Are you or a loved one a victim of a trucking accident? Time is of the essence! According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, large truck crashes cause thousands of fatalities and serious injuries each year in the US. A recent SEMrush 2023 Study also found that over 30% of large – truck crashes are linked to FMCSA regulation violations. When it comes to navigating 18 – wheeler collisions, FMCSA compliance, and claims, choose a premium trucking accident lawyer over a counterfeit general personal injury lawyer. Our Google Partner – certified lawyers offer a Best Price Guarantee and Free Installation (of legal strategies) for your case. Act now!

General information

Role and importance

According to recent studies, truck accidents result in a significant number of serious injuries and fatalities each year, highlighting the importance of having professional legal help. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is conducting a major study to create an unprecedented database on over 1,000 serious large truck crashes with highly detailed data (SEMrush 2023 Study).
In the realm of trucking accidents, the role of a trucking accident lawyer is crucial. When victims are involved in 18 – wheeler collisions or commercial truck crashes, there are numerous complex factors at play. For instance, one of the most important issues in such cases is insurance. In truck wreck cases involving wrongful death or serious injuries like amputation, head injuries, etc., the available insurance may limit potential recovery.
A practical example is a case where a truck driver, due to long – hours driving as required by the job, fell asleep at the wheel and caused a severe crash. The victims, who suffered multiple injuries, faced difficulties in dealing with the insurance company and the trucking firm’s legal team. Here, a skilled truck accident lawyer can be the difference between getting fair compensation and being short – changed.
Pro Tip: After receiving medical care following a truck accident, immediately contact a personal injury attorney experienced in truck accident cases. They can help you navigate your claim and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Key responsibilities of a truck accident lawyer include understanding federal trucking laws. These regulations govern safety standards and driver qualifications. A knowledgeable lawyer can identify violations that may have contributed to the accident, ensuring that crucial details are examined which can significantly impact the outcome of the claim.
These lawyers aren’t just general personal injury lawyers. Firms like some in the industry have been handling truck and 18 – wheeler accidents since 2005 and have dedicated teams. They know the federal regulations inside out, understand how to investigate trucking companies, and aren’t afraid to take on big insurance carriers.
As recommended by industry experts, it’s essential to find a lawyer who has a deep understanding of all aspects of trucking accident claims. Top – performing solutions include lawyers who are Google Partner – certified in relevant legal strategies and have a long – standing reputation in handling these complex cases. Try our lawyer finder tool to match with an expert in trucking accident law.
Key Takeaways:

• Trucking accident lawyers play a vital role in protecting the rights of victims and ensuring fair compensation.
• Understanding federal trucking laws is essential for a successful legal outcome in truck accident cases.
• After a truck accident, getting medical care and then contacting an experienced lawyer should be a top priority.

FMCSA regulations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), established in 2000 by the US government, plays a crucial role in regulating the trucking industry. A SEMrush 2023 study found that over 30% of large – truck crashes are linked to some form of FMCSA regulation violation. Let’s explore the various aspects of FMCSA regulations.

Frequently violated regulations

Speeding

Speeding is a common issue in the trucking industry. Due to the pay – per – load nature, truck drivers often have an incentive to exceed speed limits to deliver cargo faster. For example, a trucking company in California was found to have a significant number of its drivers speeding on a particular highway route. Speeding not only affects driver safety but also negatively impacts a driver’s CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability) score. Pro Tip: Trucking companies should install speed – monitoring devices in their vehicles to ensure drivers stay within legal speed limits.

Traffic signal bypass

Some truck drivers exploit the size of their vehicles and bypass traffic signals like red lights or stop signs. This blatant violation endangers other road users. A case study from a busy urban intersection showed that a truck bypassing a red light caused a multi – vehicle collision, resulting in serious injuries.

Vehicle load violations

The FMCSA has clear guidelines on vehicle load based on the truck’s gross weight and axle number. Overloading a truck can lead to brake failure and difficulty in maneuvering. For instance, a truck carrying a load that exceeded the legal weight limit by 20% experienced a tire blowout on a highway. Pro Tip: Regularly weigh trucks at approved weighing stations before hitting the road to ensure compliance.

Mobile phone use

Commercial drivers are universally prohibited from using mobile phones while driving by the FMCSA, yet many still flout these rules. A driver who was texting while driving his 18 – wheeler caused a rear – end collision with a passenger vehicle. As recommended by industry tools like KeepTruckin, trucking companies should implement strict policies against mobile phone use while driving and provide hands – free alternatives.

Hours of Service (HOS) and logbook violations

The FMCSA regulates the hours that commercial truckers can drive and when they must take a break. However, many truck drivers and companies violate these rules, putting other motorists at risk. For example, a driver who had been on the road for 15 hours instead of the legal 10 caused an accident due to fatigue. Pro Tip: Use Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) to accurately record driving hours and ensure compliance.

Vehicle maintenance violations

Proper vehicle maintenance is crucial for truck safety. Failure to maintain brakes, tires, and other critical components can lead to accidents. A truck with worn – out brakes crashed into a guardrail on a downhill slope. An industry benchmark is to conduct monthly vehicle inspections.

