Commercial trucking brings heavy vehicles to Hastings, NE roads. Those heavy rigs are often driven by distracted or fatigued drivers, or operated by companies that max out cargo or cut corners on restraints. If you were injured by such a truck driver or trucking company, you have rights. An experienced Hastings truck accident lawyer at Steffens Law Offices can help you seek accountability. Call today for a free consultation.
Why Hastings Clients Choose Steffens Law Offices in Their Time of Need
A severe commercial vehicle collision can jeopardize your health and financial picture. You deserve dedicated legal representation that prioritizes your family's need for compensation and justice.
Clients choose our legal team because:
- Every client is assigned a legal team of their own.
- We assess each case individually and structure fee arrangements to minimize financial stress for recovering families.
- We have decades of experience handling truck accident cases.
- Our team has recovered tens of millions in compensation awards.
- We adapt our schedule to accommodate your medical appointments.
Contact us today to schedule a free review by phone or video consultation with our Hastings injury lawyer.
Why a Truck Injury Claim Demands Proper Representation
Commercial trucking cases feature complex federal regulations, violations of which can provide evidence of negligence. You need a team that knows how to uncover these violations and prove the full value of your claim.
To do this, your attorney will:
- Subpoena hours-of-service records and electronic logging device data before information is purged.
- Examine driver employment records and carrier safety histories for infractions.
- Inspect maintenance files to uncover worn brake systems, defective tires, or deferred repairs.
- Collaborate with economic experts to calculate future care costs and diminished earning capacity.
- Reject inadequate settlement offers and advocate during negotiations.
- Prepare every case thoroughly for trial and take legal action in court if a fair resolution is denied.
Let our law firm be the one to take on this work for you. Reach out today to learn how we can help.
Federal Regulations in Trucking Accident Cases
Interstate trucking companies are subject to regulations issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Specifically, trucking companies must follow these rules:
- An 11-hour maximum daily driving limit, which drivers cannot exceed even if they're running behind schedule
- A mandatory 30-minute break after 8 cumulative hours of driving, so drivers stay alert behind the wheel
- At least 10 consecutive off-duty hours between work shifts before a driver can get back on the road
- Mandatory vehicle inspections before and after each trip to catch brake, tire, and lighting problems
- Drug and alcohol testing before hiring, at random intervals, after certain crashes, and on reasonable suspicion
- Proper cargo loading and securement standards to keep freight from shifting, spilling, or falling onto the road
- Commercial driver's licensing requirements, including current medical certification to operate a big rig
Commercial truck drivers/companies must also carry significant insurance coverage to address the damages they cause in the crash. This insurance will be your primary source of compensation if a truck accident caused you harm.
Consult a Hastings Commercial Vehicle Accident Attorney
You deserve representation that can go the distance against trucking companies, insurers, and anyone else who stands between you and your injury compensation. Backed by decades of success in truck accident cases, Steffens Law Offices is the firm for you. Contact us today for a free consultation.