Trucking accidents in Des Moines, Iowa, frequently result from negligence by truck drivers or trucking companies. Truck drivers usually cause accidents when they become distracted, speed, or engage in other aggressive driving maneuvers. Similarly, a trucking company may cause or contribute to an accident by failing to inspect vehicles regularly or supervise drivers.
If you suffered injuries in a recent Des Moines trucking accident, the knowledgeable legal team at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers is here to help. We can go over all of your legal options with you, fight for your rights, and pursue the maximum amount of compensation available to you in your case.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Des Moines truck accident attorney, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.
Why Select Us for Representation?
When it comes to recovering the justice and compensation you need after a Des Moines, Iowa, trucking accident, you should look no further than the legal team at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers. Over the years, we have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our injured clients, and we are not afraid to litigate cases all the way to trial if that step becomes necessary.
Let us help you secure the financial compensation you deserve for your accident-related losses right away. You can view our most recent client testimonials by clicking here.
How Much Money is a Des Moines Truck Accident Case Worth?
The value of a truck accident case in Des Moines, Iowa, depends on several factors. Here are the key elements that influence the value of a trucking accident claim:
- Severity of Injuries – The more serious your injuries, the higher the potential compensation. This includes not only physical injuries but also emotional distress. Severe injuries may require long-term medical care or result in permanent disability, increasing the case’s value.
- Medical Expenses – All medical costs related to the accident, including hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical care, are factored into the case value. The more extensive the treatment, the higher the compensation you may recover.
- Lost income and Earning Capacity – If the accident caused you to miss work, you can be compensated for lost income. If your injuries are so severe that they affect your ability to work in the future, you may also receive compensation for lost earning capacity.
- Property Damage – The cost to repair or replace your vehicle and any other damaged property may also be included in the final compensation amount. This is especially important if the truck accident caused significant damage to your vehicle.
- Pain and Suffering – This refers to compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve experienced due to the trucking accident. In some cases, pain and suffering can be a significant portion of the total compensation.
- Negligence and Liability – If it’s clear that the truck driver or trucking company was at fault, this element strengthens your case. Factors like driving under the influence, speeding, or violating trucking regulations can increase the value of your claim.
Examples of Compensation You May Recover
- Economic Damages – These cover tangible losses like medical expenses, lost income, and property damage.
- Non-Economic Damages – These damages include compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of life enjoyment.
- Punitive Damages – In rare cases, if the truck driver’s behavior was especially reckless or malicious, you may be awarded punitive damages, which are meant to punish the wrongdoer.
Each truck accident case is unique, so it’s essential to consult with an experienced Des Moines truck accident attorney about your case. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we can evaluate all of these factors and help you understand the potential value of your claim.
Where Do Trucking Accidents Most Frequently Occur in Des Moines?
One of the most common locations for trucking accidents in Des Moines, Iowa, is along the stretch of Interstate 80 (I-80) that passes through the city. I-80 is a major east-west highway that spans the entire country, making it a vital route for commercial trucks transporting goods across the Midwest and beyond. However, the high volume of traffic on this interstate, combined with its intersections with other major roads, makes it a hotspot for accidents – particularly those involving large trucks.
The interchange where I-80 intersects with Interstate 35 (I-35) and Interstate 235 (I-235) is particularly notorious. Known as the “Mixmaster,” this complex web of highways is a significant traffic hub where vehicles merge and diverge at high speeds. The intricate design of this interchange can be confusing and challenging to navigate, especially for truck drivers who need to carefully manage the size and weight of their vehicles. The tight curves, frequent lane changes, and heavy traffic make this area especially prone to accidents.
Weather conditions further exacerbate the dangers on this stretch of highway. Iowa’s harsh winters bring snow and ice, making the roads slippery and reducing visibility. High winds, which are common in the region, can also be hazardous – particularly for large trucks that are more susceptible to tipping over. When truck drivers fail to adjust their speeds to the prevailing traffic and weather conditions, serious accidents and injuries may result.
Types of Trucking Accidents in Des Moines
Trucking accidents in Des Moines, Iowa, often happen because of negligence by trucking companies or truck drivers. Here are some of the most common categories of these accidents:
- Fatigue-Related Accidents – Truck drivers often work long hours to meet tight deadlines, which can lead to extreme fatigue. When a driver is tired, their reaction times slow down, and they may even fall asleep at the wheel. This can lead to dangerous accidents, especially on busy highways like I-80 and I-35 in Des Moines.
- Distracted Driving Accidents – Just like other drivers, truckers can become distracted while driving. Whether it’s using a cell phone, eating, or adjusting the radio, any distraction can take their focus off the road. When a truck driver is distracted, they are more likely to cause an accident – especially given the size and weight of the vehicle they’re operating.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving – Some trucking companies may push their drivers to deliver goods quickly, leading to speeding and other reckless behaviors. Speeding in a large truck is especially dangerous because these vehicles need more time and distance to stop. Additionally, reckless driving, such as aggressive lane changes or tailgating, increases the risk of a serious crash.
