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Trucking accidents in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, are unfortunately common, especially on major roadways throughout the area. These accidents frequently occur when truck drivers are in a hurry and disregard standard rules of the road. They can also happen when trucking companies take shortcuts, such as failing to maintain their vehicles properly. In most trucking accident scenarios, the driver and occupants on the receiving end suffer the most serious injuries.

If you sustained injuries in a Tuscaloosa trucking accident, you must have a qualified legal team advocating for your interests. The knowledgeable Tuscaloosa truck accident attorneys at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers are ready to fight for your rights and secure the monetary recovery you need.

For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled Tuscaloosa truck accident attorney, please call us at 866-455-3629 or contact us online to learn more.

Injured In A Truck Accident?

Why Choose Us?

Trucking accidents in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, can lead to painful injuries, high medical expenses, and inconvenience. Given everything on the line, you want experienced legal counsel in your corner representing you every step of the way.

At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we have a strong track record of success in favorably settling and litigating truck accident cases. In fact, we have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of our injured clients over the years.

You can review our most recent client testimonials on our site. Let us seek the fair compensation and justice you deserve for your truck accident injuries.

How Much Money Will I Receive for My Tuscaloosa Truck Accident Case?

If you’ve been in a trucking accident in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, the compensation you can receive depends on several factors. These include the severity of your injuries, the effects on your daily life, and the extent of the truck driver’s or trucking company’s negligence.

The main types of damages you can claim include economic, non-economic, and punitive damages.

Economic Damages

Economic damages cover the financial costs related to your accident. These can include:

Medical Expenses – This covers all past and future medical bills related to the accident, such as hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and physical therapy.
Lost Earnings – If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim compensation for your lost income. This also includes future lost earnings if you’re unable to return to work or have to take a lower-paying job due to your injuries.
Property Damage – This includes the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
Out-of-Pocket Losses – These are additional costs you may incur due to the accident, such as transportation to medical appointments or hiring help for household chores you can no longer perform.

Non-economic Damages

Non-economic damages are more subjective and compensate you for the non-financial effects of the trucking accident. These losses can include:

Pain and Suffering – This covers the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve endured because of the accident.
Emotional Distress – Beyond the physical pain you experience, this can include anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues that arise due to the trucking accident.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life – If your injuries prevent you from enjoying activities and hobbies you once loved, you can seek compensation for this loss.
Loss of Consortium – This refers to the negative effect on your relationship with your spouse due to the truck accident injuries.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are available in cases where the truck driver or trucking company’s behavior was especially reckless or malicious. These damages do not compensate for a specific loss but to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future. In Alabama, punitive damages are capped, but they can still significantly increase your overall compensation if awarded.

Most Common Locations for Truck Accidents in Tuscaloosa

In Tuscaloosa, Alabama, commercial trucking accidents often occur in specific locations due to negligence by truck drivers and trucking companies. Here are the most common areas:

Interstate 20/59 – This major interstate runs through Tuscaloosa and sees a lot of commercial truck traffic. Accidents frequently happen here due to high speeds and heavy traffic. Truck driver fatigue, distracted driving, and failure to maintain safe following distances contribute to these crashes.
U.S. Highway 82 – This busy highway connects different parts of Tuscaloosa and is a common route for commercial trucks. Accidents can occur due to improper lane changes, speeding, and poor truck maintenance.
Downtown Tuscaloosa – The city’s central area is also prone to commercial truck accidents. Tight turns, congested streets, and heavy pedestrian traffic make it difficult for drivers of large trucks to navigate safely. Negligence in observing traffic signals and failing to yield the right-of-way are common issues.
Major Intersections – Intersections like those at McFarland Boulevard and Skyland Boulevard are also hotspots for accidents. Truck drivers often fail to stop in time or misjudge the speed of oncoming traffic, leading to collisions. Running red lights and making illegal turns are frequent causes of accidents.
Bryant Drive and Jack Warner Parkway – These areas are near industrial zones with warehouses and distribution centers. Trucks entering and exiting these facilities can cause accidents if drivers are not careful. Poorly maintained trucks and inexperienced drivers are common issues here.
County Roads and State Routes – Commercial trucks often travel on narrow, winding roads in the more rural parts of Tuscaloosa County. Accidents can happen due to excessive speed, lack of proper signage, and drivers unfamiliar with the area. Trucking companies sometimes fail to provide adequate training for these routes.
Road Work Areas – Ongoing construction on roads and highways can lead to accidents. Truck drivers may fail to slow down or follow detour signs properly. Negligence in adapting to changing road conditions is a significant factor.

