Clive Truck Accident Injury Attorneys

Across the broad domain of highways, trucking accidents can lead to significant disruption, often resulting in serious injuries for those affected. In such trying times, trucking injury lawyers act as reliable advocates, offering guidance and assistance to survivors. These attorneys are experts in the intricate landscape of trucking laws and regulations.

Key Records to Gather for Your Claim

Police Report

The police report filed after your collision is vital evidence in an accident case. It describes the accident scene and contains the officer’s opinion on who or what was at fault. If the other driver was impaired, this information should be included in the report.

Medical Records

To recover compensation for your injury claim, you must establish your injuries and the actual expenses and estimated costs for any future treatment or therapy. Medical expenses often comprise a large portion of the compensation sought in an accident claim, making detailed medical records essential.

Truck Driver’s Driving Records

If the truck driver has a history of reckless driving, it can strengthen your case. Your lawyer can show that the trucking company was negligent in allowing the driver to continue operating despite a pattern of dangerous behavior.

Seeking Damages After an Iowa Semi Truck Accident

To seek damages, you must file a truck accident claim with the responsible insurance company. The insurance company will send an adjuster to evaluate your damages. Be aware that adjusters work for the insurance company and generally do not have your best interests in mind.

Common Insurance Tactics

- Underestimating Claim Value: Adjusters may undervalue your claim to save the insurance company money.
- Delaying Investigation: Some adjusters may delay their investigation to frustrate you into accepting a lower settlement.
- Downplaying Injuries: Insurance companies may use their own medical professionals to downplay your injuries or claim you had a pre-existing condition.

If the insurer refuses to pay what you deserve, you may need to pursue compensation through an Iowa truck accident lawsuit. A lawyer can represent your interests in court, allowing you to focus on recovery.

Determining Liability After an Iowa Truck Accident

Proving the defendant's negligence is crucial in an Iowa truck accident lawsuit. Multiple parties may be liable, including:

- The truck driver
- The trucking or shipping company
- The safety director of the company
- The vehicle inspector
- The truck manufacturer

An Iowa truck accident lawyer can investigate your case, determine liability, and represent your interests, ensuring you receive fair compensation.

Common Types of Fatal Truck Accidents

The five most common types of fatal truck accidents are:

1. Underride Accidents: Smaller vehicles drive underneath large trucks.
2. Override Accidents: Large trucks drive over smaller vehicles, motorcycles, or pedestrians.
3. Jackknife Accidents: Occur when a semi suddenly brakes, causing the trailer to fold into the truck.
4. Head-on Collisions.
5. Rollovers.

Importance of a Spoliation Letter

To prevent the destruction of crucial truck driver records, an attorney can send a spoliation letter to the trucking company. This letter advises the company to preserve all pertinent documentation, such as the driver’s record of duty status, qualification files, and vehicle maintenance records.

Preserving the Record of Duty Status

The driver’s record of duty status includes time on and off duty, use of the sleeper berth, and driving time. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations require trucking companies to maintain these records for at least six months. A spoliation letter can ensure these records are preserved for your claim.

Additional Important Documents

Other valuable records may include:

- Driver Qualification Files: Motor vehicle record, application for employment, annual review of driving record, certification of violations, and medical examiner’s certificate.
- Vehicle Maintenance Records: Details about the truck’s condition and maintenance history.

Contact an Iowa Truck Accident Lawyer Today

At Walker, Billingsley & Bair, our team of experienced lawyers can assist you in navigating the complexities of truck accident claims. We are dedicated to ensuring you receive compensation for the damages you’ve suffered. 

For more information on injury claims, download our free e-book, "The Legal Insider's Guide to Iowa Car Accidents: 7 Secrets to Not Wreck Your Case." To schedule an appointment with a truck accident lawyer, Contact our office at 641-792-3595 to speak with an attorney.