Trucking accidents and injuries are common in Wilmington, Delaware, especially on major highways like Interstate 95 (I-95). If you suffered injuries in one of these collisions, the experienced legal team at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers is ready to help. We can gather the necessary evidence to demonstrate that the truck driver or trucking company was at fault and that you should receive compensation.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Wilmington truck accident attorney, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.
Why Should We Represent You?
Following a commercial trucking accident, the insurance company – even your own – is never on your side. Insurance companies will do everything possible to deny claims or, at the very least, undervalue them. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we can aggressively fight for your rights and interests at every stage of the proceedings. Our attorneys have a strong track record of success and have recovered millions of dollars for our injured accident-victim clients.
You can read our most recent client testimonials on our site. Let us maximize the compensation you recover for your truck-accident injuries right away.
How Much Is a Third-Party Wilmington Truck Accident Case Worth?
Following a truck crash in Delaware, collision victims must typically first turn to their Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance coverage. These policies compensate for related medical expenses and lost earnings up to the coverage limits. However, if the collision victim’s losses exceed these coverage limits – or to obtain compensation for pain and suffering – the victim must typically file a third-party claim with the at-fault truck driver or trucking company’s insurer.
The value of a third-party Wilmington truck accident case can vary widely depending on several factors, such as the severity of the injuries and the degree of negligence involved. While it’s hard to pinpoint an exact amount without specific details, truck crash cases can range from thousands to millions of dollars in compensation. The more serious and long-lasting your injuries are, the higher the potential value of your case.
Factors such as medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering all help determine how much your case is worth. Medical expenses include all costs related to treating your injuries, such as hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and physical therapy. If your injuries are severe enough to prevent you from working, you may also be entitled to compensation for lost income, including future earnings, if you cannot return to your job.
In addition to these economic damages, you can also recover non-economic damages like pain and suffering. Pain and suffering compensation addresses the physical pain and emotional distress the crash caused. Pain and suffering can include anxiety, depression, and a reduced quality of life.
If the trucking company or driver acted particularly recklessly or intentionally, you may also be eligible for punitive damages. Punitive damages punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future. When available, they are in addition to other damages and can significantly increase the value of your case.
An experienced Wilmington truck accident attorney at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers can assess the full value of your case and ensure that you receive the maximum compensation to which you are entitled.
Where Do Truck Accidents Occur in Wilmington?
Trucking accidents in Wilmington often occur in areas with heavy traffic, complex roadways, and significant commercial activity. The most common locations include major highways, intersections, and industrial areas where large trucks frequently travel.
- One of the primary hotspots for truck crashes is Interstate 95 (I-95). As a major highway running through Wilmington, I-95 sees a high volume of commercial truck traffic daily. The interstate connects major cities along the East Coast, making it a crucial route for transporting goods. However, the constant flow of large trucks and regular passenger vehicle traffic create a higher risk for collisions. Congested conditions, abrupt lane changes, and the need for trucks to navigate on and off ramps all contribute to the likelihood of crashes.
- Another area prone to truck crashes is Route 202 (Concord Pike) – a busy commercial corridor with numerous shopping centers, businesses, and residential areas. Trucks making deliveries or traveling through this area must navigate frequent stops, turns, and interactions with other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. These factors, coupled with the heavy traffic volume, can lead to collisions – especially during rush hours when the roads are most crowded.
- In addition, Wilmington’s industrial zones, such as those near the Port of Wilmington and along the Christina River, see significant truck traffic. Trucks transporting goods to and from these industrial areas must often maneuver through tight spaces, negotiate sharp turns, and deal with varying road conditions. The complexity of these tasks increases the risk of collisions, particularly in areas where visibility is limited or roadways are poorly maintained.
- Intersections throughout Wilmington also pose a high risk for trucking accidents. Intersections require trucks to stop, start, and turn, which can be challenging for large vehicles. When truck drivers misjudge the timing of lights, fail to yield, or underestimate the space needed to make a turn, serious accidents can occur.
Types of Wilmington Truck Accidents
Trucking accidents in Wilmington often stem from negligence by truck drivers or trucking companies. These collisions fall into several common categories, each with its own causes and consequences.
One of the most frequent types of truck crashes is rear-end collisions, which occur when a truck driver fails to stop in time and crashes into the vehicle in front of them. Given the size and weight of commercial trucks, rear-end collisions can be devastating, causing severe injuries or fatalities. Negligence in these cases often involves distracted driving, such as texting, or failing to maintain a safe following distance.
Wide-turn accidents happen when a truck driver miscalculates the space needed to make a turn, causing the truck to collide with other vehicles or objects. These collisions are particularly common at intersections and in urban areas where space is limited. Negligence in these cases can involve the driver’s failure to use proper signaling or their lack of experience handling tight turns.
Another common category is jackknife accidents, when a truck’s trailer swings out to the side, forming a ninety-degree angle with the cab. These crashes can occur when the driver brakes suddenly, causing the wheels to lock up. Jackknifing is often the result of driver error, such as driving too fast for conditions or failing to maintain the vehicle’s brakes properly. In many cases, the trucking company may also be at fault if it failed to ensure the truck was in safe operating condition.