- Improperly Loaded Cargo – Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring that cargo is loaded correctly. If the load is unbalanced or not secured properly, it can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable. This can lead to rollovers or the truck losing its load on the road, both of which can cause severe accidents.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance – Trucking companies are required to keep their vehicles in good condition. However, some companies cut corners on maintenance to save money. Faulty brakes, worn tires, or other mechanical failures can lead to accidents. For example, if a truck’s brakes fail while driving through Des Moines, the result can be catastrophic.
Common Injuries in a Des Moines Trucking Accident
In Des Moines, Iowa, truck accidents can result in a variety of serious injuries due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. The most frequent types of injuries sustained in these collisions reflect the severe impact that large trucks can have in accidents.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) – One of the most severe types of injuries from truck accidents is a traumatic brain injury. TBIs can occur when the head strikes an object or is jolted violently. Symptoms can range from concussions to more severe brain damage, affecting cognitive functions, motor skills, and emotional well-being. The long-term effects of a TBI can be profound, often requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – The force of a truck accident can also cause damage to the spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis. Spinal cord injuries can result in loss of sensation, movement, and bodily functions below the site of the injury. These injuries often require long-term medical care, including surgeries, physical therapy, and adaptive equipment, and can drastically alter a person’s quality of life.
- Fractures and Broken Bones – Due to the high-impact nature of trucking accidents, fractures and broken bones are common. These can range from simple fractures to complex, compound breaks that may require surgical intervention. Recovery from such injuries can be lengthy and may involve significant physical therapy to restore mobility and function.
- Soft Tissue Injuries – Soft tissue injuries, including whiplash and muscle strains, are also prevalent in truck accidents. Whiplash occurs when the head is forced forward and backward violently, damaging the neck’s soft tissues. These injuries can lead to chronic pain and stiffness, affecting a person’s ability to perform daily activities.
- Amputations – In severe cases, trucking accidents can result in limb amputations due to the extensive damage resulting from the collision. Amputations require immediate medical attention and long-term rehabilitation.
Fighting the Insurance Company after a Trucking Accident in Des Moines
Navigating a trucking accident case in Des Moines, Iowa, can be challenging, especially when dealing with insurance companies. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, here’s how we can help you fight for the compensation you deserve and manage every aspect of your case:
- Thorough Case Evaluation – We will start by conducting a comprehensive review of your case. This involves gathering all relevant evidence, including accident reports, medical records, and witness statements. By understanding the full scope of your injuries and losses, we can build a strong case against the insurance company.
- Negotiation with Insurance Companies – Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. Our team is skilled in negotiating with insurance adjusters to ensure you receive fair compensation. We know how to counteract lowball offers and advocate for the value of your claim based on your medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
- Handling Legal Procedures – Filing a lawsuit involves complex legal procedures. We can take care of all the paperwork, court filings, and deadlines, ensuring that every legal requirement is met. This allows you to focus on your recovery without worrying about the administrative details of your case.
- Expert Witnesses and Evidence – We can work with expert witnesses, such as accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals, to strengthen your case. Their testimony can provide valuable insights and help to establish the extent of your damages and the trucking company or driver’s liability.
- Representation in Court – If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, we are prepared to take your case to court. We will represent you during trial, presenting evidence and arguments to support your claim and fight for your rights in front of a judge and jury.
By handling every aspect of your trucking accident case, we aim to alleviate your stress and increase your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve. Our goal is to ensure that you are fully supported throughout the legal process.
Steps to Take after a Truck Accident in Des Moines
After a trucking accident in Des Moines, Iowa, taking the right steps is crucial to protect your health and legal rights. Here are the most important actions to take:
- Finish Your Medical Treatment – First, you should focus on completing all necessary medical treatment. Follow your doctor’s advice and attend all scheduled appointments. This ensures that you receive proper care and establishes a clear record of your injuries, which is essential for your case.
- Gather Important Documents – Collect all relevant documents related to the accident. This includes medical records, accident reports, and any correspondence with insurance companies. Keep a detailed record of your medical expenses, lost income, and other related costs. These documents will support your claim and help demonstrate the extent of your damages.
- Speak with a Des Moines Truck Accident Attorney – At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we can guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, and provide valuable advice on how to proceed.
By taking these steps, you’ll be better prepared to manage the aftermath of your trucking accident and improve your chances of obtaining fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Talk with an Experienced Des Moines Truck Accident Lawyer Today
At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we will aggressively fight for your rights and interests during settlement negotiations with the insurance company – or during litigation – to maximize the compensation you receive for your injuries.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a knowledgeable Des Moines truck accident lawyer, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.