If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Orem or surrounding areas, you understand how overwhelming it can be. The aftermath of a truck accident can be physically painful, emotionally draining, and financially stressful. In such moments, you need someone who understands the local laws and will fight for your rights. That’s where Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks comes in.
As experienced Orem truck accident lawyers, we’re here to help you navigate the legal complexities and secure the compensation you deserve. Keep reading to learn more about truck accidents, your legal rights, and how we can help if you have been injured in Orem.
Orem is a lively city in Utah County, with busy roads connecting neighborhoods, shopping areas, and nearby highways. The city also has various commercial and industrial zones, which means large trucks often travel through.
While these trucks are crucial for delivering goods and keeping businesses running, their size and weight can also pose serious risks to other drivers.
Truck accidents in Orem can cause severe injuries. When a large tractor-trailer collides with a smaller car, the impact is much more intense than a collision between two passenger vehicles.
Victims may suffer broken bones, head trauma, or spinal cord injuries that require long hospital stays and expensive treatments. Recovery can take months or years, affecting a victim’s job, finances, and daily routine.
Let’s take a look at some of the most common causes of truck accidents in Orem.
Driver fatigue is a leading cause of truck accidents. Truck drivers often work long shifts to meet tight delivery deadlines. Even though federal regulations limit how many hours a driver can be on the road, some still push beyond safe limits.
When a driver is exhausted, their reaction time slows. They may drift between lanes or fail to notice changing traffic conditions. In extreme cases, a driver might fall asleep at the wheel. Fatigue makes it harder to make quick decisions, creating dangerous situations for everyone on the road.
Large trucks depend on many parts to run safely. These parts include brakes, tires, and steering systems. If a truck’s brakes wear out or the tires are not replaced on time, the results can be deadly.
Sometimes, equipment failures happen because drivers or companies skip important inspections or maintenance. Other times, the parts themselves might be defective from the start. In any case, a failed piece of equipment can cause a truck to lose control, leading to a serious crash.
Trucks have weight limits for a reason. When a truck is overloaded, it becomes harder to steer and stop. An overloaded trailer can also cause the vehicle to sway, especially in windy or hilly conditions.
Sometimes, the cargo itself is poorly balanced. Improperly secured loads may shift during travel, throwing the truck off balance. This makes rollovers more likely and can lead to debris falling onto the road. Loading errors often happen when companies rush to pack goods, ignoring safe practices.
While fatigue and mechanical problems are major concerns, distracted driving also contributes to truck accidents. Truck drivers may use phones, adjust GPS devices, or eat while driving. Because trucks are large and heavy, any brief lapse in attention can have big consequences.
Distractions reduce the driver’s ability to notice stopped traffic or other obstacles. This increases the risk of rear-end collisions or drifting out of the lane.
Some truck drivers speed or drive aggressively to meet strict schedules. A speeding truck is more difficult to control and takes longer to stop. If traffic ahead slows or stops suddenly, a speeding driver may not have enough distance to react.
Aggressive behaviors, like tailgating or frequent lane changes, can also create chaos on the road. With so much mass behind them, trucks need more time and space to maneuver safely.
Snow, ice, and rain are common in Utah. Large trucks need even more distance to stop on wet or icy roads. If drivers fail to adjust their speed or follow safe driving practices in bad weather, collisions become more likely. Poor road conditions, such as potholes or loose gravel, can also make it hard for a truck driver to keep control.
Trucking companies should provide proper training for new drivers, but that does not always happen. An inexperienced driver may not know how to handle a sharp turn, drive in snowy conditions, or maintain a safe following distance. Inadequate training leads to errors that can cause serious accidents.
Recognizing these common causes is the first step in understanding why truck accidents happen. When truck drivers and companies skip safety measures or act carelessly, the results can be tragic. If you have been injured in a truck crash in Orem, identifying the cause can help you and your attorney build a strong case.
Large trucks are subject to more rules than standard cars because of the potential harm they can cause in a collision. Federal trucking regulations come primarily from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, also known as the FMCSA.
Utah also has its own set of guidelines that trucking companies must follow. Understanding these regulations can be important for a truck accident case in Orem.
