An experienced Salt Lake City Truck Accident Lawyer

Acadia Law Group is an experienced Salt Lake City Truck Accident Lawyer in Utah. We have built a strong reputation for our relentless fight against insurance companies and unwavering commitment to securing justice for our clients.

Our expertise spans across handling truck accident claims involving commercial vehicle accidents, driver negligence, and instances where trucking companies fail to uphold safety standards.

Offering free consultations, we provide potential clients with an opportunity to discuss their case and understand their legal options. Whether your case involves a semi-truck accident, driver fatigue, or even a catastrophic injury, trust that the experienced truck accident attorneys at Acadia Law Group, are equipped to help you navigate through these challenging times.

Why Hire a Lawyer to Handle Your Truck Accident Case?

  1. Expertise in Trucking Laws and Regulations: Trucking companies and commercial truck drivers have to abide by specific laws and regulations. An experienced truck accident attorney understands these laws and how they apply to your truck accident case. They can use this knowledge to build a strong personal injury claim.
  2. Handling Insurance Companies: After a truck accident, dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming. A skilled truck accident lawyer is familiar with the tactics that insurance companies use to minimize or deny claims. They can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
  3. Investigating the Accident: An experienced Utah truck accident lawyer can thoroughly investigate the accident scene. They can gather evidence, such as medical records and witness statements, which can prove critical in establishing the negligent truck driver or trucking company’s liability.
  4. Court Representation: If negotiations do not result in a satisfactory settlement, your truck accident lawyer stands prepared to advocate for you in a court of law. They can present your case and fight for the financial compensation you deserve.
  5. Free Consultation: Many Utah truck accident attorneys offer a free consultation. This gives you an opportunity to discuss your case, understand your legal options, and decide whether you want to proceed with a personal injury lawsuit.

semitruck accident draper utah

Utah Trucking Laws: What You Need to Know!

In the state of Utah, both state and federal regulations govern the operations of trucks on the highways. These rules are designed to ensure the safety of all road users and to minimize the occurrence of truck accidents.

Driver Hours and Breaks

Utah adheres to federal regulations regarding the hours a truck driver can operate. According to these regulations, a driver is allowed to work for a maximum of 11 hours after taking 10 continuous hours off. The total working time, including driving and other work-related tasks, should not exceed 14 hours before the driver takes another 10 continuous hours off.

Speed Limit

Trucks on interstates and other limited-access roads in Utah must observe the state speed limit of 75 miles per hour. However, the speed limit may be lowered depending on the conditions or location.

Vehicle Size and Load Limitations

Utah imposes limitations on the width, height, length, and load extensions of trucks. For instance, a single-unit vehicle may not exceed 45 feet, including rear and front load extensions.

CDL Requirements

Drivers operating in interstate, intrastate, or foreign commerce and driving a vehicle that meets one or more specific criteria are required to obtain and hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Utah.

Transportation of Hazardous Materials

Utah has specific regulations for the transportation of hazardous materials. For example, smoking is prohibited in the vicinity of vehicles being refueled, and refueling should not occur while the motor is running or when within close proximity to any open fires.

Understanding these laws and regulations is crucial, especially if you’re involved in a truck accident. An experienced Utah truck accident attorney can help interpret these laws and use them to your advantage when seeking compensation for damages and injuries.

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Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident Claim in Utah?

In a truck accident claim in Utah, several parties could potentially be held liable depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident.

  1. The Truck Driver: If the driver’s negligence or recklessness is found to be the cause of the accident, they may be held responsible. This can include instances of speeding, distracted driving, driving under the influence, or violating other traffic laws.
  2. The Trucking Company: Trucking companies can be held liable if they have been negligent in their duties. This can include hiring inexperienced drivers, not properly maintaining their fleet of vehicles, or encouraging drivers to break regulations such as those governing rest periods.
  3. Cargo Loaders: If the cargo was improperly loaded or secured, leading to an unbalanced load or a load shift that caused the accident, the party responsible for loading the cargo could also be held liable.
  4. Truck Manufacturers or Maintenance Providers: If a defect in the truck itself or its parts led to the accident, the manufacturer could be held accountable. Similarly, if the company responsible for maintaining the truck failed in its duty, causing the accident, they could also be held liable.
  5. Insurance Companies: Depending on the specifics of the insurance policy and the accident, the insurer of the person who would be held legally liable for the personal injuries sustained could also be involved in the claim.

It’s important to note that Utah is a comparative fault state, meaning each party can potentially be held liable for part of the damages and only be able to seek compensation proportional to their degree of fault.

Hence, a thorough investigation into the incident is usually required to determine who could be held liable for any injuries or losses that occurred.

