When a traffic accident involves a large truck, the outcome can be devastating. Big rigs are considerably larger and heavier than the average passenger car. This makes the risk of serious and fatal injuries significant for those in the smaller vehicle. You may suffer life-changing injuries and damage due to a trucking accident in Summerlin.
At Edward Bernstein & Associates, we proudly represent truck accident victims and their families in Summerlin and throughout the Las Vegas Valley. You can rely on our personal injury lawyers to inform you of your rights and equip you with what you need to seek justice. Contact us today to begin your case with a free consultation.
Why Choose Ed Bernstein?
- We have been representing truck accident victims in Nevada since 1977. Our team knows how to navigate the nuances of truck accident cases to achieve the best possible results for our clients.
- Our Summerlin personal injury lawyers have a reputation for providing client-focused legal representation. We put people first and prioritize communication so that our clients are never left in the dark.
- We are capable of going up against any trucking company or adversary in Summerlin, big or small. We can bring complex cases to court, when necessary.
- You won’t pay us anything unless we win your truck accident claim. Our Summerlin personal injury lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay $0 upfront.
Understanding Truck Accidents in Summerlin
Long-haul truckers follow several routes that take them through Summerlin, Nevada, including Interstate 15, the Summerlin Parkway (SR-613) and the Las Vegas Beltway (CC-215). Unfortunately, this increases the risk of truck accidents for residents of Summerlin.
Drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians may get involved in accidents with 18-wheelers, semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, delivery trucks, box trucks, garbage and utility trucks, and other types of commercial vehicles (e.g., buses and emergency vehicles).
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in the Las Vegas Valley
Most trucking accidents are entirely preventable. They are often traced back to negligence, or the failure to exercise ordinary care. Truck drivers can make many errors that result in collisions, such as:
- Speeding
- Improper braking
- Tailgating
- Violating traffic laws
- Failing to yield
- Not checking blind spots
- Making unsafe lane changes
- Driving while distracted
- Drowsy driving
- Drunk driving
Trucking companies can also be responsible for large truck accidents. They may not properly maintain their trucks or hire qualified drivers, for example, which can create dangerous conditions that cause collisions.
Unique Dangers of Truck Accidents
A motor vehicle accident involving a big rig is not the same as a typical car accident case in Summerlin. Truck accident cases have many unique aspects and legal elements, including:
- Size and weight disparities
- Greater collision force and more severe injuries
- Stopping distance considerations
- Large blind spots and visibility issues
- Jackknifes and rollovers
- Underride and override accidents
- Dangerous cargo concerns
The distinctive characteristics of a large truck accident enhance the likelihood of serious to catastrophic injuries – most often to the passengers of the smaller car, not the semi.
Nevada Laws Governing Commercial Trucks
Commercial trucks are classified as “common carriers” in the eyes of the law. As such, they are subject to special safety rules and regulations. Trucking companies and all who work for them are subject to both state and federal trucking laws. For example, in Nevada, truck drivers must be at least 21 years old and possess a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL).
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has many guidelines for the trucking industry, including hours-of-service requirements that restrict how many hours at a time a truck driver can operate a big rig. There are also various driver qualification standards, training requirements, and truck inspection and maintenance rules.
Determining Liability in Summerlin Truck Accidents
Nevada law holds the driver or party who caused a truck accident financially responsible, or liable, for a victim’s damages. This is how Nevada’s “at-fault” law works for all car accident cases. However, when an accident involves a commercial truck, the victim will have more than just the driver of the truck to contend with.
Potentially responsible parties include:
- The truck driver
- An owner/operator
- A trucking company
- Truck maintenance provider
- Cargo loading company
- Truck or part manufacturer
The defendant or accused party identified in your Summerlin truck accident case may try to avoid liability through one or more defense tactics. Major corporations will attempt to protect themselves by rejecting claims and refuting liability.
A popular defense is attempting to blame the victim for the crash. Under Nevada’s modified comparative negligence rule, you could still qualify for partial financial recovery even if you are allocated a degree of fault for the truck accident.
Compensation Available for Truck Accident Victims
Moving forward from a large truck accident can be easier with financial compensation gained from a successful insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. Depending on your case, you may be eligible for the following types of damages:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering damages
- Property damage recovery
- Wrongful death compensation
Before accepting what is likely a low first settlement offer from an insurance provider, bring your case to Edward Bernstein & Associates for a case evaluation you can trust.
Why You Need a Specialized Summerlin Truck Accident Lawyer
Hiring a lawyer to handle your truck accident case in Summerlin can ensure that you are treated fairly. Your lawyer will use experience with complex commercial vehicle litigation to argue for maximum financial compensation on your behalf. A lawyer has the resources necessary for thorough accident investigation, as well as access to expert witnesses.
For the greatest odds of success, look for a lawyer with years of experience specifically handling truck accident cases in Nevada. Search for a track record of success in similar cases. Ask the attorney for past case results and client testimonials. Finally, look for local court familiarity in Summerlin and an attorney who you feel is committed to your success.
Contact Edward Bernstein & Associates Today for a Free Truck Accident Case Evaluation
If you’re ready to seek the case results you need to move on from a disastrous trucking accident in Summerlin, Nevada, contact Edward Bernstein & Associates. We will discuss your situation in detail during a free consultation. Then, if we decide to take your case, we will do everything we can to maximize your case’s outcome.
We are compassionate, determined and highly experienced truck accident lawyers who will always put you first. Contact us online or call (702) 508-7334 now to schedule your free initial case review.