Minnesota Truck Accident Lawyer

Home » Minnesota Truck Accident Lawyer

Imagine driving down I-35 in Minneapolis, your mind on your destination, when suddenly a massive 18-wheeler veers into your lane. In an instant, your life changes forever. The aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming – dealing with injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and the daunting task of facing large trucking companies and their insurers.

That's where Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys steps in. As a Minnesota truck accident lawyer and law firm, we're here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Why Choose Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys?

Our team of skilled attorneys represents truck accident victims throughout Minnesota, from the streets of Minneapolis to the scenic roads of Duluth.

We understand the complexities of Minnesota traffic laws and the federal regulations governing the trucking industry. This deep understanding allows us to build strong cases that hold negligent parties accountable.

What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to our clients. We don't just see case numbers – we see individuals and families whose lives have been upended by tragedy. That's why we fight tirelessly to ensure you receive maximum compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Truck Accident Compensation: What's Your Case Worth?

One of the most common questions we hear from truck accident victims is, "How much is my case worth?" The truth is, every case is unique, and the value depends on various factors. However, under Minnesota law, you may be entitled to several types of compensation:

1. Economic Damages

These include measurable financial losses such as:

•    Medical expenses (past and future)
•    Lost wages
•    Loss of earning capacity
•    Property damage

2. Non-Economic Damages 

These are more subjective and can include:

•    Pain and suffering
•    Emotional distress
•    Loss of enjoyment of life
•    Loss of consortium

3. Punitive Damages

In cases of severe negligence or purposeful misconduct, Minnesota Statute § 549.20 allows for punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.

At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys, we work diligently to assess all aspects of your case, including:

• The severity of your injuries
• Long-term medical prognosis
• Impact on your ability to work
• Effects on your quality of life
• The degree of negligence involved

Our goal is to secure a settlement or verdict that truly reflects the full extent of your losses and suffering. We've recovered millions for our clients, including:

• $8,500,000 for a wrongful death and catastrophic injury in an 18-wheeler accident
• $7,500,000 for serious injuries sustained in a commercial vehicle accident
• $6,500,000 for a wrongful death caused by an 18-wheeler accident

While past results don't guarantee future outcomes, they demonstrate our commitment to maximizing our clients' compensation.

Where Do Truck Accidents Occur in Minnesota?

Truck accidents can happen anywhere in Minnesota, but certain areas see a higher concentration of these devastating crashes. Understanding where these accidents commonly occur can help drivers stay vigilant and potentially avoid dangerous situations.

Some of the most dangerous areas for truck accidents include:

1. Interstate Highways: I-35, I-94, and I-90 are major trucking routes and see many accidents. The interchange between I-35W and I-94 in Minneapolis is particularly notorious for truck crashes.
2. Urban Areas: The Twin Cities metropolitan area, including Minneapolis and St. Paul, experiences a high volume of truck traffic and, consequently, more accidents.
3. Rural Highways: Routes like US-169, US-10, and MN-23 see their share of truck accidents, often due to high speeds and less frequent traffic stops.
4. Construction Zones: Ongoing road work, common across Minnesota, can create hazardous conditions for trucks and passenger vehicles alike.
5. Intersections: Large intersections, particularly those near industrial areas or distribution centers, are common sites for truck accidents.

Understanding Truck Accidents

Due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles, truck accidents are often more complex and dangerous than typical car accidents. Understanding the various types of truck accidents and the injuries they can cause is crucial when pursuing a legal claim.

Types of Truck Accidents

1. Jackknife Accidents occur when a truck's trailer swings out at a 90-degree angle from the cab, often due to improper braking or slippery road conditions.
2. Rollover Accidents: When a truck tips onto its side or roof, often due to high speeds, improper loading, or sharp turns.
3. Underride Accidents: These devastating accidents happen when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the trailer of a truck.
4. Rear-End Collisions: Trucks require much longer stopping distances due to their size and weight, which can lead to rear-end collisions.
5. Wide-turn accidents: Trucks need extra space to make turns, so they sometimes swing wide or into other lanes, potentially hitting other vehicles.
6. Tire Blowouts: When a truck's tire fails, it can lead to loss of control and serious accidents.
7. Lost Load Accidents: Improperly secured cargo can fall from a truck, creating hazards for other drivers.

Common Truck Accident Injuries

The injuries resulting from truck accidents are often severe and life-altering. Some common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
• Spinal Cord Injuries
• Broken Bones
• Internal Organ Damage
• Severe Burns
• Amputations
• Whiplash and Neck Injuries
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Understanding Trucking Regulations in Minnesota

To effectively represent truck accident victims, you need a lawyer with a thorough understanding of the regulations governing the trucking industry.

At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys, we stay current with federal and state regulations to identify any violations that may have contributed to your accident. Our commitment to staying informed about these complex and ever-changing regulations allows us to provide the best possible representation for our clients.

We recognize that the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, and our goal is to alleviate some of that burden by handling the legal intricacies while you focus on recovery.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Regulations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets nationwide standards for commercial trucking. These regulations are designed to ensure the safety of both truck drivers and other motorists on the road.

One key regulation is the Hours of Service (HOS) rule, which limits how long drivers can be on the road to prevent fatigue-related accidents. Under these rules, drivers are generally limited to 11 hours of driving time within a 14-hour on-duty period, followed by a mandatory 10-hour rest period.

