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Lehi Truck Accident Lawyer

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, our dedicated team of experienced truck accident lawyers is here to help you navigate the complex legal process, fight for your rights, and secure the compensation you deserve. Call us today for a free case review.

If you or a loved one have been involved in a truck accident in Lehi, you know how overwhelming the aftermath can be. These accidents often result in serious injuries, property damage, and emotional distress. Truck accidents are different from typical car accidents due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles, as well as the numerous regulations that govern their operation. 

 

 

Whether the accident was caused by driver fatigue, inadequate maintenance, or negligent trucking companies, our team is committed to thoroughly investigating the circumstances surrounding your case to identify the responsible parties and hold them accountable.

We understand the financial and emotional toll a truck accident can take on your life. That’s why we offer personalized, compassionate legal representation, ensuring you receive the support and compensation you need to recover and move forward. 

With decades of experience, a proven track record of success and a commitment to client satisfaction, Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks is the trusted choice for truck accident victims in Lehi. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you get the justice you deserve.

Overview of Truck Accidents in Lehi

Truck accidents in Lehi, as well as throughout Utah, can lead to devastating consequences. Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, collisions with passenger vehicles often result in catastrophic injuries and extensive property damage. 

Understanding the causes and consequences of truck accidents in Lehi can help victims and their families take the necessary steps to protect their rights and seek compensation for their losses.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Lehi

Truck accidents are often caused by a combination of factors, and many of these factors are unique to the trucking industry. Some of the most common causes of truck accidents in Lehi include:

  • Driver fatigue: Truck drivers are often required to drive long hours, sometimes exceeding the limits set by regulations. Fatigue can significantly impair reaction times, decision-making, and overall driving ability.
  • Improper maintenance: Trucks require regular inspections and maintenance to remain safe on the road. A failure to properly maintain brakes, tires, or other crucial components can lead to accidents.
  • Distracted driving: Like any other driver, truck drivers risk being distracted by mobile devices, in-cab technology, or other factors, leading to collisions.
  • Reckless driving or speeding: In an effort to meet deadlines, some truck drivers engage in reckless behaviors like speeding, tailgating, or aggressive maneuvering, all of which increase the risk of accidents.

Due to the serious nature of truck accidents, victims often face life-changing injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, and internal injuries. 

The medical costs for these injuries can be significant, and recovery may take months or even years. Beyond medical bills, victims may also experience lost wages, emotional trauma, and a reduced quality of life.

Truck accidents are often more severe than typical car crashes due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. Understanding the common causes of these accidents is essential for both preventing future incidents and pursuing compensation for the victims involved. 

Many truck accidents result from a combination of driver error, mechanical failure, and external conditions. Below are some of the most common causes of truck accidents:

Driver Fatigue

One of the leading causes of truck accidents is driver fatigue. Commercial truck drivers are often under pressure to meet tight delivery schedules, which can lead to long hours on the road without sufficient rest. 

Fatigue impairs a driver’s ability to make quick decisions, react to sudden obstacles, and maintain focus. Sleep deprivation is a significant factor in fatigue, which can result in slower reaction times, reduced awareness, and poor judgment, all of which increase the risk of an accident.

 

 

Distracted Driving

Like any other driver, truck drivers can be distracted by mobile phones, GPS devices, or in-cab entertainment systems. However, distractions in the trucking industry may go beyond personal devices. Truck drivers can be distracted by cargo, poor road conditions, or even the need to communicate with dispatchers. 

This can cause them to lose focus on the road, increasing the likelihood of an accident. In recent years, distracted driving has become one of the fastest-growing causes of truck accidents.

Improper Loading or Cargo Shifting

When improperly loaded or secured, cargo can shift during transit, creating an imbalance in the truck’s weight distribution. This can cause the truck to tip over or the driver to lose control, especially while making turns or navigating curves. Additionally, overloaded trucks can strain the vehicle’s brakes and suspension, making it more difficult to stop in time.

Poor Truck Maintenance

Commercial trucks require regular maintenance to ensure they are operating safely. Negligence in maintaining the vehicle, such as failing to check brakes, tires, lights, or engine systems, can lead to mechanical failures. For example, worn-out brakes or defective tires can result in sudden breakdowns or the inability to stop in time, causing an accident.

