Trucking accidents in Colorado Springs are unfortunately common occurrences. These collisions typically result from truck driver or trucking company negligence, in one form or another. Sometimes, truck drivers cause these accidents when they violate traffic laws, such as by speeding or engaging in distracted driving. Trucking companies may also cause or contribute to an accident by failing to properly maintain or inspect their vehicles regularly.
If you suffered injuries in a Colorado Springs truck crash, the legal team at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers is prepared to help. We can aggressively pursue your interests, negotiate with insurance company representatives, or litigate your case to a favorable resolution in court.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Colorado Springs truck accident attorney, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.
Why Should We Represent You?
When it comes to maximizing your truck accident compensation, you want an experienced legal team on your side with a strong track record of success. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we have successfully recovered millions of dollars in compensation for injured accident victims. We can handle every step of your case for you and work to maximize the compensation award you ultimately receive.
You can view our most recent client testimonials by clicking on the following link. Let us help you obtain the monetary compensation you deserve for your recent truck accident losses.
How Much Money is a Colorado Springs Truck Accident Case Worth?
If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident in Colorado Springs, the amount you can potentially receive in compensation depends on various factors. Here’s an overview of the compensation you may be entitled to recover, including factors that can affect the total amount.
- Medical Expenses – This includes the cost of emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medication, and ongoing care. If your injuries require long-term care or rehabilitation, these costs are also considered. It’s crucial to keep all medical records and bills as they are used to determine the compensation for medical expenses.
- Lost income – If the truck accident has caused you to miss work, you can claim compensation for the income you would have earned while recovering from your injuries. This includes both the time you have already missed and any future time you may miss if your injuries affect your ability to work in the long term.
- Pain and Suffering – This type of compensation is for the physical pain and emotional distress that results from the trucking accident. It can be more challenging to quantify but is often assessed based on the severity of your injuries, the effects on your quality of life, and how long the effects last.
- Property Damage – This covers the repair or replacement costs for your vehicle and any personal property that was damaged in the accident. If the truck accident has rendered your vehicle unusable, you are entitled to compensation for its total loss or repair costs.
- Loss of Life Enjoyment – If the accident has significantly altered your lifestyle or prevented you from participating in activities you once enjoyed, you may be eligible for compensation related to these losses. This can include hobbies, recreational activities, or other aspects of life that have been negatively affected.
- Punitive Damages – In some cases, if the truck driver’s actions were particularly reckless or intentional, punitive damages may be awarded. The main purpose of these damages is to punish the at-fault party.
The total amount you can receive depends on the specifics of the truck accident, the extent of your injuries, and the insurance policies involved. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we can help you understand the full range of compensation you may be entitled to recover and guide you through the legal process.
Where do Truck Accidents Most Often Occur in Colorado Springs?
In Colorado Springs, truck accidents often occur in areas with heavy traffic, complex intersections, and major highways. Some of the most common locations include:
- Major Highways and Interstates – The most frequent locations for trucking accidents in Colorado Springs are major highways and interstates. For instance, Interstate 25 (I-25) is a primary route that runs north-south through the city. Its high traffic volume, combined with frequent entry and exit points, can lead to collisions involving trucks. Interstate 24 – another key route – also sees significant truck traffic and accidents.
- Busy Intersections – Areas with complex or busy intersections are another hotspot for truck accidents. In Colorado Springs, intersections like the one at Garden of the Gods Road and I-25 can be challenging due to heavy traffic and numerous turn lanes. Trucks navigating these intersections are at a higher risk of accidents, especially if drivers fail to signal or misjudge turning radii.
- Downtown Areas – The downtown area of Colorado Springs also presents unique challenges for truck drivers. Narrow streets, heavy pedestrian traffic, and frequent stoplights make it a difficult area for trucks, which are less maneuverable compared to passenger vehicles. Accidents in these areas can result from truck drivers making tight turns or stopping suddenly in heavy traffic.
- Industrial and Commercial Zones – Truck accidents are also common in industrial and commercial zones where trucks frequently enter and exit businesses. Areas around the Colorado Springs Airport and various industrial parks see a lot of truck traffic, increasing the likelihood of accidents due to high volume and the complexity of these areas.
- Residential Areas – Although less common, truck accidents can also occur in residential neighborhoods. Trucks making deliveries or taking shortcuts through residential areas may face difficulties due to narrow streets, parked cars, and limited visibility.
Common Types of Colorado Springs Trucking Accidents
When truck drivers or trucking companies are negligent, several types of truck crashes can occur in Colorado Springs. Negligence can include things like ignoring safety regulations, driving recklessly, or failing to maintain the vehicle properly. Here’s a look at the types of crashes that can happen due to such negligence:
- Rear-End Collisions – One common type of trucking accident is a rear-end collision, which happens when a truck hits another vehicle from behind. This often occurs if the truck driver is distracted, speeding, or following too closely. In heavy traffic or at stoplights, these crashes can be particularly dangerous.
- Rollovers – Large trucks, especially those carrying heavy loads, are prone to rollover accidents. These can happen when a truck driver takes a turn too quickly if the load is unevenly distributed, or if the driver loses control.
