TYPES OF CLAIMS

Truck Accidents

Get the trucking accident settlement you’re owed.

Truck Accidents

Experience & Results

Lawsuits that involve large freight trucks are far more complex than traditional car accidents. Trucks maybe 25 times larger than the average vehicle, which increases the size of the driver’s blind spots. In turn, this creates a potentially hazardous situation on the road for those driving alongside them.

Insurance firms and big-rig trucking companies use heavy-hitting tactics to force an injured party into a settlement for much less than they deserve, effectively silencing their victims. These cases are time-sensitive and having representation that you can trust is essential to securing a successful outcome. Our leading trucking accidents attorneys in Lafayette will make sure your voice is heard.

With over 50 years of combined experience, we use our knowledge and expertise to ensure that accidents are investigated fully and efficiently. When big-rig trucking companies try to intimidate you, and insurance Goliaths turn their back on you, we’ll help you stand up to them and get you the truck accident settlement you’re owed.

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Do I need an attorney if I was involved in a trucking accident?

Yes! An experienced attorney is familiar with state and federal laws surrounding trucking regulations that the average person might not be aware of. The trucking company and the insurance company will waste no expense to fight your claim, no matter how outright it may seem. In their attempt to bury the facts, many who choose to forego representation are left without substantial evidence to prove their case. Information may be withheld, vehicles involved in the accident may be quickly and discreetly repaired, and the victims are left with their injuries and mounting medical expenses.

Should I contact the company that owns the truck that caused my accident?

No! These companies may try to force false statements or present misleading questions to you without your knowledge to steer the story in their favor. Most companies use recording devices for all phone calls, and it will be used against you in court. Let your attorney handle these conversations, however, you are free to be present if you are able.

What is the timeframe that I need to present an injury claim?

This answer varies from state-to-state, however in Louisiana lawsuits must be filed within one year of the accident.

How long do these lawsuits take?

Every case is different, and the length of time needed to resolve your case will vary. Some may settle quickly while others will drag out over the course of several years.

What should I do if I'm in an accident with a big-rig truck?

  • Stop! Do not leave the scene. If you must, remove yourself, your vehicle, and passengers from travel lanes.
  • Call emergency services immediately.
  • Quickly assess injuries to yourself and others at the scene, including passengers and other drivers.
  • If you’re able, take photos and video to formally document everything involved in the accident prior to the arrival of emergency services. This includes pictures/videos of the scene, each vehicle with different angles, injuries to yourself or others, and take note of skid-marks or debris on or near the road, without putting yourself in further danger.
  • Gather names, contact information, insurance information, and witness accounts. These facts will help to support your case.
  • Accept emergency services to assess for injury. You may not immediately realize you are injured due to a post-crash adrenaline rush, and serious complications may arise from unseen problems.
    Allowing medical staff to treat you also helps to establish a paper trail to ensure that you have proof of your injuries.
  • Do not sign anything without having it reviewed by your attorney!
  • Avoid discussing the details with others outside your immediate circle and/or your attorney’s office. This helps to prevent these statements from being used against you to diminish the severity of your injuries.

What other evidence can I use to support my injury claim?

There are several things that you and your attorney can use to corroborate your injury claim. Evidence includes but is not limited to witness statements, traffic camera footage, your own personal documentation of the scene, skid-mark analysis, medical records or bills, and police reports.

What are common injuries sustained in truck accidents?

There are a wide variety of injuries that one can sustain in a trucking accident. Injuries may range from concussions to broken bones, or even death. No two accidents are alike, one person may sustain only minor to moderate injuries while a fatality is a result of another similar situation.

What’s the most common cause of trucking accidents?

Driver negligence – from both parties. Car Driver Negligence can include the following:

  • Driving in truck blind spots. These are called “no-zones” in the industry. A truck will often feature a sign warning other drivers that if they cannot see a truck’s side mirrors, then it is likely that the truck driver can’t see them.
  • Miscalculating speeds and turning in front of them.
  • Improperly merging into traffic.

Truck driver negligence can include the following:

  • Inadequate training.
  • Operator fatigue. The regulations on driving for long, interrupted periods of time are strict, but drivers are still allowed to go up to 8 hours without taking a break.
  • Incentives for speedy delivery, which can lead to speeding and other reckless driving behaviors.
  • Failure to adequately brake. Because of their momentum, trucks need to take special care when coming to a stop at intersections and in traffic. Failing to leave adequate space may result in a rear-ending collision.
  • Accidents while turning. Trucks often need the space of two turning lanes, and if a truck driver fails to use caution when turning, they may find themselves liable for any accident injuries
  • Trailer swing from sharp braking due to traffic or weather conditions, where the trailer swings around to form a 90-degree angle with the cab. These accidents may not be the driver’s fault and present a complex situation in personal injury cases.

Client Testimonials

I have been a client of Charlie Brandt for thirty sum years. And during this life time being a client of his he has treated me be like family, me and my family. And I got a change to meet Kyle Sherman and Kenny Habetz and Robert Brandt. And they all is great lawyers I would recommend any one to to be their client. Great honest men that will help you in your need whether it’s small or big. You will truly be satisfied with Brandt & Sherman Law Firm. You wont regret giving them a chance to handle your important business for great results because that’s how professional they are when it comes to being your voice your lawyer!

Abbie Oliver

Best law firm hands down. The kindest and most caring people you will meet. You walk in as a client and end up becoming apart of the family. I strongly recommend them.

Dawn Cormier

Best lawyers and staff around!!! They have helped me and my family out multiple times. Always there for us answered all questions and help to put us at ease when we were not sure on things. They are overall amazing!!! –

Stephanie Cloteaux