Truckers who follow the hours of service regulations might be able to travel 600 or 700 miles in a single day. In other words, all 18 of their tires put up with a lot of abuse, especially when the road conditions are less than perfect and the cargo they’re hauling is heavy.
Although commercial tires are designed to withstand immense wear and tear, blowouts can and do occur. The consequences are often devastating. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, tire-related crashes were responsible for more than 700 traffic fatalities in 2017 alone.
If you were hurt in a truck accident caused by a tire blowout, you probably have a lot of questions regarding the personal injury claims process. To determine the best way to proceed with your case, contact Coxwell & Associates.
We have won nearly $300 million for our clients in successful settlements and verdicts. To schedule a free consultation with a truck accident lawyer in Jackson, call (601) 265-7766.
Read on for the answers to a few general questions about tire blowout truck accident claims:
3. Who Might Be Liable for a Truck Accident Caused by a Tire Blowout?
When a tire blowout causes a truck accident, there are a few parties who could be responsible. Potentially liable parties include:
- The commercial driver;
- The motor carrier;
- The maintenance contractor;
- The tire manufacturer, retailer, or installer; and
- The municipality responsible for maintaining the roads.
2. How Do You Prove Fault for a Tire Blowout?
In general, the strongest evidence of fault will depend on the circumstances of the incident. If the trucker is liable, for example, valuable proof might include the driver logs, black box data, and maintenance records. When a defect causes a blowout, on the other hand, the tire itself may be the strongest evidence of the manufacturer’s liability. Regardless of the circumstances, a lawyer can help you gather sufficient evidence of both liability and damages after conducting a thorough investigation.
3. Should I Hire a Personal Injury Attorney Following a Tire Blowout Truck Accident?
If you were hurt in a large truck crash caused by a tire blowout, you will likely have to file a claim with a major insurance provider regardless of who is liable. In other words, you will have to go up against skilled negotiators whose primary goal is to deny or at least reduce the value of every claim that comes their way.
Although it’s possible to file a claim without legal counsel, hiring an attorney will level the playing field. Lawyers are experienced negotiators, and your legal team will not let the insurance adjuster manipulate you into making compromising statements or accepting an unfair settlement.
Call (601) 265-7766 for a Free Consultation with a Jackson Truck Accident Attorney
If you want to file a truck accident claim in Mississippi, turn to Coxwell & Associates for reliable guidance at every stage of the proceedings. We have been representing clients throughout the Magnolia State for more than 35 years. Call (601) 265-7766 or use our Online Contact Form to schedule a free case evaluation with a personal injury lawyer in Jackson.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended as general information purposes only, and is not a substitute for legal advice. Anyone with a legal problem should consult a lawyer immediately.