The FMCSA sets rules called Hours of Service to limit how long drivers can be on the road each day and each week. For example, they may restrict drivers to a maximum of 11 driving hours within a 14-hour window after being off duty for at least 10 hours.
This is meant to reduce fatigue. Drivers must keep log books or electronic records to show they are following these rules.
Federal law requires trucking companies to keep their vehicles in safe operating condition. This includes regular inspections of brakes, tires, steering, and other parts. Trucking companies must keep detailed maintenance records. If a company skips inspections or ignores known issues, they may be held liable for resulting accidents.
Utah imposes weight and size limits on commercial trucks. If a truck exceeds these limits without proper permits, it can become more difficult to handle. This raises the risk of crashes.
Overloading can also damage roads and bridges, adding to public safety hazards. Inspectors at weigh stations can enforce these rules, but some trucks still slip through with violations.
Trucks carrying hazardous materials face additional rules to protect public health and safety. They must display special placards and follow strict packing requirements.
Drivers also need extra training to handle these materials safely. Failure to follow these rules can lead to severe accidents, putting many people at risk.
Truck drivers must hold a valid Commercial Driver’s License, also known as a CDL. To get a CDL, drivers must pass exams and driving tests that show they can handle large vehicles.
They may also need specific endorsements for certain cargo, like tankers or hazardous materials. If a driver does not meet these standards or drives with a suspended CDL, that can be a factor in a crash claim.
Federal rules require trucking companies to test drivers for drugs and alcohol under certain conditions, such as after an accident or randomly.
A driver caught violating substance use rules could face serious legal consequences. If a driver was under the influence at the time of a crash, this can strongly indicate negligence.
Trucking regulations exist to keep roads safe. When a company or driver fails to follow these guidelines, the outcome can be catastrophic. For people injured in a truck accident, finding evidence of such violations can strengthen the argument that the driver or company was at fault. Lawyers experienced in these regulations can help victims gather the right documents and build a solid case.
In most car accidents, you generally look at the drivers involved to figure out who caused the crash. Truck accidents, however, often involve multiple parties. Figuring out who is liable can be complex because of the nature of the trucking industry. Below are some key factors in determining liability after a truck accident.
If the truck driver was texting, speeding, or driving under the influence, their actions likely contributed to the accident. Driver negligence is often a starting point for fault.
But the driver might not be the only one responsible. Sometimes, a driver might be simply following orders from the trucking company or driving under challenging conditions set by the employer.
The trucking company may bear liability in certain scenarios. Maybe the employer forced drivers to meet impossible schedules, leading to fatigue. Or the company might have skipped regular maintenance and inspections.
If the company hired drivers who did not meet the required qualifications or did not provide proper training, it can be held responsible for accidents that result from these oversights. Many injured individuals find that naming the company in their claim can lead to a better chance of recovering fair damages.
Sometimes, a truck accident occurs because of a damaged part, like brakes or tires. If the part was defective, the manufacturer could share liability.
A design flaw or production error might make the part prone to failure even under normal use. Proving a defective part caused the crash can be more complicated, requiring expert analysis and thorough investigation.
When a truck carries cargo, it is crucial that the load is balanced and secured. If another company or a third party was responsible for loading but did it incorrectly, they could be liable for accidents.
Improperly secured cargo might shift, affecting the truck’s center of gravity and leading to a rollover. Overloaded cargo can also strain the truck’s braking system and steering control.
It is possible that another car caused the initial chain reaction. For example, if a separate driver cut off the truck, forcing the truck to swerve and hit your car, that driver might share fault. Sorting this out can involve reviewing traffic camera footage, witness statements, or police reports to see how the events unfolded.
Utah follows a comparative negligence rule. If you share some responsibility for the accident, your damages can be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found 50 percent or more at fault, you usually cannot recover compensation. Because truck accidents involve many players, it is crucial to have a careful evaluation of each party’s actions.
Proving liability in a truck accident case is rarely simple. You might need to gather records from the trucking company, driver logbooks, truck maintenance documents, and more. A thorough investigation helps identify who contributed to the crash, ensuring that all responsible parties are held accountable.
If you are involved in a truck accident in Orem, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. Knowing what to do can help protect your health and your legal rights. Below are suggested steps to take as soon as possible after the crash.