Speeding or Reckless Driving

Trucking companies often pressure drivers to meet deadlines, which may encourage speeding or reckless driving. When truck drivers exceed speed limits or drive aggressively, it reduces their ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions, such as other vehicles merging or stopping quickly. Additionally, high speeds increase the severity of crashes when they do occur, putting everyone on the road at greater risk.

Weather Conditions

Bad weather conditions, including rain, snow, fog, and ice, can significantly affect truck accidents. Trucks take longer to stop and are more susceptible to hydroplaning or skidding, particularly in adverse weather. Truck drivers must adjust their driving behavior to account for these conditions, but poor visibility and slick roads still lead to accidents, especially when drivers fail to slow down.

 

 

Driver Inexperience or Lack of Training

Inexperienced truck drivers who have not received proper training may lack the necessary skills to handle large commercial vehicles, especially in difficult driving conditions. Lack of experience can lead to mistakes such as misjudging distances, making unsafe lane changes, or failing to account for blind spots. Ensuring truck drivers receive proper training and adhere to regulations is essential in preventing accidents caused by inexperience.

Truck accidents can happen due to a wide range of causes, many of which are preventable. Factors such as fatigue, poor maintenance, and distracted driving are prevalent contributors to crashes. When a truck accident occurs, it is necessary to identify the specific cause of the incident in order to hold the responsible parties accountable. 

Working with an experienced truck accident lawyer can help victims navigate the complexities of these cases and pursue the compensation they deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

 

 

Truck Accident Liability

Truck accident cases can be more complex than regular car accidents because multiple parties may be liable for the crash. This could include:

  • The truck driver
  • The trucking company
  • The manufacturer of the truck or its parts
  • Cargo loaders or shippers

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we have the expertise to identify all potentially responsible parties and pursue justice for victims of truck accidents in Lehi.

Utah’s Trucking Regulations and How They Apply in Lehi

Utah’s trucking regulations are essential to maintaining road safety and ensuring commercial trucks operate within the law. These regulations are designed to protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians by setting standards for trucking operations, including driver qualifications, vehicle maintenance, and operational limits. 

In Lehi, and throughout Utah, these regulations play a crucial role in preventing accidents and ensuring that trucking companies and drivers are held accountable when violations occur. Here’s a look at some of Utah’s key trucking regulations and how they apply to truck accidents in Lehi.

Federal and State Regulations

Utah’s trucking laws are influenced by both federal and state regulations. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration sets national standards for commercial trucking operations, including rules for hours of service, vehicle inspections, and driver qualifications. 

The Utah Highway Patrol and other state authorities enforce these regulations at the state level. In Lehi, local law enforcement works with these agencies to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations and investigate any trucking accidents that may occur.

Hours of Service Regulations

One of the most important trucking regulations is the Hours of Service rule, which limits the number of hours a truck driver can drive in a given period. Under federal regulations, truck drivers cannot drive more than 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off-duty. 

This helps to combat driver fatigue, a leading cause of truck accidents. In Lehi, if a truck driver is found to violate HOS regulations after an accident, it can significantly impact the case and lead to liability for the trucking company.

Truck Maintenance and Inspections

Utah law mandates that trucking companies regularly maintain their vehicles and perform safety inspections to ensure that they are in proper working condition. This includes inspecting brakes, tires, lights, and other critical systems before operating the vehicle. 

In Lehi, if an accident occurs due to mechanical failure, such as worn-out brakes or faulty tires, the trucking company can be held liable for failing to maintain the truck properly.

Weight Limits and Road Safety

Utah enforces weight limits for trucks to prevent overloading, which can lead to unsafe driving conditions. Overloaded trucks may have difficulty stopping or controlling their speed, increasing the risk of accidents. Trucks operating in Lehi must adhere to these weight limits to ensure that they do not cause damage to roads or pose safety risks to other drivers.

Truck Driver Drug and Alcohol Testing

Truck drivers in Utah are subject to strict drug and alcohol testing regulations. Random testing is required for drivers operating commercial vehicles, and drivers are prohibited from operating a truck under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If a truck driver is found to be intoxicated after an accident in Lehi, they could face criminal charges in addition to being held liable for the accident.

Utah’s trucking regulations are designed to promote safety and prevent accidents on the road. By ensuring that truck drivers and companies comply with these rules, Utah works to reduce the risk of truck accidents in Lehi and across the state. 