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Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Utah

Truck accidents in Utah are often severe, leading to significant physical injuries and long-term psychological issues. The most common causes of these accidents include:

  1. Speeding or Driving Too Fast for Conditions: Trucks require a longer stopping distance due to their massive weight, and excessive speeds often lead to accidents.
  2. Wide Turns: Due to their size, trucks make wider turns than smaller vehicles, which can lead to collisions if other road users are unprepared.
  3. Blind Spots: Trucks have larger blind spots than smaller vehicles, making it difficult for truck drivers to see other road users.
  4. Unsecured Loads: If a truck’s cargo is not properly secured, it can shift during transit, causing the driver to lose control.
  5. Drowsy or Fatigued Driving: Long hours on the road can lead to fatigue, reducing a driver’s reaction time and increasing the likelihood of an accident.
  6. Driver Negligence: This includes aggressive driving and drunk/drugged driving.
  7. Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Unmaintained or poorly maintained trucks are more likely to be involved in accidents.

Utah Truck Accident Statistics

Truck accidents are a significant concern in Utah, and the statistics reflect this. According to information provided by the Utah Public Highway Safety, there were 2,884 total crashes involving large and semi trucks in 2001, with 824 recorded as injury crashes and 36 fatalities.

As per the data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Utah has a lower rate of crash fatalities per 100,000 population than the US average. However, the state still experienced 43 fatal accidents involving large trucks.

In an analysis of the years 2019, 2020, and 2021, Utah experienced 91 fatal crashes and 232 severe injury crashes, totaling 323 crashes over these three years .

In 2018, there were 62,074 crashes in the state of Utah , and large trucks accounted for 7% of total vehicle miles traveled in the United States.

Despite having a lower fatality rate compared to the national average, the number of truck accidents in Utah is concerning, emphasizing the importance of road safety measures and regulations.

red and blue semitrucks on the road

Things You Need to Do Right After Your Utah Truck Accident

Experiencing a truck accident in Utah can be disorienting and traumatic, especially if you’ve sustained serious injuries. However, there are several crucial steps you need to take right after the incident to protect your rights and optimize your chances of securing financial compensation for your losses.

Immediately After the Accident

  1. Safety First: If it’s safe to do so, move to a safe location away from traffic and further harm. However, try to stay as close to the accident scene as possible.
  2. Call 911: Report the accident and wait for the police to arrive. They will document the incident, which can be critical for your truck accident claim.
  3. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t think your injuries are severe, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical treatment. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately but could lead to life-threatening conditions later. Plus, medical records serve as crucial evidence in personal injury claims.
  4. Document the Scene: Take photos or videos of the accident scene, your injuries, damage to your vehicle, and any relevant road conditions. These can help your Utah truck accident lawyer build a strong case.

Contacting a Utah Truck Accident Lawyer

Once you’ve taken care of the immediate post-accident steps, it’s time to consult with an experienced truck accident lawyer.

Truck accidents can be more complex than car accidents, often involving multiple parties, including the truck driver, the trucking company, and possibly even the truck manufacturer. A skilled truck accident lawyer in Salt Lake City can help navigate these complexities and advocate for your rights.

Your Utah truck accident lawyer will review your case, gather evidence, negotiate with the insurance company, and if necessary, prepare your case for trial.

They will aim to secure fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to your truck accident injuries.

Building Your Case

Your lawyer will review your medical records, accident reports, and any evidence you collected at the scene. They may also work with accident reconstruction experts to determine how the truck accident occurred and who is at fault. If driver negligence contributed to the accident, your attorney would hold the negligent truck driver accountable.

Filing a Claim

Your Utah truck accident attorney will guide you through the process of filing your personal injury claim. This includes determining the value of your claim, negotiating with the trucking company’s insurance provider, and if necessary, taking your truck accident case to court.

utah semi truck accident lawyer

What Are the Most Common Injuries in a Salt Lake City Truck Accident?

Truck accidents in Utah, including semi and commercial truck accidents, are unfortunately common and can lead to severe injuries. The victims of these accidents often require extensive medical treatment, which can quickly lead to mounting medical bills.

If you’ve been involved in a serious truck accident, it’s important to understand the most common injuries that occur, how to make a truck accident claim, and how an experienced truck accident lawyer can help.

Most Common Injuries in Truck Accidents

Due to the size and weight of semi and commercial trucks, accidents involving these vehicles often result in catastrophic injuries. These may include:

  1. Traumatic Brain Injuries: These can occur when a victim’s head is violently shaken or struck during a truck accident. Symptoms can range from mild concussions to more severe conditions like permanent brain damage.
  2. Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis, affecting a person’s mobility and quality of life.
  3. Broken Bones: The force of a truck collision can easily break bones. Recovery can take months and may require surgery or physical therapy.
  4. Severe Burns: If a truck accident leads to a fire, victims can suffer severe burns, which require long-term medical treatment and can lead to significant scarring.
  5. Internal Injuries: These are often life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. They can affect vital organs like the heart, lungs, or liver.

White Semitruck near mountainous road

Compensation Available in Utah Trucking Accident Claims

How Much Is Your Truck Accident Case Worth?