- Jackknife Accidents – Jackknife accidents happen when a truck’s trailer swings out and forms a V shape with the cab. This can occur due to sudden braking, poor road conditions, or a failure in the truck’s braking system. Jackknife accidents can block multiple lanes and lead to severe collisions with other vehicles.
- T-Bone Crashes – T-bone crashes – or side-impact collisions – occur when a truck strikes another vehicle on its side. This can happen at traffic intersections when a truck driver runs a red light or fails to yield. The impact on the side of a vehicle is often severe because there’s less protection compared to the front or rear.
- Head-On Collisions – Although less common, head-on collisions can be catastrophic. They occur when a truck and another vehicle crash into each other directly. These accidents are often the result of a truck driver falling asleep at the wheel or driving under the influence.
- Under-Ride Accidents – In these accidents, smaller vehicles get trapped under the trailer of a truck. This type of crash can happen if the truck’s trailer is not equipped with proper underride guards or if the truck is stopped unexpectedly.
Common Injuries in a Colorado Springs Truck Accident
In a trucking accident in Colorado Springs, injuries can vary widely depending on the severity of the crash and the types of vehicles involved.
Common Injuries
- Whiplash – This is a common injury from rear-end collisions, where the victim’s neck whips back and forth rapidly. Symptoms can include neck pain, stiffness, and headaches.
- Fractures and Broken Bones – The force of a truck accident can cause fractures or breaks in the arms, legs, ribs, or other bones. These injuries often require immediate medical attention and may involve surgeries or the use of casts and braces.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) – If there is a blow to the head or a violent jolt, TBIs can occur. Symptoms may range from concussions to comas and severe brain damage.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis. Treatment often involves surgery, physical therapy, and ongoing care.
- Soft Tissue Injuries – Injuries like sprains, strains, and bruises affect the muscles, ligaments, and tendons. While they may not be as severe as fractures, they still require medical attention and can affect a person’s mobility and daily activities.
Medical Treatment
- Emergency Care – Immediate treatment often starts at the scene of the accident, with emergency medical services providing first aid and transporting individuals to a hospital.
- Surgical Intervention – For severe injuries like fractures, internal injuries, or spinal cord damage, surgery may be necessary to repair damage or stabilize the body.
- Rehabilitation – Many injuries, especially those involving the spine or brain, require extensive rehabilitation. This can include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other forms of therapy to help individuals regain their strength and functionality.
- Follow-Up Care – Ongoing medical appointments and treatments may be required to monitor recovery and address any long-term effects of the injuries sustained.
Fighting the Insurance Company after a Colorado Springs Trucking Accident
Dealing with an insurance company after a truck accident in Colorado Springs can be challenging. Insurance companies often aim to minimize their payout, so having a strong strategy is crucial to ensure you receive fair compensation. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, here’s how we can help you take on the insurance company effectively:
- Gather Evidence – First, we will collect all necessary evidence to support your claim. This includes police reports, medical records, accident photos, and witness statements. Detailed evidence is vital for proving the extent of your injuries and the effects on your life.
- Evaluate Your Claim – We will also assess the full scope of your damages, including medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and property damage. Accurate evaluation ensures that you are asking for a fair amount that covers all of your losses.
- Communicate with the Insurance Company – We will handle all communications with the insurance company on your behalf. This includes negotiating settlements and ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the process. By doing this, we prevent the insurance company from taking advantage of you.
- Use Expert Testimony – If needed, we can involve experts like accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, or financial analysts to support your claim. Their testimony can provide additional evidence and strengthen your case.
- Review Settlement Offers – Insurance companies may offer a quick settlement that is often lower than what you deserve. We review any settlement offers carefully and advise you on whether they are fair – or if you should negotiate for a higher amount.
- Prepare for Litigation – If negotiations do not lead to a satisfactory settlement, we are prepared to take legal action. This includes filing a lawsuit and representing you in court if necessary.
Steps to Take after a Truck Accident in Colorado Springs
After a trucking accident in Colorado Springs, it’s important to take specific steps to protect your rights and ensure you receive proper compensation. Here’s a guide to follow:
- Gather Evidence – Start by collecting as much evidence as possible, including photos of the damage to vehicles, the accident scene, and any visible injuries. Obtain the contact and insurance information of the truck driver and any witnesses. Additionally, make sure to get a copy of the police report, as it provides crucial details about the accident.
- Finish Medical Treatment – Follow all medical advice and complete any prescribed treatments. This will not only ensure your recovery but also create a comprehensive record of your injuries, which is important for your claim.
- Speak to a Skilled Colorado Springs Truck Accident Attorney – At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we can help you understand your available legal options, negotiate with insurance companies, and guide you through the legal process.
Following these steps helps you manage the aftermath of the truck accident effectively and increases your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Contact an Experienced Colorado Springs Truck Accident Lawyer Today
At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we are prepared to aggressively advocate for your rights and pursue the settlement or litigation compensation you need to become whole again. For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a knowledgeable Colorado Springs truck accident attorney, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.