Compassionate Personal Injury Lawyers Helping Families in Cabarrus County Pursue Justice Following a Tragic Loss
On average, truck accidents are among the most catastrophic collisions on North Carolina roads. Given the significant weight and size of semi-trucks and other commercial vehicles, even a minor collision can end in tragedy. After a fatal truck accident, families face not only the heartbreak of losing a loved one but also a legal labyrinth that—quite frankly—can easily become overwhelming during such a difficult time. On top of this, the financial cost of funeral and burial expenses—as well as the loss of your loved one’s income—only add to the challenges families face.
At the Olsinski Law Firm, PLLC, our dedicated Concord fatal truck accident lawyers have decades of experience helping grieving families pursue the compensation they deserve following tragic and preventable accidents. Our lawyers are compassionate yet aggressive when they need to be, ensuring your interests are well-represented at every stage of the process.
Common Causes of Fatal Truck Accidents in Concord, NC
Accidents don’t just happen; they are almost always the result of driver negligence. In the context of fatal truck accidents, some of the most common causes include the following:
Fatigue: Truckers often drive long hours to meet delivery deadlines. Despite federal regulations that dictate how long they can drive without taking a break, fatigue remains a significant issue. Driving while tired decreases truckers’ alertness and significantly slows their reaction times.
Distracted Driving: Just like with other vehicles, truck drivers may get distracted by cell phones, navigation systems, or other non-driving tasks, resulting in fatal mistakes. In some ways, truckers are more likely to become distracted because they spend so many hours behind the wheel.
Inadequate Training: Driving a large truck requires specialized training. Inexperienced or inadequately trained drivers might not be equipped to handle certain road conditions or make safe maneuvers. In these situations, liability may rest with the trucking company that hired an inexperienced driver.
Equipment Malfunction: A malfunctioning brake system, tire blowouts, or other mechanical failures can be fatal, especially when large trucks are involved. Equipment manufacturers can be held liable for dangerous or defective equipment through a product liability claim.
Impaired Driving: Despite strict regulations, some truck drivers drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, impairing judgment and reflexes. While impaired driving is relatively rare among truck drivers, those who consume illegal drugs typically do so to combat the effects of fatigue or boredom.
Overloading: Trucks that carry loads exceeding permissible weight limits can become difficult to control, especially at high speeds or in challenging terrains. Additionally, the cargo of an improperly loaded truck can suddenly shift, causing the driver to lose control of the rig.
Determining Liability in Fatal Truck Accidents
Establishing fault following a truck accident can be more complex than in typical car accidents due to the number of parties involved. Some potentially liable parties include:
Truck Drivers: If the driver was negligent, under the influence, or violated regulations, they might be held accountable.
Trucking Companies: The trucking company can be held liable if they hired an unqualified driver, did not maintain their fleet, or pressured drivers to violate safety regulations.
Equipment or Vehicle Manufacturers: If a truck's parts or equipment were faulty and contributed to the accident, the manufacturer could be at fault.
Cargo Loaders: Overloading or improperly securing cargo can lead to fatal truck accidents, making the loaders or the entity responsible for loading the truck liable.
The experienced Concord fatal truck accident lawyers at the Olsinski Law Firm, PLLC, can help grieving families understand their recovery options.
Available Damages in Fatal Truck Accidents
For families of victims, pursuing a wrongful death claim can offer some solace by ensuring justice and financial compensation. In North Carolina, families that successfully pursue a wrongful death case following a fatal truck accident may be able to recover compensation for the following:
Medical Expenses
Funeral and Burial Expenses
Lost Wages and Benefits
Loss of Companionship
Punitive Damages
Are You Grieving the Loss of a Loved One Following a Fatal Truck Accident?
If you recently lost a family member as a result of a Concord truck accident, the Olsinski Law Firm, PLLC, is here to help in any way we can. We recognize that some families are understandably overwhelmed following a senseless loss; however, we also have seen first-hand the benefit that a successful wrongful death claim provides. If you’d like to learn more about bringing a wrongful death claim in Charlotte, Concord, or elsewhere in North Carolina, give the Olsinski Law Firm, PLLC, a call to discuss your options. We offer free consultations and can answer your questions in a no-pressure environment. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation with a Charlotte wrongful death attorney, give us a call at 704-405-2580. You can also reach our Concord fatal truck accident attorneys at 704-918-4747. We represent clients in Charlotte and Concord, as well as in Mecklenburg, Gaston, Iredell, Rowan, and Union Counties.