Rollover accidents are also a significant concern. Rollovers occur when a truck tips over onto its side, often due to taking a curve too quickly or driving with an improperly balanced load. Truck drivers who fail to adjust their speed on curves or do not secure their cargo properly can be held responsible for these collisions. Furthermore, it may be negligent if a trucking company overloads a truck or does not provide adequate training for its drivers.
Finally, fatigue-related crashes are a serious issue in the trucking industry. Truck drivers overworked or pressured by their employers to meet unrealistic deadlines may fall asleep at the wheel or have impaired judgment, leading to accidents. Both the driver and the trucking company can be accountable if fatigue is a factor in the crash.
Common Injuries in a Wilmington Trucking Accident
Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, trucking accidents often result in severe injuries. These injuries can range in severity and typically require extensive medical treatment.
- One of the most common injuries in trucking accidents is whiplash, which occurs when the neck suddenly jerks forward and then back. This motion can cause damage to the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the neck. Treatment for whiplash often includes physical therapy, pain management, and, in some cases, wearing a neck brace.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are also frequent in trucking collisions. A TBI can happen if the head hits a hard surface, such as the dashboard or window, during the collision. Symptoms can range from concussions to severe brain damage, leading to long-term cognitive and physical impairments. Treatment for TBIs may involve surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing neurological care.
- Spinal cord injuries are particularly serious and can result in partial or complete paralysis. These injuries occur when the force of the collision damages the spinal cord, potentially causing a loss of sensation and movement below the injury site. Treatment may include emergency surgery, physical therapy, and long-term care, often involving the use of mobility aids like wheelchairs.
- Broken bones are another common injury in trucking collisions. The impact of a collision can easily fracture bones, especially in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. Treatment typically involves setting the bone, immobilization with casts or braces, and in some cases, surgery to insert pins, plates, or screws to hold the bone in place during healing.
Finally, emotional and psychological injuries are also common after a traumatic truck crash. Victims may suffer from anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Treatment may include therapy, counseling, and medication to help manage these conditions.
Fighting the Insurance Company After a Wilmington Truck Accident
Fighting the insurance company following a trucking accident requires a strategic approach to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, here is how we handle this process:
- Gather Evidence – We will collect and preserve crucial evidence from the accident scene, including photos, witness statements, and police reports. This evidence is vital in proving the other party’s fault and the extent of your damages.
- Evaluate Damages – We will thoroughly assess the full effects of the collision on your life, including medical expenses, lost earnings, and other losses. If your damages exceed your PIP coverage, we can file a third-party claim on your behalf. This comprehensive evaluation ensures that all damages are considered when negotiating with the insurance company.
- Negotiate with Insurers – Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. We will handle all negotiations on your behalf, presenting a strong case backed by evidence. Our goal is to counteract the insurance company’s tactics and secure a fair settlement.
- Consult Experts – We can consult with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and financial analysts to strengthen your case. Their expertise helps establish the extent of your injuries and their repercussions on your future, which is crucial for obtaining appropriate compensation.
- File a Lawsuit If Necessary – If negotiations fail, we are prepared to take legal action. Filing a lawsuit may be necessary to compel the insurance company to pay a fair settlement. We will represent you in court and advocate for your rights throughout the legal process.
- Provide Support and Guidance – We will keep you informed and guide you through each step. Our support ensures that you understand your options and make informed decisions about your case.
Leveraging our experience and resources, we aggressively advocate on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve after a trucking collision in Wilmington.
Steps To Take After a Truck Accident in Wilmington
Following a trucking accident, always follow specific steps to protect your rights and strengthen your case. Here is what you should do:
- Retain Important Documentation – Collect and keep all relevant documents related to the crash. This documentation includes the police report, medical records, repair bills for your vehicle, and any correspondence with the insurance company. Documentation is essential for proving the details of the accident and the extent of your damages.
- Do Not Speak with the Insurance Company – After the accident, avoid discussing the details with the insurance company without legal guidance. Insurance adjusters may try to minimize their payout by asking leading questions or making low settlement offers. It’s best to let one of our experienced attorneys handle all communications to avoid any statements that can harm your case.
- Finish Your Medical Treatment – Complete all prescribed medical treatments and follow your doctor’s advice. Even if you start to feel better, continue with all recommended therapies and check-ups. Completing your treatment is vital for your health and documenting the full extent of your injuries, which is important for your claim.
- Talk with a Wilmington Truck Accident Attorney at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers – Consulting with one of our knowledgeable truck accident attorneys as soon as possible is crucial. We can explain your legal rights, evaluate the strength of your case, and provide guidance on the best course of action. We will also handle negotiations with insurance companies, file necessary legal documents, and represent you in court if needed.
By following these steps, you can ensure that you are well-prepared to pursue compensation for your damages and injuries. Taking prompt and informed actions after a trucking accident will help to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
Speak with an Experienced Wilmington Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you sustained injuries in a recent Wilmington trucking accident, the legal team at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers is ready to help. We can pursue a timely claim or lawsuit on your behalf and work to pursue the compensation you deserve for your accident-related losses.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled Wilmington truck accident lawyer, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.