These strict time limits prevent driver fatigue, which has been identified as a major contributing factor in many truck accidents.

Another critical aspect of FMCSA regulations is the requirement for drug and alcohol testing. Trucking companies must conduct pre-employment, random, and post-accident drug and alcohol tests on drivers. This helps ensure drivers do not operate these massive vehicles while under the influence of substances that could impair their judgment and reaction times. The rigorous testing regime includes both scheduled and surprise tests to maintain its effectiveness.

Vehicle maintenance is another area heavily regulated by the FMCSA. Carriers must regularly inspect, repair, and maintain all vehicles under their control. This includes routine checks of brakes, tires, lighting, and other critical systems. Proper maintenance is essential in preventing accidents caused by mechanical failures, which can be particularly catastrophic when involving large commercial trucks.

Cargo securement is also strictly regulated. There are specific rules for how different types of cargo must be loaded and secured. These rules vary depending on the cargo being transported, from loose materials like gravel to large machinery. Proper cargo securement is crucial in preventing load shifts during transit, which can cause trucks to become unstable or even overturn.

In recent years, the FMCSA has mandated using Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) for most commercial trucks. These devices accurately track driving hours, replacing the old system of paper logs, which were more susceptible to manipulation. ELDs provide a more reliable record of a driver's hours, helping to enforce HOS regulations and prevent driver fatigue.

Minnesota-Specific Trucking Regulations

While federal regulations provide a baseline for trucking safety, individual states often have additional rules to address local concerns. Minnesota, with its unique geography and climate, has several state-specific regulations for commercial trucking.

One of the most important state regulations concerns weight limits. Minnesota enforces strict weight limits on its roads and bridges. These limits are in place not only to prevent damage to infrastructure but also because overweight trucks are more prone to accidents.

The extra weight affects the vehicle's handling, increases stopping distances, and puts more stress on critical components like brakes and tires. Trucking companies and drivers must know these limits and plan their routes accordingly, especially when carrying heavy loads.

Minnesota's climate presents unique challenges for trucking, leading to several seasonal regulations. During the spring thaw, when the ground is softer and more susceptible to damage, Minnesota imposes additional weight restrictions to protect roads from damage. These seasonal load restrictions can significantly impact trucking operations and require careful planning by trucking companies.

The harsh Minnesota winters have also led to specific regulations. Minnesota Statute § 169.42 requires the removal of snow and ice from commercial vehicles before they enter the highway.

This law prevents chunks of ice or snow from flying off trucks and causing accidents or damage to other vehicles. During severe winter weather, certain commercial vehicles may need tire chains on specific routes. This requirement helps ensure that trucks can maintain traction on icy or snow-covered roads, reducing the risk of accidents.

Trucks carrying oversized loads need special permits. The permitting process ensures the safe transportation of oversized loads, often with specific route restrictions and additional safety measures like escort vehicles.

When investigating your truck accident case, we at Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys will thoroughly examine whether any of these federal or state regulations were violated. Such violations can establish negligence and liability. Our team is well-versed in these regulations and how they apply to various trucking scenarios, allowing us to build a strong case on your behalf.

Fighting the Insurance Company

After a truck accident, you'll likely find yourself facing not just one but multiple insurance companies. These may include the trucking company's insurer, the driver's personal insurance, and potentially others, depending on the circumstances of the accident. Insurance companies have one primary goal: to minimize their payouts.

This is where having Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys on your side becomes important. We understand these tactics and know how to counter them effectively. Our experienced attorneys will:

• Handle all communications with insurance companies on your behalf
• Ensure that your injuries and damages are properly documented and valued
• Negotiate aggressively to secure a fair settlement
• Prepare your case for trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached

Remember, Minnesota law gives you certain rights when dealing with insurance companies. For example, under Minnesota Statute § 72A.201, insurance companies must act in good faith when handling claims. If they fail to do so, they may be subject to additional penalties.

Don't let insurance companies take advantage of you during this vulnerable time. Let Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys level the playing field and fight for the compensation you truly deserve.

What to Do After a Truck Accident

If you've been involved in a truck accident in Minnesota, taking the right steps in the aftermath can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation.

Several actions can protect your legal rights:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Follow up with your doctor and keep all appointments.
2. Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of your medical treatments, medications, and how your injuries affect your daily life. This documentation can be crucial evidence in your case.
3. Obtain the Police Report: Request a copy of the official accident report. This document can provide valuable information for your case.
4. Keep a Journal: Write down your experiences, pain levels, and how the accident has impacted your life. This personal account can be powerful evidence.
5. Be Cautious with Social Media: Avoid posting about the accident or your injuries online, as insurance companies may use this information against you.
6. Don't Sign Anything: Refrain from signing any documents or accepting any settlement offers without consulting an attorney first.
7. Contact Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys: The sooner you involve us, the better we can protect your rights and build a strong case.

Contact Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys Today

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident in Minnesota, don't face this challenging time alone. The experienced team at Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys is here to help you navigate the complex legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Don't let the trucking companies and their insurers take advantage of you. Level the playing field with Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys by your side. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us show you why we're Minnesota's premier choice for truck accident representation.

Call us now at (205) 957-4995 or visit our website to schedule your free consultation. At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys, we're not just lawyers – we're your advocates, your support system, and your path to justice. Let us fight for you.