Truck Accident Lawyers in Utah

Putting Over 300 Years of Combined Experience to Work for You

Of all traffic collisions in Utah, those involving large commercial trucks can be the most tragic. Victims of these collisions are frequently the occupants of other vehicles, as opposed to the truck operators, according to nationwide truck accident statistics presented by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Victims of these collisions may experience catastrophic injuries and may even lose their lives. They and their families may be left facing uncertain futures. Pearson Butler attorneys understand that this is a stressful and difficult time. Don’t face it alone.

During these difficult times, the skilled professionals at Pearson Butler can offer the caring support and experienced guidance you need. Pearson Butler’s attorneys are experienced in understanding truck accidents in Utah. We work with experts to ascertain the primary cause of a collision in order to assign liability. We know how to help clients by building compelling cases based on physical evidence and the testimony of expert witnesses to maximize compensation.

If you want a top-notch legal team on your side, call 385-444-2102. Pearson Butler has over 300 years of combined legal experience to tackle your truck accident case.

Common Types of Car Accidents

A truck accident is a collision involving large commercial vehicles such as semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, or 18-wheelers with other vehicles, pedestrians, or objects. Due to the size and weight of these trucks, accidents can result in significant property damage, severe injuries, and fatalities.

Common types of truck accidents include:

• Rear-End Collisions: A rear-end collision happens when a truck crashes into the vehicle directly in front of it. This type of accident is often caused by tailgating, distracted driving, or sudden stops.
• Jackknife Accidents: Jackknife accidents occur when a truck’s trailer swings out perpendicular to the cab, creating a V-shape. This usually results from abrupt braking or slippery road conditions.
• Rollover Accidents: A rollover accident happens when a truck tips over onto its side or roof. This can be caused by high speeds, sharp turns, or unevenly distributed cargo.
• Underride Accidents: In underride accidents, a smaller vehicle slides under the rear or side of a truck. This often leads to severe injuries or fatalities due to the height difference between the truck and the smaller vehicle.
• Head-On Collisions: Head-on collisions occur when a truck crashes into the front of another vehicle. They are commonly caused by wrong-way driving, driver fatigue, or distractions.
• T-Bone (Side-Impact) Collisions: T-bone accidents involve a truck crashing into the side of another vehicle, typically at an intersection. These accidents often result from running red lights or stop signs.
• Blind Spot (No-Zone) Accidents: Blind spot accidents occur when a truck driver cannot see vehicles in their blind spots and changes lanes or turns, leading to collisions. These are often due to improper lane changes or merging.
• Wide Turn Accidents: Wide turn accidents happen when a truck makes a wide left turn before turning right, often hitting vehicles on the right. This is due to the truck’s large turning radius.
• Cargo-Related Accidents: Cargo-related accidents are caused by improperly secured or overloaded cargo that shifts during transit. This can lead to loss of control, rollovers, or debris falling onto the road.
• Brake Failure Accidents: Brake failure accidents occur when a truck's braking system fails, resulting in a loss of control. This is often due to poor maintenance, overheating, or defective brake components.

Underlying Causes of Truck Accidents

A truck accident may have one or more causes or factors that contribute to its occurrence. For example, an overtired truck driver may not see a large pothole in the road, which causes a blown tire that projects into the path of another vehicle, thereby causing an accident. In this situation, it is important to consider the truck operator’s responsibility, as well as the potential liability of the municipality or other government entity that may be responsible for maintaining the roadway. Looking at an accident from every possible angle will help your lawyer understand the primary cause of your accident and identify all sources of compensation.

The truck accident attorneys at Pearson Butler deal with Utah cases involving:

• Defective or poorly maintained truck parts
• Dangerous roadways
• Truck driver fatigue
• Overloaded trucks
• Improperly balanced or unsecured truck cargo
• Speeding or driving too fast for road/weather conditions
• Unsafe lane changes and merges
• Drunk driving
• Driving under the influence of illegal or prescription drugs
• Hours-of-service violations by drivers and trucking companies

Who is Liable for a Truck Accident?

In a truck accident, liability can fall on various parties, depending on the circumstances surrounding the crash. Here’s a breakdown of who can be held liable:

• Truck Driver: The driver may be held liable if their actions directly caused the accident. Common causes include speeding, distracted driving, driving under the influence, or violating traffic laws.
• Trucking Company: The trucking company can be liable under the principle of vicarious liability if the driver was acting within the scope of their employment. They can also be held responsible for issues like inadequate training, negligent hiring, or failing to maintain the truck properly.
• Truck Owner: If the truck is owned by a party other than the trucking company (e.g., an independent owner-operator), the owner might be liable for accidents resulting from the truck’s condition or improper maintenance.
• Cargo Loaders: Parties responsible for loading the truck’s cargo can be liable if improper loading led to a shift or spill that caused the accident. This includes ensuring the cargo is properly secured and balanced.
• Maintenance Providers: Companies or individuals responsible for the truck’s maintenance can be held liable if poor maintenance led to the accident. This includes failures in brakes, tires, or other crucial vehicle components.
• Vehicle Manufacturers: Manufacturers may be liable if a defect in the truck or its components contributed to the accident. This can involve defective parts or design flaws.
• Government Entities: In some cases, government entities might be liable if the accident resulted from poorly maintained roads, faulty traffic signals, or other infrastructure issues.

At Pearson Butler, we understand the complexities involved in determining fault in truck accident claims. Our Utah truck accident lawyer is dedicated to thoroughly investigating every detail of your case, from analyzing driver logs and maintenance records to evaluating the role of third parties.

We work tirelessly to gather evidence and build a strong case to ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable. Trust us to navigate the legal process, advocate for your rights, and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on your recovery.

Find out what caused your accident and who is accountable. Call 385-444-2102 today to schedule your free consultation.