Unexpected accidents can be devastating, especially when they involve large commercial vehicles. If you’ve been injured in a UPS truck crash, a Fort Myers truck accident lawyer can help you pursue damages.
Recovering from a truck accident often means dealing with exorbitant medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional trauma. In the wake of such an incident, the process of filing a claim can be daunting.
The attorneys at Viles & Beckman have over 40 years of combined experience representing clients like you. If you’ve been injured in a UPS truck accident that wasn’t your fault, a Fort Myers UPS truck accident lawyer from our team can help you pursue compensation.
How Can a Truck Accident Lawyer Help You?
If you’ve been involved in an accident with a UPS truck, navigating the aftermath can feel overwhelming. An experienced truck accident lawyer can:
- Conduct an investigation: A lawyer can collect critical evidence such as driver logs, vehicle maintenance records, and black box data.
- Negotiate with insurers: A lawyer can handle communications with insurance companies to prevent you from being under-compensated.
- Build a strong case: By consulting with experts and organizing documentation, a lawyer can create a compelling argument for your claim.
- Represent you in court: If necessary, a lawyer can litigate your case to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Having a skilled Fort Myers personal injury lawyer by your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
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What Types of Compensation Can You Recover for a UPS Truck Accident?
Victims of UPS truck accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses: This includes current and future medical costs related to your injuries, such as surgeries, rehabilitation, and medications.
- Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover compensation for lost income.
- Pain and suffering: Non-economic damages like physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life are also recoverable.
- Property damage: You can claim compensation for repairs or replacement of your vehicle and other personal property.
- Punitive damages: In cases where the truck driver’s actions were especially reckless, you may be awarded punitive damages.
A UPS truck accident lawyer in Fort Myers can calculate your damages and help you pursue the maximum possible settlement.
How Much Are Most Truck Accident Settlements?
The value of a truck accident settlement can vary widely depending on factors such as the severity of your injuries, the extent of the property damage, and the degree of negligence involved. Some victims receive tens of thousands of dollars, while others receive millions.
A UPS truck accident attorney in Fort Myers can evaluate your case and provide a more precise estimate.
How Long Does It Take to Receive a Truck Accident Settlement?
The timeline for resolving a truck accident claim varies from case to case. Some cases settle in a few months, while others can take years. Factors that can influence the duration of your case include:
- The complexity of the case: Cases involving more severe accidents and cases with disputed liability take longer to resolve.
- Negotiations with insurance companies: Insurers may delay proceedings to pressure you into accepting a lower offer.
- Court proceedings: If a settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to trial, significantly extending your case’s timeline.
How Do You Prove Liability in a UPS Truck Accident Case?
Proving liability requires demonstrating that the truck driver or their employer acted negligently. Key steps include:
- Establishing duty of care: You must show that the truck driver owed you a duty of care to operate the vehicle safely.
- Proving breach of duty: You must demonstrate that the driver violated this duty through actions like speeding or distracted driving.
- Linking the breach to your injuries: You must provide evidence that the breach caused the accident and resulted in your injuries.
- Documenting damages: You must present medical records, repair bills, and other documentation to substantiate your losses.
An experienced UPS truck accident attorney can gather evidence to hold the party responsible for your injuries liable.
Common Causes of UPS Truck Accidents
UPS truck accidents have a variety of causes, including:
- Driver fatigue: Truck drivers often face demanding schedules and long hours, which can lead to fatigue and reduced reaction times.
- Distracted driving: Activities such as texting, using a GPS, or eating while driving can divert the driver’s attention from the road.
- Speeding: Some drivers exceed speed limits to meet tight delivery deadlines, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Poor maintenance: Neglecting regular maintenance checks can result in issues such as brake failures, tire blowouts, or engine malfunctions.
- Improper loading: Trucks carrying uneven or unsecured cargo are more likely to lose balance, causing rollovers or other accidents.
- Weather conditions: Rain, fog, or icy roads can make driving more hazardous, particularly for large vehicles like UPS trucks.
- Inadequate training: Drivers who lack proper training may not know how to handle their vehicles safely in challenging situations.
- Road hazards: Potholes, debris, or construction zones can create dangerous situations for all vehicles, including trucks.
- Mechanical defects: Faulty parts or manufacturing defects in the truck itself can contribute to accidents.
What Should You Do if a UPS Truck Hits Your Car?
If you’re involved in an accident with a UPS truck, you should take the following steps to protect your rights and begin building a case:
- Call 911: Move to a safe location and report the accident to the police.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the vehicles, damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Include images of traffic signs, skid marks, or debris.
- Exchange information: Collect the driver’s details, including their name, license number, contact information, and employer details. If there are witnesses, get their contact information as well.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, it’s important to consult a doctor, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Notify your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurer, but avoid giving detailed statements until you’ve consulted a lawyer.
- Contact a lawyer: Contact a truck accident lawyer to begin building your case.
Contact a Fort Myers UPS Truck Accident Attorney Today
A UPS truck accident can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial hardship. However, you don’t have to deal with this hardship alone.
At Viles & Beckman, we work hard for our clients and give each case our full attention. If you’ve been injured, a Fort Myers UPS truck accident attorney from our team can guide you through the claims process and fight for your rights.
Don’t wait to seek justice. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward rebuilding your life.