 

 

Determining Liability in Truck Accident Cases

This can be complex due to the number of factors that may contribute to the crash. Unlike passenger vehicle accidents, where fault is often straightforward, truck accidents involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, the trucking company, and even vehicle manufacturers. 

In Lehi, determining liability requires a thorough investigation and a clear understanding of how negligence or violations of safety regulations may have contributed to the accident. 

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, with decades of experience securing favorable outcomes for clients across various personal injury cases, we are prepared to help you navigate the particular circumstances of your case.  

Truck Driver’s Role in Liability

Examining the driver’s actions is one of the first aspects of determining liability in a truck accident. If the driver was at fault due to negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, driving under the influence, or violating Hours of Service regulations, they could be held personally liable for the accident. 

For example, if the driver was fatigued due to exceeding the allowed driving hours, this could significantly impact their liability in the case.

Trucking Company’s Responsibility

The trucking company may also share liability, especially if the driver’s actions were within the scope of employment. Companies have a responsibility to ensure that their drivers are properly trained, follow safety regulations, and operate well-maintained vehicles. 

If the accident was caused by an issue related to the truck’s maintenance, such as faulty brakes or worn-out tires, the trucking company could be liable for failing to properly inspect or maintain the vehicle.

Vehicle Maintenance and Equipment Failure

In some truck accidents, the cause of the crash may not lie with the driver but with the vehicle itself. If an accident occurs due to mechanical failure, such as a brake malfunction or tire blowout, the trucking company or vehicle manufacturer may be liable for failing to maintain the truck properly. In some cases, the manufacturer may also be held accountable if a defect in the truck’s design or parts led to the accident.

Third-Party Liability

In addition to the truck driver and trucking company, third parties such as maintenance providers, cargo loaders, and even vehicle manufacturers may be partially or fully responsible for the accident. For instance, if the cargo was improperly loaded, causing the truck to become unstable and resulting in a crash, the company responsible for loading the cargo may share liability.

Comparative Fault in Utah

Utah follows a modified comparative fault rule, which means that more than one party can be found at fault in an accident. Each party’s level of fault is assessed, and compensation is distributed based on the percentage of responsibility assigned to each party. 

For example, if the truck driver is 70% at fault and the other party (such as another driver) is 30% at fault, the truck driver would be responsible for 70% of the damages.

By identifying the responsible parties and holding them accountable, you can pursue a successful claim and ensure your rights are protected.

 

 

Steps to Take After a Truck Accident in Lehi

After a truck accident in Lehi, the steps you take can significantly impact your ability to secure compensation for your injuries and damages. A truck accident often involves more severe injuries and damages due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, so it’s crucial to act quickly and follow these important steps.

Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention

First and foremost, check yourself and others for injuries. Call 911 immediately to ensure emergency medical services are dispatched if you or anyone else is injured. 

Even if injuries appear minor, it’s important to seek medical attention, as some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent. Getting checked by a healthcare professional can also provide essential documentation for your claim.

Call the Police

Always contact law enforcement after a truck accident. The police will create an accident report, which can serve as vital evidence in your case. Be sure to request a copy of the police report, as it will outline key details about the accident, including any citations issued and the initial findings regarding fault. This report is often one of the first documents insurance companies and attorneys will review.

Document the Scene

If you are physically able, take photos of the accident scene, the damage to your vehicle, the truck, and any visible injuries. Photographs of skid marks, road conditions, and the positions of the vehicles can provide valuable evidence to support your case. 

Also, gather the truck driver’s information, including their name, contact details, driver’s license number, insurance information, and the trucking company they work for.

Obtain Witness Information

If there were any witnesses to the accident, be sure to get their contact information. Their testimony can help corroborate your version of events and be valuable in determining liability. Eyewitness statements can provide critical insights that strengthen your case.

 

 

Notify Your Insurance Company

After a truck accident, you must notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with the details of the accident, but avoid giving a recorded statement without speaking with an attorney first. Insurance companies may attempt to minimize your compensation, and an experienced lawyer can guide you on what to say and what to avoid.

Consult an Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accident cases are more complex than regular car accidents due to the involvement of large commercial entities, insurance policies, and federal regulations. It’s crucial to consult with a lawyer who specializes in truck accidents to help you navigate the legal process. A skilled Lehi truck accident lawyer can investigate the cause of the accident, identify all liable parties, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.

