Truck accidents in Las Vegas can be devastating. When a passenger vehicle collides with a massive commercial truck, semi, or tractor-trailer, the results are often catastrophic. These accidents frequently lead to severe injuries, life-altering disabilities, or even fatalities. The sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles, combined with Las Vegas’s busy streets and highways, create a dangerous mix. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, you need experienced legal representation to navigate the complex aftermath and fight for the compensation you deserve.
As experienced Las Vegas truck accident attorneys, we handle cases involving:
- Collisions on major highways like I-15 and US-95
- Accidents in busy urban areas or the Las Vegas Strip
- Incidents related to the city’s constant flow of goods and materials
Truck accidents in Las Vegas are complex due to:
- Multiple liable parties: Including drivers, trucking companies, and manufacturers
- Strict industry regulations: Federal and Nevada state laws governing trucking operations
- Severe consequences: Often resulting in catastrophic injuries or wrongful death
Our Las Vegas truck accident lawyers are well-versed in Nevada’s trucking laws and the unique challenges of desert driving conditions. We investigate all aspects of the accident, from driver fatigue to improper loading, to build a strong case for our clients.
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Visit our truck accident attorneys near you in Las Vegas for a free consultation
If you’ve been involved in a trucking collision, or if you’ve suffered the loss of a loved one in a commercial vehicle crash, visit the offices of Wooldridge Law Injury Lawyers located at 400 S 7th St, Ste 490, Las Vegas, NV 89101. Unable to travel due to your injuries? Our truck accident attorneys will come to you! Call us now at (702) 867-8900, or reach out through our website, to arrange your no-cost consultation with a seasoned member of our legal team specializing in truck accident cases. We represent truck accident victims throughout Nevada.
What to do after a truck accident
If you’re involved in a truck accident in Las Vegas, taking the right steps immediately can significantly impact your safety, legal rights, and potential compensation. Here’s a detailed guide on what to do:
Prioritize safety and health
Call 911 immediately. If possible, move to the shoulder, especially on busy roads like I-15 or US-95. Turn on your hazard lights and set up reflective triangles if you have them. Check yourself for injuries – adrenaline can mask pain, so be thorough. If you smell diesel or see liquid spilling from the truck, stay in your car and wait for emergency services.
Notify local law enforcement in Nevada
Nevada law requires reporting accidents with injuries or over $750 in damage. Insist on a police report, even for minor accidents. While waiting, start a voice memo on your phone describing what happened – details fade quickly. Ask the responding officer for their name and badge number, and find out how to obtain the police report.
Document the scene thoroughly
Use your phone’s camera to take photos and videos. Capture skid marks, debris patterns, and any road signs or malfunctioning traffic lights. Look for businesses with security cameras that might have caught the accident. If you’re on the Strip, note which casino cameras might have a view of the scene.
Avoid discussing fault at the scene
Do not admit fault or apologize – Nevada’s modified comparative negligence rule means any admission could hurt your case. Avoid phrases like “I didn’t see you” or “I’m sorry.” If the truck driver tries to offer you cash on the spot, decline – it’s often less than you’re entitled to. Don’t post about the accident on social media; insurance companies often check these platforms.
Gather comprehensive information from truck driver
Collect details from the truck driver, including their CDL number and employer information. Note the truck’s DOT number and any visible company logos. Look for labels indicating hazardous materials. If there are witnesses, ask them to email you a statement right away – memories change quickly.
Seek immediate medical attention
Visit a hospital like UMC or Sunrise Hospital. Tell the doctor every symptom, no matter how minor. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, might not be immediately apparent. Keep a daily journal of your pain and limitations – this can be crucial evidence later.
Report the accident to your insurance company
Notify your insurer promptly, but stick to basic facts. Don’t give a recorded statement without legal advice. If the trucking company’s insurer contacts you, politely decline to speak with them and refer them to your attorney. Remember, Nevada’s statute of limitations for injury claims is generally two years, but evidence can disappear much quicker.
