If a cargo truck driver slams their vehicle into yours, you may have grounds for a lawsuit. At this point, a Laughlin cargo truck accident lawyer may be able to help you out. Your Laughlin truck accident lawyer may calculate your damages and make sure you request the compensation you deserve.
With more than six decades of combined legal experience, the team at H&P Law is available to help you with your injury claim. Our cargo truck accident attorney in Laughlin can take a look at your case and discuss your legal options with you. To get started, reach out to us.
Cargo Truck Definition
A cargo truck refers to a vehicle used to transport freight. It is sometimes called a “freight truck.” It features a body-on-frame design with a separate cabin.
Cargo trucks may be used for local and international shipping. If one of these trucks is not loaded properly, it can be dangerous. If a trucker does not have sufficient training, they may be prone to freight truck accidents.
If you got hurt in an accident, it may be best to partner with an attorney who has achieved outstanding case results. The Laughlin personal injury lawyers at H&P Law can review your cargo truck accident case and help you decide if now is the right time to seek damages. For more information, get in touch with us.
When to File a Claim
Based on Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) §11.190, you may have up to two years from the date you suffer an injury caused by someone else to pursue damages. For example, a cargo truck driver may take their eyes off the road and crash their vehicle into yours, leaving you with an injury. In this situation, you may be eligible to submit a claim within two years of your accident.
A Laughlin cargo truck accident attorney can file your claim in accordance with Nevada’s statute of limitations. They can evaluate your losses. Your lawyer may encourage you to ask for economic and non-economic damages.
Examples of economic damages awarded in injury cases include medical bills and lost wages. In terms of non-economic damages, you may receive money based on pain, suffering, and other subjective losses you incur. Your lawyer can help you build an argument designed to show a judge or jury that you deserve 100% of the compensation that you are requesting.
Cargo Truck Accident Cost
According to research relating to truck accident frequency and claims severity, the average cost of an accident involving a large truck totals about $120,000. Every accident is different, and a cargo truck accident lawyer in Laughlin can help you figure out how much your case is worth. Once they do, they can help you submit your claim and build an argument that compels a judge or jury to rule in your favor.
The burden of proof in your case falls on you and your lawyer. You may ask for damages, but the court does not have to award you anything. To put yourself in the best position to get compensation, it is paramount to make it clear to a judge or jury that you are in no way liable for your accident.
You can prove an at-fault party was negligent by showing they had a legal obligation to avoid careless and reckless acts toward you. Along with this, you must verify that this party violated their obligation, which led to your accident. Also, you must confirm that you are dealing with economic or non-economic losses due to the party’s actions.
Who Is Responsible for a Cargo Truck Accident
In many cases, a truck driver or their employer may be liable for an accident. There are scenarios where other parties may be at fault. Other parties that may be named in truck accident cases include:
- Cargo loader
- Government entity
- Truck manufacturer
A cargo truck accident attorney in Laughlin can examine the facts of your case. They can also explain what lawyer-client privilege is and answer any legal questions you have. After your attorney evaluates your case, they can help you craft an argument that may lead to a fair settlement.
How Comparative Negligence Applies to a Cargo Truck Accident Case
Per NRS §41.141, you and another party may share responsibility for your accident. If this happens, you may get only a fraction of the damages you initially requested. Or, if you are primarily to blame, a judge or jury may choose not to award you any damages.
As an example, a judge or jury may say you are 10% liable for your accident. This means the defendant in your case is 90% to blame. Therefore, they may be ordered to pay 90% of the damages you originally sought.
Now, consider what may happen if a judge or jury finds you to be 51% at fault. You are more responsible for your accident than the defendant. Thus, the defendant may not have to pay damages.
Cargo Truck Accident Settlement
You may be wondering if you should talk to a representative after a truck accident. It may seem like a good idea to do so at first, since the rep may be able to help you deal with the aftermath of your accident. Yet, discussing the accident with the rep may hurt your chances of getting a reasonable settlement.
If you receive a settlement offer from an at-fault party only days after your accident, it may be best to consider your options carefully. By approving the first proposal you get, you may leave money on the table. Alternatively, you can discuss the offer with an attorney, and they may help you make an informed decision about it.
Your Laughlin cargo truck accident lawyer can go over all aspects of a settlement proposal with you. If you determine an offer is far less than what you may get if you bring your case to trial, you can decline it. Your lawyer can notify the liable party about your decision, and you and your Laughlin cargo truck accident attorney can keep working together to strengthen your case.
Partner with a Lawyer
If you want legal help with a cargo truck accident claim, the team at H&P Law may be able to assist you. We provide legal services and support to truck accident victims. To schedule a free case consultation, contact us today.