Preserve Evidence and Avoid Settlement Offers

It’s important to preserve all evidence related to the accident, including medical records, vehicle repair estimates, and communications with insurance companies. Be cautious about accepting quick settlement offers from insurance companies, as they often aim to minimize payouts. Your lawyer will help you assess whether a settlement is fair or if pursuing legal action is necessary.

The steps you take after a truck accident in Lehi can directly impact your case’s outcome. From ensuring safety and seeking medical attention to documenting the scene and contacting a lawyer, each action you take is crucial in protecting your rights. 

Compensation Available for Truck Accident Victims

Truck accident victims in Lehi can experience severe injuries and significant property damage due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. Fortunately, compensation may be available to help cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. 

The amount of compensation you are entitled to can depend on various factors, such as the severity of your injuries, the circumstances surrounding the accident, and who is determined to be at fault. Below are the types of compensation that might be available to truck accident victims.

Medical Expenses

One of the most significant areas of compensation for truck accident victims is the reimbursement for medical expenses. This can include:

  • Emergency room visits
  • Hospital stays
  • Surgery costs
  • Physical therapy
  • Rehabilitation services
  • Ongoing medical treatment or home care for severe injuries

These expenses can accumulate quickly, and you shouldn’t have to pay for them out-of-pocket if the truck driver or trucking company was at fault.

Lost Wages

Truck accident victims may experience temporary or permanent inability to work due to their injuries. Compensation for lost wages can help replace the income you have lost due to being unable to work. This can include:

  • Time off work for recovery
  • Reduced earning capacity due to long-term injury or disability

If your injuries are severe enough to impair your ability to work in the future, you may also be entitled to compensation for future lost earnings.

 

 

Pain and Suffering

In addition to financial losses, victims of truck accidents may be entitled to compensation for non-economic damages, such as:

  • Physical pain
  • Emotional distress
  • Mental anguish

Pain and suffering can have long-lasting effects on your quality of life, and the compensation for these damages is intended to provide some relief for the emotional and physical toll caused by the accident.

Property Damage

Truck accidents often result in significant damage to vehicles. Compensation for property damage can help repair or replace your vehicle and any personal property damaged in the crash. This may include:

  • Damage to your vehicle
  • Personal items inside the vehicle, such as electronics or valuables

The trucking company’s insurance should cover the cost of property damage if they are found to be liable.

Wrongful Death

If a loved one tragically dies in a truck accident, their family may be entitled to compensation through a wrongful death claim. This can cover:

  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Loss of companionship and consortium
  • Loss of financial support, if the deceased was a primary breadwinner

Punitive Damages

In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the truck driver’s behavior was reckless or egregious. These are intended to punish the at-fault party and deter similar actions in the future. Examples of conduct that may lead to punitive damages include drunk driving, gross negligence, or deliberate actions to cause harm.

To ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve, it’s important to consult with one of our experienced truck accident lawyers in Lehi who can help navigate the legal process and advocate on your behalf.

Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Truck Accident

Dealing with insurance companies after a truck accident can be a complex and stressful process. Truck accidents often involve multiple parties, such as the truck driver, the trucking company, and their insurance providers, making the claims process more complicated. 

Understanding how to handle insurance companies effectively ensures you receive fair compensation for injuries and losses. Below are some important things to keep in mind when dealing with insurance companies after a truck accident.

Understand the Role of Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are businesses focused on minimizing their financial liability. While obligated to compensate accident victims, they often try to settle claims for as little as possible. 

They may use various tactics to downplay the severity of your injuries or shift blame onto you to reduce the payout. It’s crucial to understand that their goal is not always aligned with your best interests.

 

 

Do Not Accept the First Settlement Offer

After a truck accident, you may receive an initial settlement offer from the insurance company. This offer is typically lower than what you deserve and is often made quickly to close the case before you have fully assessed the extent of your injuries and damages. 

It’s important not to accept the first offer without consulting an attorney. An experienced truck accident lawyer can help you evaluate the offer and determine if it adequately covers your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Document Everything

Documentation is key when dealing with insurance companies. Be sure to keep detailed records of all medical treatment, repairs to your vehicle, and any other expenses related to the accident. These records will serve as crucial evidence when negotiating a fair settlement. Additionally, gather:

  • Police reports
  • Witness statements
  • Photos of the accident scene and your injuries
  • Communication with insurance adjusters

Consult with an Attorney

Navigating the insurance claims process without legal representation can be challenging, especially if the insurance company is being difficult or uncooperative. 

