Trucking accidents in Dover, Delaware, are common on U.S. Route 1 and other major roadways in the area. These accidents frequently happen when truck drivers and trucking companies violate traffic laws or deviate from state and federal motor carrier regulations.
If you suffered injuries in a recent commercial trucking accident, the skilled legal team at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers is ready to help. We can aggressively fight for your rights and pursue the justice and compensation you need to become whole again.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Dover truck accident attorney, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.
Why Choose Us?
Dover trucking accidents can lead to serious medical complications and expensive medical treatment. Given everything that is riding on the line, you do not want to leave anything to chance. The knowledgeable team of Dover truck accident attorneys at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers is prepared to fight for your rights every step of the way. We have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our injured clients over the years, and we welcome the opportunity to settle or litigate your truck accident case right away.
You can view our most recent client testimonials by clicking on the following link.
How Much Is a Third-Party Dover Truck Accident Case Worth?
If you have been involved in a trucking crash in Dover, Delaware, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Following a truck collision, victims must first turn to their own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance coverage for compensation. PIP policies ordinarily cover an accident victim's medical expenses and lost income up to the policy limits. However, if their losses exceed those limits, or if they need to recover compensation for pain and suffering, they must file a third-party claim with the at-fault truck driver or trucking company's insurance.
The amount you can recover in a third-party claim or lawsuit depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the effect on your life, and the level of negligence by the truck driver or trucking company.
There are two main forms of compensation you can recover: economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
These damages cover the financial losses you have suffered because of the accident. They include:
- Medical Expenses – These expenses refer to the cost of your medical treatment, both present and future. They include hospital bills, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any other related healthcare costs.
- Lost income – If you have had to miss work due to your injuries, you can recover the income you lost. If your injuries prevent you from returning to work or force you to take a lower-paying job, you may also be entitled to compensation for lost earning capacity.
If your PIP benefits do not cover all of these losses, you can bring a third-party claim or lawsuit against the at-fault truck driver or trucking company for the remainder.
Non-Economic Damages
These damages are more subjective and cover the emotional and psychological effects of the accident. They include:
- Pain and Suffering – This compensates you for the physical pain and emotional distress the accident and your injuries caused.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life – If your injuries have significantly reduced your ability to enjoy activities you once loved, you may be entitled to compensation.
- Loss of Consortium – If the accident has affected your relationship with your spouse, such as loss of companionship or intimacy, your spouse can recover these damages.
Final Amount
The final amount of compensation you may receive can vary widely. It can range from thousands to potentially millions of dollars, depending on the circumstances of your case. A skilled Dover truck accident attorney at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers can assess the full value of your claim and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Where Do Trucking Accidents Most Commonly Occur in Dover?
In Dover, Delaware, certain areas are more prone to commercial trucking accidents due to the volume of traffic, road conditions, and the presence of major highways and intersections:
- Route 1 – One of the most frequent locations for trucking accidents in Dover is along Route 1. This highway is a major corridor running through the state, connecting Dover to other cities like Wilmington and Rehoboth Beach. The combination of high speeds, heavy traffic, and the presence of large commercial trucks can lead to serious collisions, especially near on-ramps, off-ramps, and construction zones.
- Route 13 – Another hotspot for trucking accidents is Route 13. This road runs parallel to Route 1, but trucks often use it as a more direct route through Dover’s business areas. Route 13 passes through densely populated areas with numerous traffic lights, intersections, and access points to businesses, increasing the risk of collisions. Trucks navigating these stops and starts, along with regular vehicle traffic, can create dangerous conditions, particularly during rush hours.
- The Intersection of Route 13 and Route 8 – One of the most accident-prone intersections in Dover is where Route 13 intersects with Route 8. This busy crossroad sees a lot of traffic, including a high volume of trucks. With multiple lanes of traffic, frequent turning movements, and the presence of pedestrians, this intersection is a common site for crashes involving commercial trucks. The risk increases during peak traffic times, such as in the morning and late afternoon.
- Industrial and Commercial Areas – Dover’s industrial zones, where there is a high concentration of warehouses and distribution centers, also see frequent trucking collisions. Areas like Bay Road near Dover Air Force Base and South Little Creek Road are common locations where trucks are entering and exiting industrial facilities. The large vehicles maneuvering in tight spaces, combined with regular traffic, contribute to the likelihood of accidents.
Types of Dover Truck Accidents
In Dover, Delaware, trucking accidents often occur due to negligence on the part of truck drivers or trucking companies. These accidents can be particularly dangerous due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. Some of the most common categories of trucking accidents that result from negligence include:
- Rear-End Collisions – Rear-end collisions are one of the most frequent types of trucking accidents in Dover. These crashes occur when a truck crashes into the vehicle in front of it. Due to the significant weight of commercial trucks, these accidents can cause severe injuries or even fatalities, especially to occupants of smaller vehicles. Negligence often plays a role when a truck driver fails to maintain a safe following distance, is distracted, or is driving too fast for road conditions. Poorly maintained brakes, which are the responsibility of the trucking company, can also contribute to rear-end collisions.
