Accidents involving commercial trucks can result in catastrophic injuries and devastating consequences, especially when inexperienced drivers are behind the wheel. Federal regulations are in place to ensure that trucking companies and drivers operate safely, adhering to standards on vehicle maintenance, weight limits, and hours of service. However, these regulations are not always followed, mainly when the company’s or driver’s bottom line is at stake.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident with a semi-truck, big rig, tractor-trailer, delivery truck, or any other large commercial vehicle operated by an inexperienced driver, contact Pringle & Herigstad, P.C., as soon as possible. You may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit against the truck driver, the trucking company, or another responsible party. Our North Dakota truck accident attorneys are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. With offices conveniently located in Minot and Grand Forks, we are ready to stand by your side and advocate for your rights.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents Involving Inexperienced Drivers
Truck accidents involving inexperienced drivers can result from various factors, many of which stem from a lack of proper training or adherence to safety regulations. Our North Dakota truck accident attorneys conduct thorough investigations to determine the cause of each accident and identify all liable parties. This often includes interviewing witnesses, reconstructing the accident scene, examining logbooks and maintenance records, and reviewing police reports.
Some common causes of truck accidents involving inexperienced drivers include:
- Improperly loaded or overloaded trucks
- Driver fatigue due to failure to adhere to hours-of-service regulations
- Inadequate training or lack of experience in handling large vehicles
- Distracted driving, including the use of mobile devices while driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Negligent maintenance and repair practices
- Speeding or reckless driving behavior
- Poor understanding of blind spots and safe turning techniques
Regardless of the cause, victims of truck accidents should not have to bear the burden of another party’s negligence. At Pringle & Herigstad, P.C., our attorneys are committed to holding responsible parties accountable and pursuing maximum client compensation.
Determining Liability in Inexperienced Driver Truck Accidents
While it may seem clear that the inexperienced driver is at fault, liability in truck accidents often involves multiple parties. Depending on the specifics of the accident, various entities may be held responsible, including:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company, especially if they failed to provide adequate training or violated hiring practices
- The company that owns or leases the truck
- The cargo loader, if improper loading contributed to the accident
- The manufacturer of a defective truck or truck part
- The maintenance company responsible for the truck’s upkeep
Given the complexity of these cases, having a skilled attorney is crucial. Our North Dakota truck accident lawyers understand the intricacies of trucking regulations and the legal challenges involved. We will work diligently to identify all responsible parties and build a strong case for your compensation.
Protecting Your Rights After a Truck Accident
North Dakota’s no-fault insurance system allows accident victims to file claims with their own auto insurance providers through personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, regardless of fault. However, PIP coverage has limitations and does not compensate for non-economic damages like pain and suffering. In many truck accidents, the injuries are severe, often leading to significant medical expenses and long-term disabilities that exceed PIP limits.
To step outside the no-fault system and file a third-party claim, you must prove that your injuries resulted in “serious and permanent disfigurement or disability” for more than 60 days or that your medical costs exceeded $2,500. These conditions are typically met in severe truck accidents.
Navigating the legal process can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with powerful trucking companies and their insurance providers. Our experienced attorneys at Pringle & Herigstad, P.C. are ready to advocate for your rights and pursue the fair compensation you need to recover.
How Long Do You Have to File a Truck Accident Claim?
North Dakota provides a relatively generous statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims. You have six years to file a lawsuit after a truck accident and two years if the accident resulted in the wrongful death of a loved one. Despite this timeframe, it’s essential to act quickly. Evidence can be lost, memories fade, and the trucking company will likely begin building a defense immediately.
Do not engage with the trucking company or their insurance representatives without legal counsel. Instead, reach out to Pringle & Herigstad, P.C., right away. We are prepared to protect your rights and handle all communications on your behalf.
Contact Our North Dakota Truck Accident Attorneys for a Free Consultation
For over 100 years, Pringle & Herigstad, P.C. has been dedicated to representing injured clients in Minot and Grand Forks, North Dakota. We understand the stress and uncertainty of filing a lawsuit and strive to make the process seamless. We prioritize providing you with high-quality legal care, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities. Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with our experienced truck accident attorneys. We are here to fight for you.
Pringle & Herigstad, P.C. is committed to supporting individuals in North Dakota, including Grand Forks, Minot, Fargo, Bismarck, Williston, Rugby, Devils Lake, Jamestown, and the surrounding areas. Our dedicated team is here to provide legal assistance and guidance to those facing the complex challenges that arise from these incidents.
