Fayetteville truck accident lawyers
Fayetteville Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accidents often result in catastrophic injuries and significant damage due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. These cases are complex and require a skilled attorney to navigate the legal process. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident in Fayetteville, Arkansas, the experienced team at Wilmoth Law Firm, led by Sammi Wilmoth, Esq. is here to help. Sammi provides compassionate, dedicated, and personalized legal representation to individuals and families impacted by truck accidents.
Why Choose Wilmoth Law Firm?
When it comes to truck accident cases, you need more than just a lawyer—you need someone who will fight tirelessly for your rights. Sammi offers personal, hands-on service to clients in Fayetteville and across Arkansas. Unlike larger firms where you may rarely interact with the attorney handling your case, Sammi ensures every client receives one-on-one attention. With a wealth of experience in handling truck accident claims, Sammi is committed to securing the best possible outcome for each client.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Fayetteville
Truck accidents occur for a variety of reasons, and determining the cause is vital to building a strong case. Below are some of the common causes of truck accidents in Fayetteville:
- Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often work long hours, sometimes exceeding the legal driving limits, leading to driver fatigue. Fatigue impairs a driver’s reaction time and decision-making, which can result in devastating accidents.
- Distracted Driving: Truck drivers can become distracted by mobile phones, GPS devices, or other in-cab distractions. These distractions take the driver’s attention off the road and increase the likelihood of a crash.
- Driving Under the Influence: When truck drivers are under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or even prescription medication, their ability to drive safely is severely impaired. This can lead to fatal accidents on the road.
- Improper Maintenance: Trucks require regular maintenance to ensure safe operation. A failure to inspect and maintain the vehicle can result in mechanical issues, such as brake failure, which can cause accidents.
- Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo: Overloading a truck or improperly securing its cargo can make it difficult for the driver to maintain control of the vehicle. This can lead to dangerous situations, including jackknifing or rollovers.
- Weather Conditions: Trucks are more susceptible to skidding or losing control on wet, icy, or snowy roads. Poor weather conditions can increase the risk of accidents, especially when drivers are not adequately prepared.
Steps to Take After a Truck Accident in Fayetteville
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, it’s important to take specific steps to protect your health and your legal rights. Here are the key actions you should take after a truck accident:
- Ensure Safety: If possible, move to a safe location to avoid further accidents. Check for injuries and assist others if you’re able.
- Call the Police: Always call law enforcement to report the accident. A police report is critical for your claim and will provide important details about the accident.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, the damage to vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect names and contact information from witnesses.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel injured immediately, it’s essential to seek medical care. Injuries like whiplash, internal bleeding, and concussions can manifest hours or days after the accident.
How Wilmoth Law Firm Can Help You
Truck accidents are often more complicated than typical car accidents. There are usually multiple parties involved, including the truck driver, the trucking company, and possibly third parties such as maintenance contractors. Sammi has the experience to handle these complexities and will guide you through every step of the legal process. Here’s how we can help:
- Thorough Investigation: Sammi will investigate the circumstances of the accident, including reviewing the truck’s maintenance records, driver logs, and accident reports to determine fault.
- Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies for trucking companies are known for trying to minimize their payouts. Sammi will handle the negotiations with the insurance company.
- Expert Testimony: In some cases, expert witnesses—such as accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals—may be required. Sammi will work with trusted experts to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Court Representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, Sammi is fully prepared to take your case to court. She will fight for your rights in front of a judge and jury.
Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled To
After a truck accident, you may be entitled to a range of damages. Compensation can help you recover from the physical, emotional, and financial impacts of the accident. Here are the types of compensation you may be entitled to:
- Medical Expenses: This includes the cost of emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatments related to the accident.
- Lost Wages: If you are unable to work due to your injuries, you can claim compensation for lost income. This includes wages you’ve lost and potential future earnings if your injuries impact your ability to work long-term.
- Pain and Suffering: Pain and suffering compensation covers the physical and emotional toll of the accident, including anxiety, depression, and the overall impact on your quality of life.
- Property Damage: If your vehicle or other property was damaged in the accident, you can seek compensation for the repair or replacement costs.
- Punitive Damages: In cases where the truck driver or trucking company acted recklessly or with gross negligence, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar actions in the future.
How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Claim in Fayetteville?
In Arkansas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including truck accidents, is three years from the date of the accident. It’s important to contact an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you meet this deadline and to gather evidence while it is still fresh.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Truck Accident?
Truck accident cases often involve multiple parties. Depending on the circumstances, liability may fall on the truck driver, the trucking company, the vehicle manufacturer, or even maintenance contractors. A lawyer will thoroughly investigate the accident to determine who is at fault.
Contact a Skilled Fayetteville Truck Accident Lawyer at Wilmoth Law Firm Today
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Fayetteville, Arkansas, don’t hesitate to contact Wilmoth Law Firm. Call a Fayetteville truck accident lawyer today at 479-443-8080 or complete our online form for a free consultation. Located in Fayetteville, Arkansas, we serve clients in the surrounding areas.
Our Practice Areas
Personal Injury & Motor Accidents
Trucking Accidents
Workers’ Compensation
Civil
Litigation
Criminal Law
Family Law