Arizona Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyers

What is a Commercial Vehicle?

A commercial vehicle in Arizona refers to any motor vehicle primarily utilized for business activities. This category includes:

• Large trucks and 18-wheelers commonly found on Arizona highways
• Buses, such as Valley Metro buses and school buses
• Delivery vans and trucks that service local businesses
• Taxis and rideshare vehicles (like Uber and Lyft)
• Construction vehicles used at job sites
• Company cars employed by businesses
• Any vehicle used for transporting goods or passengers for profit

If you’ve been involved in an accident with a commercial vehicle in Arizona, it’s crucial to understand the unique legal and insurance aspects. It may be beneficial to consult with a commercial vehicle accident attorney based in Arizona for assistance in navigating these complex situations.

Steps to Take and What to Expect After a Commercial Vehicle Crash

If you find yourself in a commercial vehicle accident in Arizona, here’s a guide on what to do and what to expect:

1. Immediate Actions:

• Prioritize safety – if possible, move to a secure location
• Call 911 to inform police about the accident and request medical help
• Stay at the scene until authorities arrive

2. Document the Accident:

• Capture photos of vehicle damage, injuries, and the accident scene
• Collect contact details from witnesses and others involved
• Record the commercial vehicle’s company name and any identifying numbers

3. Seek Medical Attention:

• Allow Arizona paramedics to assess your condition at the scene
• Visit a hospital or clinic for a comprehensive check-up, even if injuries appear minor
• Adhere to all treatment recommendations from healthcare professionals

4. Report the Accident:

• File a police report with the responding officers
• Inform your insurance company about the incident
• Be prepared for communication from the commercial vehicle’s insurance provider

5. Preserve Evidence:

• Keep all medical records and bills from healthcare facilities
• Retain any receipts for expenses related to the accident
• Avoid repairing your vehicle until it has been properly documented and inspected

6. Legal Considerations:

• Think about consulting an Arizona commercial vehicle accident attorney
• Be careful about making statements or signing documents without legal counsel
• Recognize that Arizona commercial vehicle cases often involve complicated liability issues

7. Ongoing Processes:

• Anticipate an investigation by both insurance companies and possibly law enforcement
• You may need to attend follow-up medical appointments
• Be ready for negotiations with insurance adjusters who are knowledgeable about Arizona regulations

8. Potential Outcomes:

• You might receive a settlement offer from the insurance company
• If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to court.
• Recovery time and financial implications can differ based on the severity of the accident

Keep in mind that every accident in Arizona is unique. For tailored guidance through this process, consider seeking professional advice.

Common Injuries in Commercial Vehicle Accidents

Accidents involving commercial vehicles often result in severe injuries due to their large size and weight. Victims may face overwhelming medical expenses, extended time off work, and a challenging recovery journey. Here are some of the most common injuries our Arizona commercial vehicle accident attorneys deal with:

• Traumatic brain injuries, such as concussions
• Fractured bones, especially in the legs from the impact or arms, when bracing for impact
• Spinal cord injuries
• Paralysis injuries
• Internal injuries, particularly organ damage
• Lacerations and abrasions
• Major scarring, often requiring surgical revision by plastic surgeons
• Joint injuries
• Amputation
• Wrongful death

If you or someone you love has been injured in a collision involving a commercial vehicle, contact our commercial vehicle accident lawyers for a FREE CONSULTATION. We’re here to help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Commercial Vehicle Accidents in Arizona

Accidents generally fall into three main categories: driver error, mechanical failure, or environmental factors. A key responsibility of an Arizona commercial vehicle accident lawyer is to establish liability.

Driver Causes for Collisions

Driver errors are the most frequent causes of accidents. While many factors overlap with personal vehicle incidents, commercial drivers encounter specific risks:

• Distracted driving: This includes using devices for navigation, deliveries, and payments. For instance, truckers might check their GPS, while rideshare drivers could be messaging customers.
• Fatigue: Despite state regulations, some drivers may work beyond safe hours. Truckers can legally drive for up to 15 hours before taking a break, and logbook falsification is a common issue.
• Speeding: Tight schedules and heavy traffic often push drivers to exceed speed limits.
• Lane Merge Errors: Large blind spots in specialized vehicles can result in hazardous merging situations.
• Cargo Load Issues: Improperly loaded cargo can block the driver’s view, cause items to shift, or negatively impact vehicle handling.

These factors can greatly affect road safety in Arizona. If you’ve been involved in a commercial vehicle accident, it’s advisable to consult an attorney to understand your rights and options.

Mechanical Causes of Collisions

In addition to driver errors, other parties may share liability for an accident. Vehicle manufacturers are responsible for producing and selling safe vehicles and equipment. Owners and others accountable for the vehicle’s commercial use must ensure it is well-maintained.

