Truck Accident FAQs

Truck Accident Attorneys in Norfolk, VA

How are tractor-trailer accidents different from passenger vehicle accidents?

Tractor-trailer accidents are different from passenger vehicles due to the sheer size and weight of the trucks. These vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, and, as a result, the injuries in truck accidents are often much more severe than those involving passenger vehicles. An estimated 10% of people injured in large truck wrecks die. In addition, there are different state laws governing commercial vehicles, including tractor-trailers. This is why it is imperative to contact an experienced Norfolk tractor-trailer accident attorney like those at Kalfus & Nachman PC if you have been involved in a tractor-trailer accident.

What constitutes a commercial tractor-trailer?

A commercial tractor-trailer is one that weighs 10,000 pounds or more, can transport more than 10 passengers, or is used to transport hazardous materials. This includes those vehicles that are used to transport commercial goods, delivery trucks, buses, freight trucks, 18 wheelers or tanker trucks.

What causes tractor-trailer accidents?

Tractor-trailer accidents are caused by a number of different factors. Driver fatigue is the number one cause of tractor-trailer accidents. Truck drivers are on strict deadlines to deliver their goods and often drive for long periods of time on very little sleep.

If I was partly at fault for the accident, can I still sue for damages?

Negligence and liability laws vary from state to state. In Virginia and North Carolina, you will NOT be able to recover for your injuries if you were partly at fault for the damages. The experienced truck accident attorneys at Kalfus & Nachman will explain negligence issues with you such as contributory negligence and joint and several liability. At this point, all you really need to know is that if you were involved in a trucking accident, you should never admit fault and you should contact the personal injury trucking attorneys at Kalfus & Nachman as soon as possible.

Is it really necessary for me to contact a Norfolk truck accident attorney?

Yes. Even if you think you may have been at fault to some extent, it is very important to contact an attorney. Also, the laws governing tractor-trailers make it difficult to know if you are entitled to receive compensation. You need to know the attorney you call is knowledgeable in all the laws concerning tractor trailers and is experienced in handling big truck crashes. Only an experienced Norfolk tractor-trailer attorney like those at Kalfus & Nachman PC will be able to advise you on whether or not you have a valid legal claim.

Who has a case for compensation after a truck accident?

If you have been injured in a truck accident, or have suffered the loss of a loved one, you may be entitled to sue for compensation. Children may also sue through their parents or guardians. The truck driver, trucking company, owner, shipper, truck manufacturer, parts manufacturer, or truck inspector can potentially be sued if they are deemed responsible for the accident.

Is it possible to get expert witnesses to back up my claim?

The trucking company will carry out their own investigation, using their own experts, to defend the actions of their driver and the roadworthiness of their trucks. Unless there is absolutely no question as to who was at fault, and all parties agree on this, you must be ready to counter with an independent expert witness of your own. Your Norfolk personal injury attorney can advise you on this, and get the necessary tests and documentation to back up your case.

What else do I need to know about truck accidents?

Despite laws being tightened to prevent truck driver fatigue, many accidents occur because truckers take unnecessary risks in order to reach their destination within unreasonable target times. Or, faulty truck parts missed during a regular truck inspection may have caused your accident. The personal injury attorneys in Norfolk at Kalfus & Nachman PC can guide you through the complex process of making your claim for compensation after a truck accident.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a tractor-trailer accident in Virginia Beach, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk Portsmouth, or Roanoke, VA, please today.