Franklin Truck Accident Lawyer

Getting hit by a truck can be disastrous. Because of the size difference between commercial trucks and smaller vehicles, a crash can cause serious injuries, major property damage, and even death. As an experienced Franklin truck accident lawyer, I know how devastating these accidents can be.

If a negligent truck driver injured you, you deserve money for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages. I’m Ed Atkinson, and when you choose me as your Franklin personal injury lawyer, I will investigate your accident and work hard to help you recover your losses.

Call Atkinson Law now to discuss your truck accident claim, or keep reading to learn more about how I handle these cases.

The Right Lawyer for Your Franklin Truck Accident Case

In my 15 years as an attorney, I have handled many truck accident claims and have seen the effects on victims’ lives. If one of these accidents has left you injured, I’m here to stand up for your rights and guide you through the legal process.

Truck accident cases tend to be more complicated than regular car accidents. Large trucks can cause more damage due to their size and weight. Additionally, many state and federal regulations govern the trucking industry. 

For example, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates driving hours, while the Virginia DMV oversees size, weight, and equipment rules. I understand how these regulations may impact your personal injury claim, and my experience with truck accident claims can make a difference in winning your case. 

Getting Paid After a Truck Accident

If a careless or reckless truck driver injures you, you have the right to seek payment for your losses. As your lawyer, I am dedicated to helping you get a fair settlement or court award. I will investigate your accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case for you.

You probably already know you can recover medical expenses and property damage, but you may also receive money for other losses. Depending on the facts of your case, you could get a payout that covers the following damages:

• Medical bills
• Future medical costs
• Lost income
• Loss of future earnings
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Disfigurement
• Wrongful death (if a loved one was killed)

As a Franklin truck accident lawyer, it’s my job to help you recover as much money as possible for everything you’ve been through.

Punitive Damages

Virginia courts may award punitive damages in certain situations. These aim to penalize the at-fault party and prevent similar negligent conduct in the future. To qualify for punitive damages, you must show that the responsible party knowingly ignored the safety and rights of others on the road. 

This important step involves proving the truck driver acted with extreme recklessness or did something that showed an “unlawful disregard” for your safety. For example, in accidents caused by drunk driving, you may seek punitive damages, especially if the at-fault driver’s blood alcohol level was 0.15% or more.

As your lawyer, I can review the details of your case to determine whether punitive damages are in order. 

Figuring Out Who Is at Fault in a Franklin Truck Accident

Truck accident cases tend to be more complicated than standard car crashes for a few reasons. First, multiple parties may be at fault, so determining liability is trickier. Dealing with a trucking company can also be challenging. These companies often have their own legal teams, making it difficult for victims to win without a lawyer.

At-fault parties in a truck accident may include the following:

• The truck driver
• The trucking company
• The truck owner
• The loading company
• A mechanic or maintenance company
• Government agencies

As your attorney, I’ll identify all responsible parties so you can get the maximum amount of money available. Using your medical records and other evidence, I’ll calculate all your accident losses, including estimated future expenses. 

Virginia’s Time Limit for Personal Injury Lawsuits

In Virginia, we have a time limit for taking legal action. Under Code of Virginia § 8.01-243, you typically have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit. Some situations can shorten or lengthen this time limit. 

While two years seems like a long time, it’s never a good idea to wait to talk to a lawyer. Getting legal help right away will improve your chances of a successful claim because it will give your lawyer more time to build a strong case for you.

If you wait too long to contact an attorney, the evidence you need to win your case could get lost or destroyed, and witnesses might forget important details about what they saw.

Contact Atkinson Law for a Free Consultation

You only have one chance to get justice for your truck accident. Reach out to me today so I can begin working right away. I can meet with you in person, we can talk over the phone, or we can meet online. During our first meeting, I will listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your options. 

If you decide to hire me, you’ll pay nothing upfront or out of pocket. I only get paid when we win, and my fees come out of your settlement or court award. As an experienced truck accident lawyer serving Franklin, I can provide the support you need and help you make the right choices about your case.

Contact my personal injury law firm today to schedule a free consultation.