• Mechanical: Issues such as brake failure, tire blowouts, airbag malfunctions, or seat belt failures.
• Manufacturer: Neglecting to issue recalls or failing to perform adequate safety testing.
• Owner / Operator: Not conducting routine maintenance or failing to pass necessary inspections.

It’s crucial to share the details of your accident with your personal injury attorney so they can help identify whether any of these factors contributed to your incident.

Environmental Causes for Collisions

These factors can be either natural or man-made, but they all influence the environment where the accident took place.

• Construction: We anticipate that our tax dollars will be used for the upkeep of our infrastructure. If poor maintenance or faulty construction leads to hazardous road conditions that contribute to an accident, cities and states may be held liable.
• Weather: Although a thunderstorm itself cannot be held accountable for an accident, drivers can be deemed responsible for how they respond to hazardous conditions.

How Commercial Vehicle Accidents Differ from Typical Car Accidents

Commercial vehicle accidents are distinct from regular car accidents due to the higher standards applied to professional drivers and commercial businesses. These differences include stricter regulations, more extensive insurance requirements, and unique accident scenarios.

1. Stricter Regulations

Owners and operators of commercial vehicles must adhere to more stringent rules, and violations often result in harsher penalties:

• Licensing Requirements: In Arizona, professional drivers typically need a specialized Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to operate.
• Higher Standards: Professional drivers are held to stricter accountability, and penalties for traffic violations are more severe compared to regular drivers.

2. Higher Insurance Coverage

Companies operating commercial vehicles are required to carry significantly higher insurance policies:

• Minimum Coverage: At least $750,000 in liability insurance is mandated, with higher amounts for transporting hazardous or high-value cargo.
• Enhanced Protections: These policies aim to address the greater risks and potential damages associated with commercial vehicles.

3. Unique Collision Types

The size, weight, and design of commercial vehicles often lead to specific and severe types of accidents:

• Jackknife Incidents: Trailers forming sharp angles with towing vehicles are a common issue with large trucks.
• Rollovers: Tall, top-heavy vehicles are more prone to rolling over during sharp turns or sudden stops.
• Rideshare Risks: Passengers in taxis or rideshare vehicles often fail to wear seat belts, and loose items can become dangerous projectiles during a crash.

4. More Severe Injuries

Due to the nature of these collisions, injuries from commercial vehicle accidents can be particularly catastrophic, involving greater force and more complex recovery scenarios.

We Charge No Upfront Fees Until We Win

Call Our Arizona Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyers

You don’t have to navigate these challenges on your own. Commercial vehicle accidents present distinct difficulties and can lead to severe consequences. Survivors often face serious injuries and require substantial support. While some injuries may heal over time, others can have lasting effects. In addition to the physical harm caused by a commercial vehicle accident, there are also considerable financial, mental, and emotional repercussions.

Our Arizona commercial vehicle accident lawyers have a proven track record of successfully advocating for our clients against insurance companies. We are dedicated to providing exceptional service, ensuring that each client achieves the best possible recovery and receives the maximum compensation they deserve. If you’ve been involved in a commercial vehicle accident, reach out to Thompson Law’s accident lawyers today!

What Our Clients Say About Us

4.9

Based on 1731 reviews

FAQs About Arizona Commercial Vehicle Accidents

What should I do if the commercial driver’s insurance company contacts me?

If the insurance company representing the commercial driver or business reaches out, avoid providing detailed statements or signing any documents before consulting an attorney. Insurance companies often aim to limit their payouts, so seeking legal advice helps protect your rights.

Can I file a claim if the commercial vehicle was owned by a government agency?

Yes, you can file a claim against government-owned vehicles, such as city buses or state trucks. However, claims involving government entities in Arizona are subject to specific rules and shorter deadlines under the Arizona Tort Claims Act. Contact an attorney promptly to ensure compliance with these requirements.

What happens if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. An attorney can help evaluate your case and clarify how this rule impacts your claim.

How is compensation calculated for injuries in commercial vehicle accidents?

Compensation is determined based on medical expenses, lost income, property damage, pain and suffering, and any long-term impacts of the injuries. For severe or catastrophic injuries, payouts are generally higher. An attorney can assess your case to estimate the compensation you may be entitled to.

Can I pursue a claim if the commercial vehicle was transporting hazardous materials?

Yes, accidents involving vehicles carrying hazardous materials often result in severe injuries and damages. Liability may extend to the driver, the transport company, or even the manufacturer of the hazardous materials. These cases are complex, so working with an experienced attorney is essential to identify all responsible parties and seek full compensation.