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Representing truck accident victims across nevada
At Wooldridge Law Injury Lawyers, we prioritize client relationships. Our personal injury lawyers provide personalized attention and clear communication throughout the personal injury case process. Our experienced truck accident attorneys also have access to expert witnesses, accident reconstruction specialists, and medical professionals to strengthen your case. Furthermore, we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if we win your case, making our services accessible with zero upfront costs.
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Common causes of truck accidents
Truck accidents are often more severe than typical vehicle collisions due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. Understanding the common causes is essential for prevention.
Driver fatigue
Long hours without adequate rest impair alertness and reaction time.
Distracted driving
Activities like texting or using in-cab technologies divert attention from the road.
Speeding
Exceeding speed limits reduces reaction time and increases braking distances.
Mechanical failures
Brake failures, tire blowouts, and engine problems can lead to loss of control.
Driver health issues
Medical conditions like sleep apnea can impair driving ability.
Regulatory non-compliance
Ignoring safety regulations, including hours of service (HOS) rules, increases accident risk.
Aggressive driving
Tailgating, frequent lane changes, and road rage can lead to collisions.
Common injuries in truck accidents
Truck accidents often result in a wide range of injuries, some of which can be severe or life-threatening due to the massive size and weight of commercial vehicles. Common injuries from commercial truck accidents include:
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Resulting from the forceful impact or sudden jolts, TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, affecting cognitive functions and physical abilities.
Spinal cord injuries
Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis, significantly impacting a victim’s mobility and quality of life.
Fractures
Broken bones, especially in the arms, legs, and ribs, are common due to the high-impact forces involved in truck collisions.
Whiplash and neck injuries
The rapid back-and-forth motion of the head during a collision can strain the neck muscles and ligaments, causing chronic pain and limited movement.
Chest and abdominal injuries
The force of impact can compress the chest and abdomen, resulting in bruised organs, broken ribs, or other serious complications.
Soft tissue injuries
Sprains, strains, and bruises are common as the body is thrown against hard surfaces or objects during the accident.
Burns
In cases where the accident involves fires or explosions, victims can sustain severe burns affecting large areas of the body.
Amputations
Extreme collisions can lead to the loss of limbs or other body parts, necessitating long-term medical care and rehabilitation.
Las Vegas truck accident attorneys
If you’ve been involved in any type of truck accident in Las Vegas, call our office for a free consultation. Our team of injury attorneys understands truck claims and how to resolve these cases with much higher settlements. We will get you the compensation you deserve, or it’s free.
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Common types of truck accidents we handle
Understanding the various types of truck accidents that occur on Las Vegas roads is crucial for all drivers. With the city’s unique blend of busy tourist traffic, long-haul trucking routes, and challenging desert conditions, being aware of these accident types can help you stay safe and know what to do if you’re involved in a collision.
According to the Nevada Department of Transportation, large trucks were involved in 21% of all fatal crashes on Nevada highways in recent years. This statistic underscores the importance of truck accident awareness in our state.
Rear-end collisions
Rear-end collisions are among the most frequent truck accidents on Las Vegas highways like I-15 and US-95. These accidents typically occur due to sudden stops caused by traffic congestion, especially during peak tourist seasons. Following too closely is a common issue in high-traffic areas, leading to these collisions. Driver fatigue, exacerbated by long hauls through Nevada’s desert terrain, also contributes to rear-end accidents. Additionally, distracted driving, including the use of mobile devices or in-cab equipment, plays a significant role. The consequences of rear-end collisions can be severe due to the truck’s size and weight, often resulting in significant damage to smaller vehicles and serious injuries to their occupants.
Sideswipe accidents
Sideswipe accidents occur when trucks drift into adjacent lanes, posing a significant danger on multi-lane highways around Las Vegas. These accidents are often caused by improper lane changes, frequently due to large blind spots that are characteristic of commercial trucks. Strong wind gusts, common in Nevada’s open landscapes, can also push trucks into neighboring lanes. Driver fatigue or distraction contribute to these accidents, as does the high volume of traffic in Las Vegas, including many smaller vehicles and tourist rental cars. Mechanical issues, such as tire blowouts, can also lead to sideswipe collisions, making them a serious concern on busy Las Vegas roads.
