Des Moines Truck Accident Attorney
The outcome is usually terrible when a big truck crashes into a much smaller car. Survivors often end up with serious injuries and substantial medical bills. Fortunately, the law is there to protect your rights fully.
For over 57 years, Roxanne Conlin & Associates, P.C., has been a fierce advocate for injury victims in Des Moines and throughout Iowa. As one of the first women to become a U.S. attorney and a pioneer in civil rights law, attorney Roxanne Conlin brings experience and dedication to every case. Our proven track record of securing substantial verdicts and settlements for clients, including those hurt in auto accidents, clearly indicates why your case is in the proper legal hands.
Common Causes Of Truck Accidents In Des Moines
Truck accidents can occur for plenty of reasons, but some of the most frequent causes in Des Moines include:
- Driver fatigue: Spending long hours driving can lead to drowsy driving and slowed reaction times.
- Reckless driving: Speeding, tailgating and unsafe lane changes put everyone at risk.
- Unsecured loads: Improperly secured cargo can shift or fall, causing the truck to lose control.
- Poor truck maintenance: Neglected brakes, tires or other critical components can fail at crucial moments.
- Overloading: Trucks carrying more weight than they are designed for are prone to rollovers and brake failures.
These factors can be amplified by the commercial trucks’ sheer size and weight, potentially creating catastrophic accidents.
Serious Injuries Are Common In Truck Accidents
The force of impact in a truck collision often leads to severe, life-changing injuries. It is, therefore, essential to involve an attorney who can investigate every matter related to your crash to identify all responsible parties and hold them accountable.
We have helped clients get compensation for many types of catastrophic injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis
- Multiple fractures and crushed limbs
- Internal organ damage
- Severe lacerations and burns
These injuries often need extensive medical care, rehabilitation and long-term support.
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents
Truck accidents often lead to devastating consequences due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. Below are detailed answers to common questions about truck accidents.
How are truck accidents different than auto accidents?
Truck accidents differ significantly from standard auto accidents in both severity and legal complexity. Trucks are much larger and heavier, leading to catastrophic injuries and higher property damage when accidents occur. Furthermore, truck accident claims involve unique regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules govern driver qualifications, truck maintenance and hours of service, which can play a key role in determining fault.
Where do truck accidents occur most frequently in Iowa?
Truck accidents often happen on major highways such as Interstate 80, which sees heavy commercial traffic or rural roads where narrow lanes and poor visibility create risks. Urban areas with busy intersections, like Des Moines or Cedar Rapids, also experience truck accidents due to congestion and frequent stops. Weather conditions like snow or rain, which are common in Iowa, further increase the likelihood of collisions in these areas.
Who is at fault in a trucking accident?
Determining fault in a trucking accident requires investigating multiple factors. The truck driver might be liable for actions like speeding or distracted driving. However, liability may also extend to the trucking company for overloading the truck, pushing drivers to violate hours-of-service regulations or failing to maintain the vehicle. Cargo loaders, mechanics or manufacturers could also share responsibility depending on the circumstances.
What damages can I recover after a truck accident in Iowa?
Victims of truck accidents may recover a range of damages. Economic damages include medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages and property repair or replacement expenses. Non-economic damages compensate for pain and suffering, emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life. In some cases, punitive damages may apply if the trucking company or driver acted recklessly, such as by driving under the influence.
If you have been injured in a truck accident, it is important to understand your rights and explore your legal options to secure the compensation you deserve.
Contact Us Today For A Free Consultation
Evidence may disappear quickly, and there are strict deadlines for filing a personal injury claim. Therefore, contact Roxanne Conlin & Associates, P.C.‘s Des Moines office for a free, no-obligation consultation by dialing 515-282-0477 or contact us online.