Norfolk Truck Accident Lawyer

As a Norfolk truck accident lawyer, I understand the risks associated with commercial vehicle traffic. Unfortunately, a collision with a large truck can result in expensive medical bills, lost wages from missing work, and other damages.

I’m Ed Atkinson, attorney and business owner of Atkinson Law. I’m here to provide legal support if you were harmed in an accident. With my extensive experience as a Norfolk personal injury lawyer, I can help you get the financial compensation you deserve.

I represent injured accident victims in Norfolk, VA, and the surrounding areas. Please call me or complete the online contact form for a free, no-risk consultation today.

What Can a Norfolk Truck Accident Lawyer Do for My Case?

As an experienced truck accident attorney with 15 years of experience, I empathize with what you’re going through. I will fight to pursue the settlement you need to get your life back on track.

Here’s what I can do for your case:

• Investigate the crash: As your lawyer, I will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and reconstruct the accident to identify the liable parties.
• Calculate damages: I will calculate the damages you are entitled to, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• File a lawsuit: If necessary, I will file a lawsuit and fight for you in court.
• Provide legal advice: As a licensed personal injury attorney, I can provide legal advice and answer any questions you may have beginning with your free consultation.
• Protect your rights: I am here to protect your legal rights and make sure you are treated fairly throughout the claims and litigation process.

What you do after a truck crash will impact the value of your claim. As your attorney, I will help you take the right steps to maximize your award.

What Compensation Can I Recover After a Virginia Truck Collision?

Regarding a Norfolk big rig accident settlement, the amount paid to you should be enough to cover all your past, ongoing, and future expenses. I will help you clearly show how much money you spent after the crash and how much more you are likely to spend.

The settlement or award you could recover after a commercial truck accident depends on the specifics of your case but might include the following:

• Medical expenses: This refers to any medical bills you had to pay after the collision, including hospital stays, surgeries, follow-up visits, physical therapy, and other medical treatments necessary for your recovery.
• Lost income: If you cannot work due to your injuries, you may be able to recoup the wages you lost.
• Property damage: If your vehicle or other property was damaged in the collision, you need compensation for repairs or replacement costs.
• Pain and mental anguish: In addition to economic damages (like medical expenses and lost wages), you may qualify for non-economic damages for the physical and emotional pain you experienced.

It’s important to note that the specific amount you may be able to recover after a crash will depend on the facts of your case. However, I can explain your legal options and determine how much your personal injury case is worth.

During my practice, I have built a track record of successful case results, so you can trust me to invest all my resources in securing a win. Your trust in me is not taken lightly, and I’m dedicated to delivering the best possible outcome for your case.

Negotiate With the Insurance Company for a Fair Settlement

Dealing with insurance claims after a crash can be tricky. Adjusters want to save money, so they will try to pay you less than you deserve, even if it’s clear their client caused the collision. You need a personal injury lawyer on your side to tip the scale in your favor. As someone who’s worked for insurance companies before becoming a truck accident attorney, I know their tricks well.

When an insurance adjuster contacts you, remember they’re not on your side; they want to minimize what they have to pay. But don’t worry, I’ll handle all the talks with them and the trucking company, making sure they know exactly what you’re owed.

While it is difficult to determine the average settlement for a truck accident case in Virginia, after reviewing the details of your situation, I can offer an informed estimate of how much you should recover. If we can’t settle with the insurance company, I’m ready to go to court for you.

Compassionate Legal Support After a Fatal Truck Accident

If you’ve lost a loved one in a truck crash, please accept my condolences. I understand the immense pain that comes with such a tragic loss. In this difficult time, I’m here to provide both legal guidance and compassionate support. As an experienced wrongful death lawyer in Norfolk, I will help you honor your loved one’s memory by seeking justice.