Your first priority should be to check if anyone is seriously hurt. If you or others need immediate medical care, call 911. Even if injuries do not appear life-threatening, it is still wise to be examined by a healthcare professional. Some issues like whiplash or internal injuries may not show up right away.
Contact the local police so they can make an official accident report. Police can also direct traffic around the crash site, reducing the risk of more collisions. Their report often serves as key evidence when dealing with insurance companies or legal claims later on.
If you can do so safely, gather information about the truck driver, their employer, and the truck itself. Take photos of the scene, including any skid marks, vehicle damage, and road conditions. Ask for contact details from witnesses. These details might be crucial in reconstructing the accident and proving who was at fault.
Avoid discussing fault or apologizing to anyone at the scene. Emotions run high after a crash, and words might be taken out of context. Provide the police with accurate facts, but wait until you speak with a lawyer before giving detailed statements to insurance adjusters.
If you did not get immediate medical attention at the scene, visit a doctor soon. Even minor injuries can become more serious if untreated. A medical exam also creates official records of your condition, which can be important for insurance or legal proceedings.
Contact your insurance provider to report the accident. Keep the conversation brief. Share only the basic facts of where and when it happened. If they need more details, let them know you want to consult a lawyer first.
Truck accidents are different from car accidents for many reasons. They often involve multiple companies, large insurance policies, and complex regulations. Speaking to a lawyer can help you avoid common pitfalls. A lawyer can guide you in gathering evidence, negotiating with insurers, and taking any legal steps needed to seek fair compensation.
Following these steps can give you a stronger foundation if you decide to file a claim. Prompt action and careful documentation can help protect your rights and improve your chances of recovering the money you need to move forward.
A truck accident can turn your life upside down. You may have mounting medical bills, lost earnings, and lingering physical or emotional pain. In Utah, if someone else’s negligence caused the collision, you have the right to seek compensation. Understanding the types of damages available can help you know what to expect.
Many people injured in truck accidents face high medical bills, such as hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing treatments. These costs can pile up quickly, especially if your injuries are severe. You can claim these expenses as part of your damages. Future medical needs should also be included if your injuries require long-term care or follow-up procedures.
Serious injuries might prevent you from working for a while, causing lost wages. If your injury permanently affects your ability to work, you may also seek compensation for lost earning capacity. For example, if you can no longer perform your old job duties and must take a lower-paying position, the difference in income might be part of your claim.
Truck accidents often cause extensive damage to smaller vehicles. You can seek reimbursement for car repairs or even the cost of a replacement if the vehicle is totaled. This part of the claim also covers personal items damaged in the crash, like phones or laptops.
Physical pain, mental stress, and emotional distress are real consequences of a truck accident. While these are not always easy to quantify, you can pursue compensation for pain and suffering. This includes issues like chronic pain, depression, or anxiety related to the crash.
If your injuries affect your relationship with your spouse or family, you might seek damages for loss of consortium. This acknowledges that a severe injury can impact intimacy, companionship, and the usual activities shared with loved ones.
Tragically, some truck accidents result in death. If you lost a loved one in a truck accident, you may file a wrongful death claim. This type of claim can cover funeral expenses, loss of future income, and the emotional toll on surviving family members.
Though not awarded in every case, punitive damages can be granted if the at-fault party acted with extreme recklessness or malice. The purpose is to punish such behavior and discourage it from happening again.
These categories aim to help victims piece their lives back together. The total amount you can recover will depend on how severe your injuries are, how they impact your life, and who is found liable. An experienced truck accident attorney can help you understand which damages apply to your situation and how to calculate them accurately.
After a truck accident in Orem, one of the biggest challenges is dealing with the trucking company and its insurance provider.
Unlike typical car crashes, where you mainly talk to the other driver’s insurance, commercial trucking companies often have large policies and strong legal teams. These insurance companies aim to limit their payouts, so it can be tough to get fair compensation.
Soon after the accident, an insurance adjuster might contact you. They may sound friendly, but they are trained to protect the company’s interests.
The adjuster could ask for a recorded statement or push you to accept a quick settlement. This first offer is usually much lower than what you truly need. It is wise to speak with a lawyer before signing any papers or giving detailed statements.