- Rollover Accidents – Rollover accidents are among the most catastrophic types of trucking collisions. Rollovers occur when a truck tips over onto its side or roof, often due to speeding, taking a curve too sharply, or improperly loaded cargo. Negligence by the truck driver, such as speeding or failing to account for the truck’s high center of gravity, can lead to rollovers. Similarly, if the trucking company does not ensure that the cargo is properly secured or balanced, the risk of a rollover increases. These accidents can result in severe injuries to the truck driver and other road users, particularly if the truck rolls over onto another vehicle.
- Jackknife Accidents – Jackknife accidents happen when a truck’s trailer swings out from behind the cab, forming a ninety-degree angle. This type of accident typically results from sudden braking or slippery road conditions, but negligence is often a factor. For instance, a truck driver may be driving too fast for conditions, fail to brake properly or lose control due to inexperience. In addition, a trucking company’s failure to properly maintain the truck or ensure the driver is adequately trained can lead to these dangerous situations. Jackknife accidents can block multiple lanes of traffic and cause multi-vehicle pileups.
Common Injuries in a Dover Truck Accident
Trucking accidents in Dover, Delaware, can lead to serious injuries, especially when they occur due to negligence by truck drivers or trucking companies. The large size and weight of trucks mean that even a minor mistake can have devastating consequences for those involved. Here are some of the most common types of injuries that can happen in a trucking accident and the medical treatments that may be needed:
- Head and Brain Injuries – Head and brain injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), are common in trucking accidents. These injuries can happen when a person’s head hits the steering wheel, dashboard, or window. Symptoms may range from headaches and dizziness to memory loss and difficulty concentrating. Treatment often includes rest, medication, and, in more severe cases, surgery to relieve pressure on the brain. Long-term rehabilitation may be necessary to help the victim recover fully.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – Spinal cord injuries are another serious outcome of truck crashes. These injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis, depending on where the spine is damaged. Immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent further damage. Treatment often involves surgery, physical therapy, and possibly lifelong care, especially if the injury leads to permanent disability.
- Broken Bones – Broken bones are common in trucking accidents due to the force of the collision. Victims may suffer fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, or other parts of the body. Treatment typically includes setting the bone, using casts or braces, and, in some cases, surgery to insert pins or plates. Physical therapy is often necessary to help the victim regain strength and mobility.
- Internal Injuries – Internal injuries, such as damage to organs or internal bleeding, can be life-threatening if not treated quickly. These injuries may not be immediately apparent, which is why seeking medical attention after a crash is crucial. Treatment usually involves surgery and close monitoring in a hospital.
Fighting the Insurance Company after a Dover Truck Accident
If you have been involved in a trucking accident in Dover, Delaware, fighting the insurance company on your own can be overwhelming. Insurance companies often try to minimize the amount they pay out, but with the right legal help, you can level the playing field.
How We Fight for You
When you retain us at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we will start by thoroughly investigating your accident. This investigation includes gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and video footage. We will also work with accident reconstruction experts if needed to prove the truck driver or trucking company was negligent.
Next, we will handle all communication with the insurance company. Insurance adjusters may try to pressure you into accepting a low settlement or may use your statements against you. We will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for your medical bills, lost earnings, and pain and suffering. If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we will not hesitate to take your case to court.
PIP Insurance in Delaware
Delaware is a no-fault state, which means your own insurance, through PIP, will cover your initial medical expenses and lost income, regardless of who was at fault in the collision. However, PIP coverage can be limited, and in cases where your injuries are severe, your expenses may exceed your PIP limits, which is where pursuing a claim against the at-fault truck driver or company becomes crucial. We will navigate the PIP process and make sure you are compensated beyond the basic coverage if your injuries warrant it.
By having us on your side, you can focus on your recovery while we fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Steps To Take After a Truck Accident in Dover
Following a truck crash in Dover, Delaware, taking the right steps can significantly affect your ability to recover compensation.
- Complete Your Medical Treatment – Your health should be your top priority. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan closely, attending all appointments, and taking prescribed medications. Completing your medical treatment is not only crucial for your recovery but also for documenting the extent of your injuries, which will be essential in any legal claim.
- Retain Documentation – Collect and keep all documentation related to the accident, including the police report and your medical records. Retaining this evidence is vital in proving negligence on the part of the truck driver or trucking company. Furthermore, keep a record of any expenses you incur as a result of the accident, such as medical bills or lost earnings.
- Speak with a Dover Truck Accident Attorney – At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers; we can guide you through the complex legal process, handle negotiations with the insurance company, and ensure that your rights are protected. The sooner you involve us, the better we can preserve evidence and build a strong case on your behalf.
Contact an Experienced Dover Truck Accident Lawyer Today
At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, our experienced legal team can advocate for you every step of the way and pursue the maximum compensation available in your truck collision case. For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled Dover truck accident lawyer, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.