Semi-trucks and other large commercial vehicles are vital to Utah’s economy, transporting goods across the state on highways like I-15 and I-80. But when a truck weighing up to 80,000 pounds collides with a passenger car, the results are often devastating. Victims of truck accidents face severe injuries, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about how to move forward.
At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we help crash victims protect their rights and pursue maximum compensation after a collision with a semi-truck. Here’s what you need to know if you’ve been involved in a Utah truck accident and how a skilled attorney can guide you through the process.
Why Truck Accidents Are So Dangerous
Truck accidents are far more complex and catastrophic than standard car crashes. The size and weight of an 18-wheeler mean that even a low-speed impact can cause life-altering injuries. Common causes of truck accidents include:
🚛 Driver fatigue – Long hours behind the wheel lead to slower reaction times and even falling asleep while driving.
🚛 Overloaded or unsecured cargo – Shifting loads can cause rollovers or jackknife crashes.
🚛 Poor vehicle maintenance – Brake failures, worn tires, and other mechanical issues often contribute to truck wrecks.
🚛 Distracted or impaired driving – Texting, drug use, or alcohol consumption behind the wheel of a semi is deadly.
These accidents often involve multiple vehicles and result in severe injuries such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord damage, amputations, and fatalities.
What to Do Immediately After a Truck Accident
The moments after a collision are critical for your health and future claim:
- Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel “okay,” get checked out immediately. Truck accidents often cause internal injuries that may not show symptoms right away. - Call 911
A police report creates an official record of the accident, which is essential for any future claim. - Document the Scene
If it’s safe to do so, take photos of:
- Vehicle damage
- Road conditions
- Skid marks
- Truck license plate and company logo
- Get Witness Information
Obtain names and contact details from anyone who saw the accident. - Avoid Speaking to Insurers
The trucking company’s insurance adjuster may call you quickly, looking for a statement. Don’t speak to them until you’ve consulted a truck accident lawyer.
Why Truck Accident Claims Are Different
Trucking accidents aren’t just bigger in scale, they’re also more complicated legally. Here’s why:
✅ Multiple Parties May Be Liable
Unlike a standard car crash, liability in a truck accident may involve:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company (employer)
- Cargo loaders
- Truck or parts manufacturers
- Maintenance contractors
✅ Federal and State Regulations Apply
Trucking companies must follow strict safety rules set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)and Utah state law. Violations of these rules often play a key role in proving negligence.
✅ Powerful Insurance Companies
Commercial trucking insurers are notorious for aggressively defending claims. Without legal representation, victims are often pressured into accepting lowball settlements.
How a Utah Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help
At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we level the playing field for victims by:
✔ Investigating Thoroughly
We gather evidence like black box data, driver’s logbooks, GPS records, and maintenance logs to uncover violations and prove fault.
✔ Identifying All Liable Parties
By determining every source of liability, we maximize your chances of full compensation.
✔ Calculating the True Value of Your Case
Truck accident injuries often require long-term care. We account for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and future rehabilitation costs.
✔ Negotiating with Insurers
Our attorneys know the tactics trucking insurers use and how to counter them effectively.
✔ Taking the Case to Trial (if needed)
We’re prepared to fight for you in court if the insurance company refuses to settle fairly.
Compensation Available After a Truck Accident
If you’ve been injured in a semi-truck collision, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses – Hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, medications
- Lost wages – Time missed from work during recovery
- Reduced earning capacity – If your injuries prevent you from returning to your prior job
- Pain and suffering – Physical and emotional trauma
- Property damage – Repair or replacement of your vehicle
- Wrongful death damages – For families who have lost a loved one in a fatal truck crash
What If I Was Partially at Fault?
Utah follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation if you were less than 50% at fault, but your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you were found 20% responsible, your damages would be reduced by 20%.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
In Utah, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is 4 years from the date of the accident. For wrongful death claims, it’s 2 years.
However, truck accident cases require immediate action to preserve evidence. Trucking companies are only required to keep certain records for a limited time, sometimes just 6 months. Contacting an attorney quickly gives you the best chance of success.
Why Choose Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks?
Our law firm has helped Utah families recover millions in compensation after devastating accidents. When you work with us, you get:
✔ Decades of experience handling complex truck crash claims
✔ Personalized attention from a compassionate legal team
✔ No fees unless we win. You don’t pay us unless we recover money for you
Talk to a Utah Truck Accident Attorney Today
A semi-truck accident can turn your life upside down in seconds. Don’t let the trucking company or their insurer take advantage of you during this vulnerable time.
📞 Call Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks at 801‑500‑4000 today for a free consultation.
Let us fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing.