Jackknife accidents
Jackknife accidents occur when a truck’s trailer swings out to form a 90-degree angle with the cab, creating a hazardous situation on the road. These accidents are often caused by abrupt braking, which can be particularly dangerous on wet roads during Las Vegas’s infrequent but intense rain events. Equipment failure, especially in the brake or coupling systems, can also lead to jackknifing. Improper loading resulting in uneven weight distribution increases the risk, as does taking curves or exits too quickly. In Las Vegas, where freeways can become congested during rush hour or major events, jackknife accidents can block multiple lanes of traffic, causing extensive delays and increasing the risk of secondary collisions.
Rollover accidents
Rollover accidents are among the most dramatic and dangerous truck accidents seen on Nevada roads. These can result from sharp turns taken at high speeds, a particular risk on the winding mountain roads surrounding Las Vegas. High winds, which are common in the desert regions around the city, can also contribute to rollovers, especially for high-profile vehicles like semi-trucks. Uneven road surfaces or shoulder drop-offs, sometimes found on less-maintained roads outside the city center, increase the rollover risk. Improper loading or load shifts during transport can also lead to these accidents. The threat of rollover accidents underscores the importance of proper truck maintenance, driver training, and adherence to safety protocols on Las Vegas’s diverse roadways.
Underride accidents
Underride accidents are particularly dangerous collisions that occur when a smaller vehicle slides underneath a large truck. In Las Vegas, these can happen on highways like I-15 where high-speed differentials between trucks and cars are common. They often result from a truck’s sudden stop or a car driver’s inability to see a truck in low visibility conditions, such as during dust storms or at night. The consequences of underride accidents are often severe, as they can shear off the top of the smaller vehicle, causing catastrophic injuries to its occupants.
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Plan driving routeFrequently asked questions on commercial truck accidents
How long do I have to file a truck accident lawsuit in Nevada?
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Nevada, it’s crucial to understand the time constraints for taking legal action.
Nevada law typically allows two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This period, known as the statute of limitations, is a strict deadline. Missing it could result in losing your right to seek compensation through the courts.
While two years might seem like a long time, it’s in your best interest to start the legal process as soon as possible after the accident. Quick action helps preserve evidence, secure fresh witness statements, and build a stronger case overall.
Keep in mind that certain circumstances might affect this timeframe, so it’s always wise to consult with a Las Vegas truck accident attorney promptly. They can provide guidance specific to your situation and ensure you don’t miss any critical deadlines.
Who can be held liable for the commercial truck accident?
Determining liability in a commercial truck accident can be a complex process, as multiple parties may share responsibility.
The truck driver could be held accountable if their negligence, such as speeding or distracted driving, caused the accident. However, liability often extends beyond the driver. The trucking company might be responsible for the driver’s actions or for failing to maintain the vehicle properly.
If improper loading contributed to the accident, the cargo loading company could be liable. In cases where a defective part played a role, the truck or parts manufacturer might be held responsible. Even government entities could be liable if poor road conditions were a factor.
Nevada’s modified comparative negligence law adds another layer of complexity, as it allows for shared fault among multiple parties.
Given these intricacies, working with a knowledgeable Las Vegas truck accident lawyer is crucial. They can thoroughly investigate the accident, identify all potentially liable parties, and build a strong case to maximize your compensation.
How much are most truck accident settlements?
When it comes to truck accident settlements in Nevada, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Settlement amounts can vary dramatically, ranging from tens of thousands to millions of dollars, depending on the unique circumstances of each case.
Several factors come into play when determining settlement values. The severity of injuries and their long-term impact on the victim’s life is a primary consideration. Medical expenses, both current and anticipated future costs, play a significant role. Lost wages and reduced earning capacity due to injuries are also factored in, along with property damage. Non-economic damages like pain and suffering are considered as well.
The strength of the evidence and the determination of liability can significantly influence the settlement amount.
It’s worth noting that truck accident settlements often tend to be higher than typical car accident cases due to the potential for more severe injuries. However, every case is unique, and these general trends don’t guarantee specific outcomes.
To get a more accurate estimate of what your case might be worth, it’s best to consult with an experienced Las Vegas truck accident attorney.