A skilled truck accident lawyer can handle negotiations with the insurance companies on your behalf. They will ensure your rights are protected, and you are not taken advantage of. With their expertise, they can help gather evidence, deal with the necessary paperwork, and fight for a fair settlement.

Be Cautious About Giving Statements

Insurance companies may ask you to provide a recorded statement about the accident. While it’s important to cooperate, be cautious about what you say. Anything you say can be used against you later in the process. It’s wise to consult with your attorney before giving any statements or signing anything.

Know When to File a Lawsuit

If negotiations with the insurance company break down or they offer an unfair settlement, you may need to pursue legal action. Your attorney can advise whether filing a lawsuit is the best course of action. Keep in mind that there is a statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Utah, so you must act quickly if you decide to move forward with litigation.

How Our Firm Assists Truck Accident Victims in Lehi

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we understand the profound impact a truck accident can have on victims and their families. Truck accidents often result in severe injuries due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, and navigating the legal process can be overwhelming. Our firm is dedicated to helping truck accident victims in Lehi secure the compensation they deserve. Here’s how we assist in these complex cases:

Thorough Investigation of the Accident

The first step in handling any truck accident claim is to conduct a comprehensive investigation. Our team works diligently to gather all the relevant evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage from nearby cameras. 

We also examine the truck’s black box data, driving logs, and maintenance records to determine if driver negligence, improper maintenance, or violations of trucking regulations contributed to the accident. By thoroughly investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, we identify all liable parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, and possibly third-party maintenance providers.

 

 

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are notorious for offering low settlements to accident victims, especially in truck accident cases where the stakes are high. Our firm has extensive experience negotiating with insurance companies and their adjusters. 

We ensure that the full scope of your injuries and damages is accounted for, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term rehabilitation needs. We handle all communications with the insurance companies, ensuring they don’t take advantage of you or undervalue your claim.

Fighting for Fair Compensation

Truck accidents often involve multiple parties and complex legal issues, making having a skilled attorney by your side essential. Our team is committed to fighting for fair compensation for our clients, ensuring your interests are protected every step of the way. 

We help you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering. We are prepared to take your case to court to ensure you receive the justice you deserve.

Legal Guidance Throughout the Process

Dealing with the aftermath of a truck accident is stressful, and the legal process can be difficult to navigate. Our attorneys provide personalized guidance throughout every stage of your case. From filing the claim and gathering evidence to negotiating settlements or litigating in court, we handle all aspects of the legal process so that you can focus on recovering.

Understanding of Utah Trucking Laws

Truck accident cases often involve complex regulations, including federal and state trucking laws. Our firm is well-versed in the intricacies of Utah’s trucking laws, and we use this knowledge to build a strong case on your behalf. Whether it’s ensuring the trucking company adhered to safety regulations or determining if the driver violated hours-of-service rules, we leverage our legal expertise to advocate for your best interests.

Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accident Claims in Lehi

Truck accident claims are more complex because they often involve multiple liable parties, such as the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, and cargo loaders. Additionally, federal and state trucking regulations impact liability, making legal expertise essential in these cases.

Yes, in many cases, the trucking company may share liability for the accident. If the company failed to properly train the driver, enforce safety regulations, or maintain the truck, they can be held responsible.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations set strict requirements for trucking companies and drivers, including hours-of-service limits, vehicle maintenance, and cargo securement. Violations of these laws can serve as evidence of negligence in your claim.

If the trucking company denies fault, we conduct an in-depth investigation, gathering black box data, maintenance records, and employment logs to prove negligence.

Utah follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages as long as you are less than 50% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. 

 

Trust Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Lehi, you don’t have to face the legal process alone. The Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks team is committed to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. 

With extensive experience handling complex truck accident claims, we provide personalized legal guidance every step of the way. Contact us today at (801) 500-4000 for a free consultation and let us help you pursue justice.

Call today for a free consultion!

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OUR HEROES

“When there has been a serious auto accident and all you can do is concentrate on getting your critically injured family member well again, you need someone who will have your back. That someone is Mark Flickinger. He is qualified, capable, confident and will fight for your best interests. His staff are supreme and articulate. Together they made our lives good again and will always be our heroes.”
– Karen S.