Commercial vehicles on the road contribute to a significant number of accidents each year, often leading to severe injuries or fatalities. These vehicles, ranging from large trucks to delivery vans, can cause devastating harm when involved in collisions. If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a commercial vehicle in Louisiana, you may be entitled to compensation. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you navigate the complexities of these cases and hold the responsible parties accountable.

What Are Commercial Vehicles?

A wide range of vehicles are classified as commercial vehicles, including:

• Semi-trucks and 18-wheelers transporting goods
• Rideshare vehicles such as Uber and Lyft
• Amazon delivery vans and trucks
• Restaurant, grocery, or retail delivery vehicles
• Company cars and other vehicles used for business purposes

If you’ve been injured in an accident involving any of these vehicles, you may be able to pursue compensation, typically through the employer’s insurance policy. Determining liability and calculating damages can be complex, so it’s crucial to consult an experienced Louisiana commercial vehicle accident attorney.

The Impact of Commercial Vehicle Accidents

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reported thousands of fatal and injury-related crashes involving commercial vehicles annually. For instance, in 2020, there were 4,998 fatal crashes involving large trucks and buses, along with over 108,000 injury crashes.

The increasing presence of delivery vehicles like Amazon trucks on the road has amplified these risks. A 2015 investigation revealed over 60 Amazon delivery-related accidents in just one month, resulting in serious injuries and multiple fatalities.

Drowsy Driving: A Leading Cause of Commercial Vehicle Accidents

Many commercial drivers work long hours, often under intense pressure to meet deadlines. Fatigue can significantly impair a driver’s reaction time and decision-making abilities, leading to accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drowsy driving causes thousands of serious crashes annually.

Key contributors to drowsy driving among commercial drivers include:

• Extended hours on the road without breaks
• High mileage requirements
• Insufficient rest between shifts

Employers who overwork drivers or fail to enforce mandatory breaks may be held liable for accidents caused by fatigued driving.

Delivery Drivers and Rising Accident Rates

The growth of online shopping has led to an increase in delivery vehicles, such as Amazon trucks, on Louisiana roads. While these services offer convenience, they also create new risks.

For example, in one tragic case, an Amazon delivery driver in a box truck caused a fatal collision due to rushing to meet a deadline. Despite the clear negligence, Amazon sought to deny liability, emphasizing the need for legal representation in such cases.

Insurance Companies Aim to Minimize Payouts

When accidents involve commercial vehicles, victims often file claims with the company’s insurance provider. However, insurance companies are profit-driven and aim to reduce payouts. They may scrutinize claims to minimize or deny compensation.

Having an experienced attorney on your side ensures your claim is backed by strong evidence, increasing the likelihood of a fair and timely settlement.

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of commercial vehicle accidents can pursue compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, including:

• Medical Expenses: Immediate and long-term treatment costs
• Lost Wages: Income lost during recovery
• Loss of Earning Capacity: Reduced ability to work due to injuries
• Pain and Suffering: Emotional and physical distress
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Impact on daily activities and overall quality of life

Your attorney will work with medical and economic experts to calculate the full extent of your damages and build a compelling case for compensation.

Why You Need a Louisiana Commercial Vehicle Accident Attorney

Navigating the legal and insurance processes following a commercial vehicle accident can be overwhelming. An experienced Louisiana attorney will:

• Investigate the accident thoroughly
• Identify all liable parties, including drivers, employers, and manufacturers
• Gather and present evidence to strengthen your claim
• Negotiate with insurance companies to maximize your settlement
• Represent you in court, if necessary

Get Help with Your Commercial Vehicle Accident Claim

If you’ve been injured in an accident with a commercial vehicle, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our skilled Louisiana commercial vehicle accident attorneys are here to help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact Us Today

Call us at (504) 822-8350 or fill out our form to request your free case evaluation and consultation. Let us fight for your rights and help you move forward after a commercial vehicle accident.