying them to the specifics of the case. Unlike passenger vehicle collisions, truck accidents involve a variety of factors, such as commercial trucking regulations, the professional duty of truck drivers, and the mechanical complexities of large vehicles. Determining fault starts with a deep dive into these unique elements and sets the stage for a thorough investigation by a personal injury lawyer.
Negligence occurs when a party fails to act with the level of care that a reasonably prudent person would in the same situation. However, the plot thickens with the introduction of the modified comparative negligence standard. This legal doctrine allows for fault to be distributed amongst all parties involved based on their degree of negligence. Under this rule, a party can recover damages only if their percentage of fault is below a certain threshold, which varies by state. This makes the detailed examination of all parties' actions leading up to the accident profoundly important to the outcome of the case.
The investigation process is exhaustive, encompassing everything from accident scene reconstruction and analysis of the truck's electronic logging device to reviewing maintenance records and driver logs. Specialized knowledge is essential, as is a detail-oriented approach to gathering and analyzing evidence is required. This phase is critical in building a compelling case and highlighting the breach of duty that led to the accident.
When determining fault, expert testimonies and technological evidence often play a starring role. Accident reconstruction experts, mechanical engineers, and medical professionals contribute insights that can drastically influence the outcome of a case. Technological advancements can provide a personal injury attorney with tools like GPS data and ELD information, which offer a digital footprint of the events leading up to the accident. This evidence can be pivotal in painting a clear picture of negligence and fault.
Finding your footing after a truck accident can feel like an uphill battle, with the question of fault adding layers of complexity to an already stressful situation. However, the Law Offices of Andrew Zeytuntsyan are here to help. Our professionals specialize in handling truck accident cases and can ensure that every piece of evidence is scrutinized and every legal avenue explored. Contact our office for answers to your questions or to schedule a convenient consultation with a local personal injury attorney.
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