A large number of the collisions that occur between semi-trucks and passenger vehicles result from preventable human error. Unfortunately, when massive 80,000-pound trucks collide with cars that are less than one-tenth of their weight, the result is often life-altering catastrophic injury or fatality. When these accidents are caused by negligence—either by a truck driver, a trucking company, or another entity—victims have a legal right to seek compensation for damages.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Nevada, contact Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P. to request a case review. We skillfully handle all types of truck accident cases, including those involving intoxicated drivers, fatigued drivers, distracted drivers, maintenance failures, negligent hiring, and improperly loaded trailers. Backed by an impressive history of verdicts and settlements and more than a century of combined legal experience, you can count on our firm to deliver.
Call Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P. today at (775) 284-8888 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our truck accident lawyer in Reno!
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Because liability in truck accident claims is so complex, it is critical to determine exactly how the accident occurred and what factors contributed to it. Pinpointing the cause of the accident allows our team to effectively bring a claim against the responsible person or party.
Some common causes of large semi-truck and other commercial vehicle accidents include:
- Truck Driver Negligence: This includes actions such as eating, drinking, or texting while driving; other forms of distracted driving; negligently failing to follow traffic laws and/or the rules of the road; driving while tired or falling asleep at the wheel; insufficient vehicle maintenance (when this is the responsibility of the driver); and more. Understanding these behaviors and their impacts on safety can enhance prevention strategies.
- Truck Driver Misconduct: As opposed to negligence, misconduct implies a greater level of intent. Examples include drunk driving or drugged driving; reckless driving, such as swerving in and out of lanes or excessive speeding; aggressive driving, such as cutting off other drivers or engaging in road rage behaviors. Addressing these issues often involves both legal penalties and driver re-education.
- Negligent Trucking Company Practices: Examples include negligent hiring or supervision, failing to conduct background checks on truck drivers, encouraging or not punishing truck drivers for violating federal hours-of-service regulations, and pushing unrealistic quotas and/or schedules or punishing truck drivers for failing to meet such requirements. Proper oversight and adherence to safety standards are crucial to prevent such negligence.
- Defective Trucks/Truck Parts: Defectively designed or manufactured trucks and truck parts contribute to these types of accidents every year. Common defective truck parts include tires, braking systems, engine components, headlights and taillights, reflective strips, backup signals, cargo doors, and more. Regular maintenance and prompt recalls on defective parts are essential to mitigate these risks.
- Poor Weather Conditions: While no one can be held responsible for the weather, truck drivers have a responsibility to drive even more safely when conditions are bad. This might include actions such as reducing speeds, using daytime headlights, or waiting out particularly unsafe conditions, such as icy roads. Increased awareness and technologically advanced safety measures can aid drivers in adverse conditions.
Understanding Reno's Local Trucking Regulations
Navigating the complex landscape of trucking laws can be challenging. In Reno and throughout Nevada, trucking regulations are enforced to ensure safety on highways and local roads. These regulations are particularly critical given the high volume of freight traffic passing through the region, often involving vehicles like 18-wheelers and semi-trucks.
Nevada's adherence to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) standards plays a significant role. These standards cover everything from vehicle maintenance schedules to driver work-hour limits under the Hours of Service rules. Understanding these laws is crucial for any involved party in an accident, as breaches can significantly impact liability determinations. Furthermore, Reno's unique topography and climate necessitate specific precautions, such as regulations on tire chains during winter months to prevent accidents on icy roads. Our firm, Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P., offers in-depth knowledge of these local and state regulations, allowing us to expertly navigate compliance issues when representing clients.
How We Support Our Clients Beyond the Courtroom
At Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P., our commitment to clients extends far beyond the courtroom. We understand that accident recovery is as much about personal well-being as it is about legal resolution. This holistic approach underpins how we handle every case. Our dedication is evident in our client communication practices, which include flexible scheduling options and diligent follow-ups to ensure we're meeting clients' evolving needs throughout their recovery period.
To further support our clients, we collaborate with an array of professionals, including medical experts, life-care planners, and financial advisers. These partnerships enable us to provide comprehensive assistance that covers physical recovery, future financial planning, and psychological support. By approaching each case with a broad, client-centered strategy, we aim to alleviate the stresses involved in legal procedures while maximizing each client's recovery outcomes. Our long-standing reputation in Northern Nevada for compassionate, detailed, and robust legal advocacy stands testament to our effectiveness and dedication.