Trucking accidents in Phoenix are unfortunately common when truck drivers and trucking companies behave negligently. For example, a truck driver may violate one or more traffic laws, while trucking companies may violate motor carrier regulations or fail to maintain their trucks.
If you sustained injuries in a recent Phoenix truck collision, the knowledgeable legal team at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers is ready to help. We will protect your rights and advocate for your interests in pursuit of the settlement or litigation compensation you deserve.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Phoenix truck accident attorney, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.
Why Choose Us?
When it comes to choosing a Phoenix truck accident lawyer for representation, you want an experienced and compassionate legal team on your side every step of the way.
At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, our attorneys have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of injured crash victims – including victims of commercial truck collisions. We will aggressively fight for your rights and, if necessary, litigate your case to a resolution in the state court system.
You can view our most recent client testimonials by clicking here. Let us help you recover the financial compensation you deserve for your accident-related losses today.
How Much Is a Phoenix Truck Accident Case Worth?
The value of a truck collision case in Phoenix, Arizona, can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of property damage, and the overall effect of the accident on your life. On average, truck crash cases can be worth anywhere from thousands to millions of dollars, depending on the circumstances.
Economic damages are a key part of the compensation you can recover. These damages are meant to cover any financial losses directly related to the accident. They can include:
- Medical Expenses – This compensation includes all costs for treatment, such as hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and any future medical care you may need.
- Lost income – If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim compensation for the income you have lost. If your ability to work is permanently affected, you may also recover compensation for future lost earnings.
- Property Damage – If your vehicle or other personal property was damaged in the collision, you can recover the cost of repairs or replacement.
Non-economic damages are also recoverable. They are more subjective and cover the repercussions the accident has had on your quality of life. Examples include:
- Pain and Suffering – This type of damage compensates you for the physical pain and emotional distress the crash caused.
- Emotional Distress – Serious accidents can lead to emotional trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Compensation is available for these effects as well.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life – If the collision has limited your ability to enjoy activities and hobbies you once loved, you can seek compensation for this loss.
In some cases, you may also be eligible for punitive damages. These damages are awarded when the truck driver or trucking company’s actions were especially reckless or malicious. Punitive damages intend to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.
The knowledgeable Phoenix truck accident attorneys at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers can explain the potential value of your case and the compensation you can recover.
Where Do Trucking Accidents Most Often Occur in Phoenix
Trucking collisions in Phoenix, Arizona, frequently occur in certain areas where traffic conditions, road design, and heavy vehicle use combine to create higher risks. These areas are typically major highways, intersections, and heavily traveled roads.
- One of the most common locations for trucking accidents in Phoenix is Interstate 10 (I-10). I-10 is a major cross-country highway that runs through Phoenix, connecting it to other major cities in the state and across the nation. The heavy flow of commercial trucks on this route, combined with frequent traffic congestion, increases the likelihood of crashes. The stretch of I-10 that runs through downtown Phoenix, especially near the “Stack” interchange where I-10 meets I-17, is particularly notorious for collisions due to the complex interchange design and heavy traffic volumes.
- Another significant area for truck crashes is Interstate 17 (I-17), which connects Phoenix to Flagstaff and other northern parts of Arizona. I-17 is known for its steep grades and curves as it leaves the Valley, especially as you head north out of the city. These challenging driving conditions can lead to truck rollovers and other serious accidents, particularly for drivers unfamiliar with the terrain or those driving in poor weather conditions.
- State Route 202 (Loop 202), especially the South Mountain Freeway segment, is another frequent site of trucking collisions. This loop serves as a major bypass for truckers looking to avoid central Phoenix traffic. While Loop 202 helps alleviate congestion on I-10 and I-17, it also experiences heavy truck traffic, which can lead to accidents, particularly during peak traffic hours or when construction is underway.
- In addition, Grand Avenue (U.S. Route 60) is a known hotspot for trucking crashes. This major thoroughfare cuts diagonally across Phoenix, and commercial trucks use it heavily. The numerous intersections and traffic lights along Grand Avenue, coupled with high-speed limits, create conditions ripe for collisions between trucks and smaller vehicles.
Types of Phoenix Truck Accidents
Trucking accidents in Phoenix, Arizona, often occur due to negligence by truck drivers or trucking companies. These collisions can have severe consequences, given the size and weight of commercial trucks. Here are some of the most common categories of trucking accidents resulting from negligence:
- Rear-End Collisions – These crashes happen when a truck driver fails to stop in time and crashes into the vehicle in front of them. This failure to stop often occurs because truck drivers are distracted, fatigued, or following too closely. Given the large size of trucks, these collisions can cause significant damage to smaller vehicles and result in serious injuries.
- Fatigue-Related Accidents – Truck drivers are often under pressure to meet tight deadlines, leading them to drive long hours without sufficient rest. Driving extended hours can result in fatigue, which severely impairs a driver’s ability to focus and react to changing road conditions. If a trucking company encourages or allows drivers to violate hours-of-service regulations, they can be responsible for crashes that driver fatigue caused.
