Cuyahoga County Truck Accident Lawyer

Fighting Truck Accident Victims in Ohio

Trucks may be essential for transporting goods across the nation, but their sheer size and weight can pose a significant threat to drivers and pedestrians. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, you might unfortunately understand the kinds of effects these vehicles can have. This is where our highly experienced truck accident lawyer in Cuyahoga County comes in. With over thirty years of practice, you can count on our attorney and office to do everything in our power to see that you receive the compensation you deserve. To learn more about what we can offer you, contact us today for a free consultation.

Call Van Ness Law today to schedule a consultation with our truck accident attorney in Cuyahoga County.

Essential Steps After a Semi-Truck Accident 

Being involved in a truck wreck can be traumatic and leave victims feeling uncertain and overwhelmed. Despite these emotions, there are a few things every person who has been wrongfully injured in an accident ought to do. 

Follow these four steps:

1. Remain calm and call the police. Arguing with the other driver or expressing frustration is not likely to help the situation. As soon as possible, call the police and obtain a copy of the official police report. If someone on the scene is injured, seek the assistance of emergency personnel by calling 911.
2. Get medical attention. Seeking care for injuries and following a doctor’s orders are going to be key for a personal injury claim. It is advisable to see a doctor, even if nothing hurts or seems amiss following an accident. Something like whiplash or internal injuries might not be apparent immediately, but a doctor can identify and treat them.
3. Document everything. Take pictures and videos of the crash and the areas around it. Should others have witnessed the accident, try and get their information. Be sure to also document the injury or injuries, as well as the expenses associated with them.
4. Contact an attorney. Our team at Van Ness Law can provide vital counsel and support at every step of the claim process. The earlier we are on the case, the better. We can gather evidence, negotiate with insurance adjusters, and look at our client’s rights.

Common Injuries in Truck Accidents

Common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The force of a truck wreck can cause significant trauma to the head, leading to concussions or more severe brain injuries. These injuries may result in long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Harm to the spinal cord could result in partial or full paralysis, significantly affecting mobility and quality of life.
• Broken Bones: The effect of a truck accident can cause fractures and broken bones, including compound fractures that require surgical intervention and long recovery periods.
• Internal Injuries: The force of a truck collision can cause damage to internal organs, leading to serious conditions such as internal bleeding, organ rupture, and other potentially life-threatening injuries.
• Whiplash and Neck Injuries: The sudden jerk from a truck accident can cause whiplash, leading to neck pain, stiffness, and long-term discomfort. Severe cases may require physical therapy and medical treatment.
• Burns and Lacerations: In accidents involving truck fires or explosions, victims may suffer severe burns and lacerations, requiring extensive medical care, skin grafts, and rehabilitation.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Some common causes include the following:

• Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road could lead to driver fatigue, impairing reaction times and decision-making. Truck drivers are usually pressured to meet tight deadlines, contributing to exhaustion and increasing the risk of accidents.
• Distracted Driving: Distractions like texting, using a phone, or adjusting in-cab technology can shift a truck driver’s attention from the road, resulting in accidents.
• Speeding: Trucks require more time and distance to stop safely. Excessive speed reduces the driver's capacity to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions and increases the severity of accidents.
• Improper Maintenance: Trucks that are not regularly maintained can experience mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts, leading to accidents.
• Overloaded Trucks: Overloading a truck can impact its stability and handling, raising the risk of accidents. Excess weight can cause brake failures, tire blowouts, and difficulty in steering.
• Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol and drug use impairs judgment and coordination, increasing the likelihood of an accident. Truck drivers are kept to strict standards regarding substance use, but violations do occur.
• Poor Road Conditions: Defects in roadways, such as potholes, inadequate signage, or poor road design, can contribute to truck accidents. While these issues may involve local or state agencies, it is essential to consider all possible contributing factors.
• Inadequate Training: Truck drivers must undergo extensive training to handle large vehicles safely. Insufficient training or lack of experience can result in poor driving practices and accidents.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Truck Accident Claim?

At Van Ness Law, we have recovered over $10 million, and that amount only continues to grow. In truck accidents, we can advocate for our clients to receive compensation for a variety of expenses. 

These include:

• Past and future medical costs
• Compensation for physical pain and emotional duress
• Lost wages
• Vehicle damage or other property damage

The amount of compensation a person can recover will depend on the specifics of the case, including the severity of injuries and the circumstances of the accident. By consulting with an attorney, injured parties can find out how what kinds of compensation they are eligible to pursue.