Trucking companies have different insurance requirements than private car owners. Some policies can reach into the millions of dollars, covering serious crashes.
However, the more money is at stake, the more aggressively the insurer may defend itself. If your injuries are severe, expect the insurance company to fight hard to reduce or deny your claim.
Insurers sometimes try to shift blame onto you or other drivers. They might say you failed to keep a proper lookout or that another vehicle caused the crash.
In some cases, they point to road conditions or even the weather, suggesting the accident was unavoidable. That is why it is so important to have evidence and possibly an accident reconstruction expert to show what really happened.
When dealing with a trucking company, you need strong proof. This might include driver logbooks, maintenance records, and black box data from the truck.
These records can reveal if the driver was over the hours-of-service limit, or if the truck was in poor condition. A lawyer can help request and review these documents. Missing or altered records could suggest the company is hiding something.
Sometimes the trucking company will make a fair offer if you present strong evidence. But if they refuse to pay what is needed to cover your bills and losses, litigation might be the only way to force a fair resolution. Taking a case to court can be lengthy and requires a legal team that understands complex trucking regulations and procedures.
It is crucial to watch what you say to the insurance adjusters. Even casual remarks might be used against you. Keep records of all medical treatments, bills, and conversations about the case. This helps build a solid foundation for negotiation or trial. Working with a knowledgeable attorney can give you an advantage against trucking companies that try to intimidate or confuse you.
Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks understands how a truck accident can turn your life upside down. We bring that same caring approach to clients in Orem. Below is a step-by-step look at what we do to help truck accident victims.
First, we meet with you to hear your story and learn about your injuries, lost wages, and other challenges you face. This consultation helps us understand the main issues so we can form a plan that fits your unique situation. No two truck accidents are alike, and we believe a personal approach is essential for achieving a favorable outcome.
Next, we start digging into the facts. We gather police reports, talk to witnesses, and examine the truck driver’s background. We request maintenance records for the truck and any black box data that might reveal the driver’s speed or braking before the crash.
If necessary, we enlist accident reconstruction experts who can demonstrate how the collision occurred. This thorough approach helps us see whether the truck driver, the trucking company, or another party is at fault.
An essential part of a truck accident claim is showing how much your injuries have cost and how they have changed your life. We collect all your medical bills, from ambulance fees to physical therapy sessions.
We also speak with medical professionals who can detail the long-term impact of your injuries. If you have missed work, we gather records of lost wages. If your injuries affect your ability to earn a living, we consult vocational experts to estimate future income loss.
Pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life matter too. We take these factors into account to ask for compensation that truly reflects your situation.
Trucking companies and their insurance adjusters often try to settle claims quickly and cheaply. They may question the severity of your injuries or argue that you share the blame for the crash.
We handle all communication with them. Our goal is to present the strongest evidence possible, showing they will likely lose if the case goes to court. This pressure can lead to a better settlement offer. We always keep you informed, explaining the pros and cons of any settlement. You remain in control of whether to accept or keep fighting for a higher amount.
If the trucking company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we are ready to go to court. Our attorneys have experience presenting complex accident cases before judges and juries.
We organize the evidence, question witnesses, and use expert testimony to show the full extent of the trucking company’s negligence. We fight vigorously for a verdict that covers your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Throughout this process, we recognize that you are going through a difficult time. We make it a point to answer your calls, explain legal terms in simple language, and address any concerns you have.
This caring mindset has contributed to the notable results we have secured, including multi-million dollar settlements and favorable verdicts in serious injury and wrongful death cases. If you choose our firm, we will work diligently to help you rebuild your life and find a path forward.
Sometimes both. The truck driver might be at fault for driving carelessly, but the company could also share blame if it failed to train the driver or maintain the vehicle. A lawyer can help figure out which parties should be named in the claim.
Utah follows a modified comparative negligence system. You can still recover damages if you are less than 50 percent at fault, but your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.
Reach out to an Orem truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. Important evidence like driver logbooks or black box data can disappear if not requested promptly. Early action often leads to a stronger case.
Many cases settle without a trial, but some need a courtroom to reach a fair outcome. Having an attorney with trial experience can encourage higher settlement offers.
In Utah, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is usually four years, but exceptions may apply. It is wise to consult a lawyer soon after the accident.
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