Categories of Truck Accidents in Tuscaloosa

Trucking accidents in Tuscaloosa can happen in many ways when truck drivers or trucking companies act negligently. Some common trucking accidents that result from such negligence include:

Rear-End Collisions – Rear-end collisions occur when a truck crashes into the back of another vehicle. This often happens because the truck driver is following too closely, distracted, or unable to stop in time due to excessive speed or brake failure. These accidents can cause severe injuries due to the size and weight of the truck.
Jackknife Accidents – A truck jackknife accident happens when the trailer of a truck swings out to the side, forming a 90-degree angle with the cab. This can occur if the driver brakes suddenly or improperly, especially on slippery roads. Jackknife accidents can block multiple lanes of traffic and cause multi-vehicle pile-ups.
Rollover Accidents – Rollover accidents occur when a truck tips over onto its side or roof. These accidents often happen because of speeding, taking curves too quickly, or improper loading that makes the truck unstable. Rollovers can be deadly, both for the truck driver and other motorists.
Underride Accidents – An underride accident occurs when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the rear or side of a truck. This often happens if the truck stops suddenly or lacks proper underride guards. These accidents are extremely dangerous and can result in severe injuries or fatalities for the occupants of the smaller vehicle.
T-Bone Collisions – T-bone collisions happen when the front of a truck crashes into the side of another vehicle, forming a “T” shape. These accidents usually occur at intersections when a truck driver runs a red light or stop sign. The resulting collision can be devastating, especially for the side-impacted vehicle.
Wide Turn Accidents – Wide turn accidents happen when a truck driver makes a wide right turn and collides with a vehicle in the adjacent lane. This can occur if the truck driver fails to check blind spots or signal properly. These accidents are common in urban areas with narrow streets.
Lost Load Accidents – Lost load accidents occur when cargo falls off a truck due to improper loading or securing. This can create hazardous road conditions and cause collisions as other drivers try to avoid the debris.
Head-On Collisions – Head-on collisions happen when a truck crosses into oncoming traffic, often due to driver fatigue, distraction, or substance abuse. These accidents are usually severe and can result in catastrophic injuries or death.

Common Injuries in Tuscaloosa Truck Accidents

In Tuscaloosa, Alabama, trucking accidents resulting from truck driver or trucking company negligence can lead to many serious injuries. These injuries often have long-lasting effects on the victims’ lives, affecting their physical health, mental well-being, and financial stability. Here are some common injuries resulting from such accidents:

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), including migraines, concussions, comas, and diffuse axonal injuries
Spinal cord injuries which may lead to full or partial paralysis
Fractures and broken bones, especially in the victim’s arms, legs, or ribs
Internal injuries, including internal bleeding or organ damage
Whiplash and other types of soft tissue injuries
Opens cuts, bruises, and lacerations, which may require stitches and lead to visible scarring

Fighting the Insurance Company in a Tuscaloosa Truck Accident Case

Fighting the insurance company in a Tuscaloosa trucking accident case can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can secure the compensation you deserve. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, here’s how we can support you throughout this process:

Obtaining Relevant Evidence – We begin by collecting all relevant evidence from the accident. This includes police reports, medical records, witness statements, and photos of the scene. Solid evidence is crucial to proving fault and showing the full extent of your injuries.
Evaluating Your Claim – We assess the full effect of the accident on your life. This includes calculating economic damages like medical bills and lost earnings and non-economic damages like pain and suffering. We use this information to determine a fair settlement amount.
Dealing with Insurance Adjusters – Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. We handle all communications with insurance adjusters to ensure they don’t take advantage of you. We aim to negotiate a fair settlement covering all of your damages.
Building a Strong Case – We prepare a strong case by presenting detailed evidence and expert testimony. This may involve consulting accident reconstruction experts or medical professionals to support your claim. A well-prepared case can strengthen your position during negotiations.
Filing a Lawsuit – If the insurance company’s offer is inadequate, we’re prepared to take legal action. Filing a lawsuit involves presenting your case in court and arguing on your behalf. We handle all of the legal procedures and work towards achieving the best possible outcome.
Advocating for Your Rights – Throughout the process, we advocate for your rights and ensure that you’re treated fairly. Our goal is to fight for the compensation you’re entitled to recover, whether through settlement negotiations or in court.

We will use our legal knowledge and skills to manage every aspect of your case, from evidence collection to legal representation, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve after a trucking accident.

Steps to Take after a Tuscaloosa Truck Collision

After a trucking accident in Tuscaloosa, taking the right steps can make a big difference in your case. Here’s what you should do:

Gather Documentation – Start by collecting important documents related to the accident. This includes the police report, medical records, and photos of the scene or vehicle damage. Get witnesses' contact information and track any expenses related to your injuries and recovery.
Finish Your Medical Treatment – It’s crucial to complete all recommended medical treatments. Follow your doctor’s advice and attend all appointments. This not only ensures your health but also provides clear evidence of the extent of your injuries, which is important for your case.
Contact a Tuscaloosa Truck Accident Lawyer – At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we will handle the legal details and advocate for your rights so you can focus on fully recovering from your injuries.