Williamsburg Truck Accident Lawyer

Semi-trucks or tractor-trailers, also called 18-wheelers, are an essential part of our industrialized economy, traveling nationwide to ensure we have the goods and services we need. However, sharing the road with these massive vehicles is dangerous, especially if drivers are not exercising the appropriate duty of care behind the wheel. If you have been harmed due to a negligent 18-wheeler driver or trucking company, you are entitled to pursue compensatory damages for the physical, emotional, or financial losses you have sustained due to a negligent party’s wrongful actions.

At Waterman Law Centers, we have over 40 years of experience fighting for victims affected by vehicle negligence, earning the 2022 Metropolitan Tier 1 Ranking in U.S. News Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms” for Personal Injury, among other prestigious awards. We understand the lasting effect of 18-wheeler truck accident injuries and fight for the compensation you deserve. With millions recovered, we are well-versed in navigating your claim to bolster your chances of success.

How the 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Lawyer in Williamsburg, VA Can Help With Your Claim

Due to the size and significant weight of these types of vehicles, over 70% of truck accident fatalities affect passengers of other vehicles. While the truck drivers themselves are sometimes to blame, truck accident negligence often stems from trucking companies overworking drivers to maximize their profits or inadequately maintaining vehicles according to regulations.

The experienced Williamsburg 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer at Waterman Law Centers is well-versed in the complexities of truck accident claims and understands how to go up against large trucking companies. Mr. Waterman was voted “Lawyer of the Year” in 2022 by his peers in The Best Lawyers in America for Southeast Virginia. Retaining a skilled truck accident lawyer like him helps your claim in the following ways:

We have the resources to conduct an extensive investigation into your accident to determine the multiple parties liable for the severe injuries sustained in your 18-wheeler accident.
We handle negotiations and communications with multiple insurance companies involved and advocate fiercely on your behalf.
We navigate the complex trucking laws and regulations that affect your claim and anticipate and mitigate challenges and obstacles in the way of a successful outcome
We fight for the complete present and future compensation you deserve for the severity of your injuries.
We offer experienced legal guidance throughout the entirety of the claims process to help bolster your chances of success and explain the most favorable legal options.

At Waterman Law Centers, we have secured millions of dollars for vehicle accident victims caused by negligence and are determined to help you build a robust claim so you are able to recover the complete compensation you deserve.

Liability in a Williamsburg 18-Wheeler Truck Accident

Determining liability in a Williamsburg 18-wheeler truck accident is challenging without the experienced guidance of a truck accident lawyer. With the help of a Williamsburg 18-wheeler truck accident attorney from Waterman Law Centers, you have the resources to conduct a comprehensive investigation into your accident and prove the negligence of the following potential parties:

18-wheeler driver: Negligent behaviors, such as distracted driving, driving under the influence, speeding, or fatigued driving, all indicate driver liability.
The trucking company: Truck companies are liable for the actions of their employees. Their negligence also includes improper training, screening, or other violations of state and federal trucking laws.
Parts manufacturer or repair shop: Manufacturers or repair shops are liable for defective parts or inadequate repairs that contribute to the accident.
Truck loading companies: Unsafe loading practices cause accidents by affecting the braking system and tires or causing balance/stability and other safety issues when transporting goods.
The trailer owner: Trailers hauled are not necessarily owned by the trucker, so trailer owners are responsible for trailer conditions, maintenance, warnings, etc.
Government entity: Government authorities could be held responsible for damages if there is evidence they failed to maintain safe road conditions that contributed to the accident.

There are other parties potentially liable for compensatory damages in an accident. With the help of a skilled Williamsburg 18-wheeler truck accident attorney, you are able to prove the elements of negligence that caused the injuries you sustained due to their lack of care.

Types of Evidence You Need in a Truck Accident Claim

If you sustained injuries in a truck accident, gathering and preserving the proper evidence is essential in building a strong claim and pursuing the maximum compensation you deserve.

The following types of evidence are used to strengthen your claim and prove the negligence of the at-fault party:

Police reports: When a law enforcement officer responds to the accident scene, he or she typically documents the details, including his or her observations, statements from involved parties, and any citations issued. The police report provides an objective record of the accident and is vital to establishing fault.
Photographs: Take clear and comprehensive photos or videos of the accident, including vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, traffic signs, and other relevant details showing the scene and severity of the accident.
Surveillance footage: If the accident occurred near businesses or intersections with surveillance cameras, we obtain copies of available footage of the incident to support your claim.
Witness statements: Speak with any witnesses who are present at the scene and obtain their names and contact information. Eyewitnesses are vital to establishing liability and corroborating your version of events.
Driver logbook: Commercial truck drivers are required to maintain a logbook that records their hours of service and rest breaks. These records help determine if the driver violated regulations regarding maximum driving hours and fatigue management.
Maintenance and inspection records: We request maintenance and inspection records for the truck involved in the accident. This shows if the truck was not properly maintained or had known mechanical issues and establishes negligence on the part of the trucking company.
Employment records: We obtain the driver’s employment records, including their training, driving history and any previous accidents or violations.
Medical records and expert testimony: Collecting and preserving medical records and bills related to your injuries is critical for substantiating your claim for damages. Medical records indicate diagnosis, treatment plans, medical expenses, and any long-term effects resulting from the accident. Additionally, expert testimony from medical experts establishes the extent and impact of your injuries, which is vital for calculating compensation.
Black box data: Many commercial trucks are equipped with electronic control modules (ECMs) or event data recorders (EDRs), often referred to as black boxes. These devices collect data such as vehicle speed, braking and other performance metrics leading up to and during an accident.

To ensure evidence is collected and preserved effectively, consult an experienced truck accident lawyer who will guide you through the legal process.

Damages Awarded in a Successful Williamsburg 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Claim

Damages sustained in an 18-wheeler accident often are debilitating and long-lasting due to the huge weight, size, and impact of such a vehicle collision. Past, present and future life-altering injuries result in mounting medical bills and other losses.

With the help of our experienced Williamsburg 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer, you are able to recover the following compensatory damages:

Pain, suffering, and inconvenience
Scarring and disfigurement
Continuing disability and limitations
Medical bills
Lost wages from missed work
Mental anguish

With the help of a Williamsburg 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer, you are able to recover the compensation you deserve to attain the full recovery and justice you deserve.

Statute of Limitations for Truck Accident Claims in Virginia

In Virginia, the statute of limitations for truck accidents is generally two years from the date of the accident. Subject to limited exceptions, failing to initiate legal action within this time period has significant consequences: it will bar you from pursuing compensation and have any case dismissed.

Given the complexities of the statute of limitations and its exceptions, it is imperative to consult an experienced truck accident lawyer as soon as you are able. We evaluate the specifics of your case, help determine the applicable statute of limitations and protect your rights through every step of the legal process.

Speak With an Experienced 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Lawyer at Waterman Law Centers

18-wheeler truck accidents frequently result in lifetime injuries and suffering. Retain the award-winning lawyer at Waterman Law Centers, PLLC to handle every aspect of your case, from investigation to building your claim, so you are able to focus solely on your recovery. We fight for the maximum compensation you deserve and aggressively advocate on your behalf so you obtain the closure you need.

Attorney Avery T. “Sandy” Waterman, Jr., Esq. was named to The Best Lawyers in America for Personal Injury during 2007-2023, and was voted its “Lawyer of the Year” for Personal Injury by his peers in Southeast Virginia in 2022; and Waterman Law Centers has been listed as a Metropolitan Tier 1 Best Law Firm for Personal Injury in U.S. News & World Report for 2021-2023. For a free consultation, call us at (757) 881-9881 or fill out our contact form.