Truck accidents are an unfortunate reality on Utah’s roads, often leading to severe injuries and significant financial losses for victims. If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, understanding the compensation available for your claim can help you navigate this challenging time.

Types of Compensation

Victims of truck accidents in Utah may be entitled to various types of compensation depending on the specifics of their case:

  1. Medical Expenses: This can cover costs for emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and any future medical needs related to the accident.
  2. Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be compensated for lost income. Additionally, if your ability to earn a living is permanently affected, you could recover compensation for future lost wages.
  3. Pain and Suffering: These non-economic damages compensate for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. While Utah has a cap on these damages, it only applies in certain circumstances.
  4. Property Damage: You can receive compensation to repair or replace your vehicle and any other property damaged in the accident.

How to Pursue Compensation in a serious truck accident

To pursue compensation, consider the following steps:

  1. Hire a Utah Truck Accident Lawyer: An experienced truck accident lawyer can guide you through the complex legal process, gather evidence to support your claim, and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
  2. Gather Evidence: This includes medical records, proof of lost wages, photos of your injuries and the accident scene, and any other documentation that supports your claim.
  3. File a Claim: Your attorney will help you file a personal injury claim against the negligent party, which could be the truck driver, the trucking company, or even the truck manufacturer.

It’s important to note that Utah is a no-fault state for auto accidents, meaning your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage pays for your medical expenses up to a certain limit regardless of who was at fault. However, if your damages exceed this limit, you can file a claim against the other party.

Front side of Semitruck with its headlights on

Role of Utah Truck Accident Lawyers

Utah truck accident lawyers, such as those at Acadia Law Group based in Salt Lake City, play a pivotal role in ensuring victims of truck accidents receive the justice they deserve. Serving areas including Provo, Orem, Salt Lake City, Ogden, and the rest of the valley, these legal professionals offer a range of critical services.

Their responsibilities include investigating the circumstances of the truck accident to establish liability. This could include identifying negligence on the part of the truck driver, trucking company, or even the truck manufacturer.

These lawyers also accurately assess the value of your claim, taking into account factors like medical expenses, lost income, and other losses you may have suffered due to the accident. They are skilled at gathering the necessary evidence and hiring the right experts to build a rock-solid case.

Beyond this, Utah truck accident lawyers are adept at negotiating with insurance companies and attorneys on behalf of their clients. If necessary, they can also represent you in court, demonstrating negligence and arguing your case effectively.

In essence, having an experienced Utah truck accident lawyer, like those at Acadia Law Group, on your side can significantly impact the resolution of your case, potentially leading to better compensation for your injuries.

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Utah Trucking Accidents Personal Injury FAQs

In Utah, the statute of limitations for truck accident victims to file a personal injury claim after commercial truck accident is four years from the date of the incident. This means you have four years from the date of the accident to file your claim. However, there are some exceptions and specific circumstances that may alter this timeframe, so it’s always advisable to seek legal advice as soon as possible following an accident.

It’s also worth noting that in Utah, an insurance company has thirty days to accept or deny your claim. Therefore, while you have four years to file a claim, it’s best not to delay in starting the process.

It’s typically not recommended to accept the initial settlement offer from an insurance company for a variety of reasons.

Firstly, there’s a chance that the first offer might not adequately cover your damages as insurance companies often propose a lower amount initially.

Secondly, accepting the first offer means you’re giving up any future claims for additional compensation related to the accident.

Thirdly, it’s important to fully understand what your damages are worth before accepting any settlement. Without this knowledge, you may settle for less than what you deserve.

Yes, you can sue the trucking company in many cases. If you can prove that the driver was negligent and this negligence led to your injuries, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the trucking company.

This is often based on a legal principle called “respondeat superior,” which holds employers responsible for their employees’ actions during the course of employment.

In addition, you may be able to sue the trucking company directly if you can demonstrate that it was legally responsible for your damages. For instance, if the company failed to maintain its vehicles properly or did not ensure that its drivers were properly trained.

If the accident was caused by a defect in the truck itself, you might be able to pursue a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer of the truck or its parts.

It’s also important to note that you can typically sue a trucking company regardless of whether it’s based in your home state or elsewhere. The company can usually be sued in the state where the crash occurred.

However, every case is unique, and there are exceptions to these general rules. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney who specializes in truck accidents to understand your options and the best way to proceed.

If a truck accident is caused by a defect in the truck, there are several entities that may be held accountable.

The manufacturer of the truck could be liable if the defect was due to a design or manufacturing flaw. This is part of product liability law, which puts the onus on manufacturers for any injuries their defective products cause.

Meanwhile, the trucking company itself may be held responsible if the defect resulted from inadequate maintenance or lack of regular inspections. Legally, trucking companies are obliged to keep their vehicles in safe and working condition.

Additionally, if a specific part from another manufacturer (such as brakes or tires) was defective and caused the accident, that company might also be held culpable.

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