Wrongful death damages in Virginia include:

• Medical expenses related to the victim’s injury before death
• Funeral and burial costs
• Sorrow and mental anguish
• Loss of guidance
• The value of lost income

You have the right to file a wrongful death claim after a deadly truck accident to recover your losses. But you don’t have to navigate this challenging journey alone; let me guide you through the legal process.

How Much Time Do I Have to File a Claim?

If you are a truck accident victim, it’s important to act quickly due to the strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims in Virginia. The time limit is outlined in the Code of Virginia § 8.01-243.

While the exact timeframe for filing depends on your unique circumstances, the Virginia statute of limitations for bodily injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. The statute of limitations for a wrongful death claim is also two years.

Failing to file your truck accident claim within Virginia’s statute of limitations may result in losing your right to seek damages. It’s also important to quickly gather and preserve evidence to strengthen your claim. The sooner you contact me, the easier your financial recovery will be.

Can I Afford to Pay for a Norfolk Truck Accident Attorney?

I understand that the cost of legal representation can concern accident victims. That’s why I handle cases on a contingency fee basis. There is zero risk when you choose me for your personal injury claim because I only get paid when we win.

You owe nothing if I don’t succeed in court or through negotiations. My firm covers the upfront costs of your case, including court fees, expert witness fees, and investigation costs. My fee is a percentage of your final settlement or jury award, and we will discuss that percentage before you commit.

What Sets Atkinson Law Apart From Other Personal Injury Firms?

I established my personal injury law firm in August 2014 to break the mold of traditional law firms and focus on providing exceptional client service. I offer the opposite of a big box store experience. Instead, this is a local business that needs your support and seeks to win your trust at every step.

Five-Star Legal Service

My Google reviews are all five stars because I provide top-quality service to people from all walks of life. Atkinson Law quickly became successful in this competitive field because I always give my best as a personal injury lawyer to secure a win.

I will keep delivering five-star services; it’s what I do best, and it’s what you deserve.

I Provide Regular Updates Regarding Your Norfolk Truck Accident Lawsuit

If a client wants me to call them daily with a case update, I will do so. I am always there for clients in the way that works best for them. Whether it’s daily calls, weekly emails, or in-person meetings, I will keep you informed every step of the way. Your peace of mind is my priority, and I’ll make sure you feel supported and informed throughout your legal journey.

I Will Travel to Your Location for Free

As an experienced semi-truck accident lawyer in Norfolk, I have seen the devastating injuries survivors face. If you can’t visit my office, I will come to you free of charge. Whether you are recovering in a hospital bed or at home, we can still meet in person to discuss the details of your case. Also, if you prefer, we could schedule a video call at your convenience.

I Can Provide You With Healthcare Options for Your Injuries

In addition, if you need medical care for minor or severe injuries, I know many providers and can offer you options while waiting for a settlement. Some providers can make financial arrangements if you have limited access to healthcare otherwise.

There are many choices to consider when looking for a truck accident attorney in Norfolk. However, Atkinson Law offers premium, customized services to match your objectives.

Key Aspects of the Legal Landscape in the Virginia Trucking Industry

The trucking industry follows a complex legal framework shaped by standard state traffic and negligence laws on the one hand and special regulations for tractor-trailers on the other. The primary goal of these laws is to ensure the safety of all road users by reducing the likelihood of accidents and maintaining high standards for trucking operations.

The following table illustrates nine key aspects of the legal landscape related to the Virginia trucking industry:

Aspect	Authority/Agency	Description
1. Federal regulations	FMCSA	As in all states, trucking companies and drivers in Virginia must adhere to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) established and enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
2. State regulations	Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)	In addition to federal regulations, trucking companies and drivers must comply with Virginia’s traffic and negligence laws. These laws are enforced by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
3. Permissible load weight	FMCSA, Virginia DMV	Virginia enforces the federal weight limits set by the FMCSA. Additionally, Virginia has state-specific weight restrictions and permitting requirements for certain routes or bridges. Trucking companies and drivers should consult the Virginia DMV for weight restrictions.
4. Loading procedures	FMCSA, Virginia DMV	Trucking companies and drivers in Norfolk, VA, must follow federal loading procedures and securement regulations established by the FMCSA and state-specific requirements enforced by the Virginia DMV.
5. Hazardous materials	FMCSA, PHMSA, DOT, Virginia DMV	Hazardous material transportation is subject to strict regulations to prevent accidents and minimize harm to the environment and public health. The FMCSA, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), the Virginia DMV, and the Department of Transportation (DOT) all regulate hazardous material transportation.
6. Hours of service	FMCSA	To combat driver fatigue, truck drivers operating in Virginia must follow the federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations established by the FMCSA. These dictate the maximum number of consecutive hours they can drive without rest.
7. Trailer maintenance	FMCSA, Virginia DMV	Trucking companies and drivers in Norfolk, VA, must adhere to the federal maintenance regulations set by the FMCSA and state-specific maintenance requirements enforced by the Virginia DMV to keep their vehicles in safe operating condition.
8. Licensing and training	Virginia DMV, FMCSA	Norfolk truck drivers must obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) issued by the Virginia DMV to legally operate a tractor-trailer in Virginia. The Virginia DMV follows the minimum standards for CDL testing and training established by the FMCSA.
9. Liability and insurance	Virginia DMV, Insurance Companies	Trucking companies and drivers in Virginia are required to carry liability insurance to cover potential damages and injuries caused by their negligence. The Virginia DMV sets the minimum insurance requirements, while insurance companies provide the coverage.

Trucking companies and drivers operating in Virginia must comply with these regulations to ensure road safety and responsible business practices. A truck driver or trucking company may be deemed negligent if non-compliance to one of these laws results in an accident. As a semi-truck accident lawyer in Norfolk, I can explain how these laws will apply to your injury claim.

Common Causes for Truck Accidents

Motor vehicle accidents on the highway often occur during passing or changing lanes. Most drivers can relate to the tense feeling of being passed by a massive truck, which is so large it nearly occupies more than a single lane.

Common truck accident causes include:

• Driver fatigue
• Distracted driving
• Speeding
• Poor weather conditions
• Improper loading or cargo securement
• Mechanical failure
• Inadequate maintenance
• Reckless driving

To avoid tractor-trailer accidents, Norfolk, VA, commercial truck drivers must ensure they can safely overtake another vehicle before attempting to do that. They must also stay in one lane as much as possible, pay full attention to the roadway, use a turn signal, and not speed. A truck driver who violates any of these legal standards may be negligent if it results in an accident.

Common Truck Accident Injuries for Which You Can File a Claim

Due to the size and mass of the vehicles involved in 18-wheeler accidents, the injuries and damage sustained are greater than those following a standard motor vehicle accident. They are typically much more severe, disruptive to your life, and, in some cases, fatal.

The following are common types of injuries you may experience in an 18-wheeler collision:

• Spinal cord injuries
• Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Internal injuries, including organ damage
• Severe burns
• Limb and torso injuries

If you were severely hurt, I can also serve as your Norfolk brain injury lawyer or Norfolk spinal cord injury lawyer and build a strong claim around your condition. We will work together closely to prove how the catastrophic injury changed your and your family’s lives forever.

Even whiplash or a relatively minor broken bone can leave you with chronic pain and costly medical bills. You may also be dealing with emotional trauma from the accident, which can cause severe anxiety, one of the main symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Contact Norfolk Truck Accident Attorney Ed Atkinson Today

The road to recovery can be long and difficult. But taking the first step toward obtaining a settlement or court award is as simple as picking up the phone. Atkinson Law has served injured clients in Virginia since 2014.

If you are looking for a compassionate truck accident attorney in Norfolk, contact me. My clients have consistently given my firm high marks for results and client service. Call or fill out a free online consultation form to discuss your legal options.