- Rollover Accidents – Rollovers are particularly dangerous and often result when the driver takes a turn too quickly, overcorrects, or drives with an unbalanced load. Trucking companies may be at fault if they fail to properly secure cargo or ensure that their drivers are adequately trained in handling these large vehicles.
- Jackknife Accidents – A jackknife collision occurs when the trailer of a truck swings out to the side, forming a ninety-degree angle with the cab. Jackknife collisions usually happen when a driver brakes too suddenly or loses control of the vehicle on slippery roads. In many cases, this type of crash results from improper training or speeding, both of which are forms of negligence.
- Underride Accidents – These accidents occur when a smaller vehicle slides under the rear or side of a truck’s trailer, which can happen if a truck driver suddenly stops or turns without giving adequate warning. Lack of proper reflective tape or under-ride guards, which are required by federal regulations, can also be a factor. Failure to maintain these safety features is a form of company negligence.
Common Injuries in a Phoenix Trucking Accident
In a Phoenix truck collision, victims often endure a range of physical and mental injuries due to the immense force involved when large commercial vehicles collide with smaller cars. These injuries can vary in severity, often leading to long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and psychological support.
Physical Injuries
- Whiplash – One of the most common injuries in truck accidents, whiplash occurs when the neck violently jerks back and forth, straining the muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Whiplash can cause chronic pain and mobility issues if not treated properly.
- Broken Bones – The sheer force of a truck impact can easily break bones in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. Depending on the severity, broken bones may require surgical intervention, including metal rods or plates, followed by physical therapy to restore function and strength.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – Spinal cord injuries are among the most serious and life-altering outcomes of a truck collision. These injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis, depending on the location and extent of the damage. Spinal cord injuries often necessitate lifelong medical care and adaptive equipment.
Mental Injuries
- PTSD – PTSD is a common mental health issue following a severe truck accident. Victims may experience flashbacks, nightmares, and intense anxiety related to the accident, making it difficult to return to normal activities or even drive again.
- Depression – The aftermath of a truck accident can be emotionally overwhelming. Victims may struggle with depression due to the trauma of the event, the pain of their injuries, or the drastic changes to their lifestyle. Depression can be as debilitating as physical injuries, often requiring therapy and medication.
Fighting the Insurance Company After a Phoenix Trucking Accident
Following a Phoenix trucking accident, dealing with the insurance company can be overwhelming, especially when you are trying to recover from your injuries. Insurance companies often prioritize their profits over providing fair compensation, and they may use various tactics to minimize or deny your claim. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, our goal is to fight the insurance company on your behalf, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve. Here is how we will handle your case:
- Thorough Investigation – The first step in building a strong case is conducting a thorough investigation of the accident. We gather all the necessary evidence, including police reports, witness statements, photographs, and any available video footage. We may also work with accident reconstruction experts to determine exactly how the crash happened and who was at fault. This comprehensive approach helps us build a solid foundation for your claim.
- Accurate Valuation of Your Claim – Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for far less than they are worth. We ensure that we account for all your damages, including medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering. By accurately valuing your claim, we can fight for the full amount of compensation to which you are entitled.
- Negotiation – Armed with strong evidence and a clear understanding of your claim’s value, we enter into negotiations with the insurance company. Our experience in handling trucking accident cases gives us the upper hand in these negotiations. We know the tactics insurance companies use, and we counter them effectively to protect your rights.
- Litigation If Necessary – If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to take your case to court. We will present a compelling case on your behalf, using all the evidence we have gathered to fight for the compensation you deserve.
- Ongoing Support – Throughout this process, we keep you informed and involved. We understand that this is a challenging time for you, and we are here to answer your questions, provide guidance, and ensure that your voice is heard.
By taking these steps, we fight tirelessly to ensure that the insurance company treats you fairly and that you receive the compensation necessary to move forward after your accident.
Steps To Take After a Truck Accident in Phoenix
After suffering injuries in a Phoenix truck crash, taking the correct steps is crucial to protecting your well-being and legal rights.
- Complete Your Medical Treatment Regimen – Your health is the top priority. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully, attend all medical appointments, and complete any prescribed treatments or therapies. This not only ensures your best possible recovery but also provides a clear record of your injuries, which is vital for your legal case.
- Gather Documentation – Start collecting all relevant documentation related to the collision, including medical records, bills, prescription receipts, and any communication with insurance companies. Photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and vehicle damage are also essential. Keeping detailed records will support your claim and help demonstrate the full extent of your damages.
- Speak with a Skilled Phoenix Truck Accident Lawyer – At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we can guide you through the legal process, handle negotiations with the insurance company, and build a strong case on your behalf. Early legal advice can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim.
Contact an Experienced Phoenix Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you sustained injuries in a recent Phoenix trucking collision, the experienced legal team at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers is ready to help. We will aggressively fight for your right to pursue the economic and non-economic damages you deserve. For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled Phoenix truck accident lawyer, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online right away.