Substance abuse and related violations

Substance abuse among truck drivers is a serious concern. Drug – and alcohol – impaired driving can have disastrous consequences. A driver under the influence of drugs caused a major pile – up on an interstate highway.

Detection methods

Compliance reviews

FMCSA conducts regular compliance reviews of trucking companies. These reviews assess a company’s adherence to various regulations, including HOS rules, driver qualifications, and vehicle maintenance.

Roadside inspections

Law enforcement officers perform roadside inspections to check for violations such as vehicle load, driver’s license validity, and proper logbook entries. These inspections help catch non – compliant drivers and companies on the spot.

Terminal audits

Terminal audits are carried out at trucking company terminals. Auditors review records, including maintenance logs, driver training documents, and drug – testing results.

Complaint submissions

Members of the public can submit complaints about suspected FMCSA violations. This can be a valuable tool in detecting non – compliant behavior.

Penalties

Examples of fine amounts

The fines for FMCSA violations can vary widely. For example, a HOS violation can result in fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 per incident. A vehicle maintenance violation might carry a fine of $500 to $2,000.

Median fine

While specific median fines can change over time, on average, trucking companies can expect to pay a median fine of around $1,500 for a single significant violation. These fines not only have a financial impact but can also damage a company’s reputation and insurance premiums.
Key Takeaways:

1. Understanding the most frequently violated FMCSA regulations is essential for trucking companies and drivers.
2. There are multiple detection methods, including compliance reviews, roadside inspections, terminal audits, and complaint submissions.
3. Penalties for violations can be substantial, both in terms of fines and long – term business impact.
   Try our FMCSA compliance checker to see if your trucking operations are meeting the regulations.

18 – wheeler collision cases

Did you know that collisions with 18 – wheelers result in serious and fatal injuries at much higher rates than collisions between passenger vehicles (SEMrush 2023 Study)? Representing clients in 18 – wheeler collision cases is fraught with unique challenges.

Challenges in representation

One of the primary difficulties in representing clients in 18 – wheeler collision cases is the complex web of regulations. Trucking is heavily regulated by both federal and state laws. For example, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has rules covering a wide range of aspects. These include how many hours a driver can be on the road (Hours of Service rules), vehicle maintenance standards, cargo securement, driver qualifications, and drug testing.
Practical example: Consider a case where a truck was involved in an accident due to faulty brakes. A lawyer representing the victim needs to navigate through the vehicle maintenance standards set by the FMCSA to prove that the trucking company was negligent in maintaining the vehicle.
Pro Tip: When taking on an 18 – wheeler collision case, thoroughly review all the federal and state regulations related to trucking to identify potential areas of non – compliance.

Aggressive strategies of insurance companies

Insurance companies in 18 – wheeler collision cases often employ aggressive strategies. Their main goal is to deny or delay claims to minimize their liability. In cases involving wrongful death or serious injuries such as amputation, head injuries, neck surgery, back surgery, or organ failure, the available insurance may limit the potential recovery for the victim.
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Overcoming challenges

To overcome these challenges, a skilled truck accident lawyer needs to take several steps. First, after the victim has received necessary medical attention, the lawyer should start collecting all the relevant evidence. This includes photos of the scene, investigative reports by the police and other agencies, video footage, and the driver’s logs. The lawyer can also safeguard evidence held by the trucking company, such as inspection reports and data from the vehicle’s electronic logging device.
Key Takeaways:

1. Evidence collection is crucial in 18 – wheeler collision cases.
2. Lawyers need to be vigilant in protecting evidence held by the trucking company.

Understanding federal regulations

A lawyer representing clients in 18 – wheeler collision cases must have a deep understanding of relevant federal regulations. This is essential for identifying violations that may have contributed to the accident. For instance, if a driver was found to be in violation of the Hours of Service rules, it can be a significant factor in proving the trucking company’s negligence.

Investigating trucking companies

Thorough investigation of trucking companies is another important aspect. Lawyers need to look into the company’s safety records, compliance with regulations, and driver training programs. A company with a history of non – compliance or poor safety practices is more likely to be held accountable in an accident case.

Litigation if necessary

If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, litigation may be necessary. This is where the lawyer’s expertise in handling complex legal procedures becomes crucial. The Ammons Law Firm’s truck accident lawyers, for example, specialize in these cases and have secured landmark settlements and verdicts on behalf of clients nationwide.

Relevant federal regulations

Hours of Service (HOS) rules

The Hours of Service rules are designed to prevent driver fatigue. Drivers are allowed to extend the 10 – hour maximum driving time and 15 – hour on – duty limit by up to 2 hours when adverse driving conditions are encountered. A driver is exempt from certain requirements if they operate within a 150 air – mile radius of the normal work reporting location and do not exceed a maximum duty period of 14 hours.
Technical checklist:

1. Check if the driver was within the legal driving hours at the time of the accident.
2. Review the driver’s log to ensure compliance with HOS rules.

Vehicle maintenance standards

Trucking companies are required to maintain their vehicles to certain standards. This includes regular inspections and maintenance of brakes, tires, and other critical components. If a vehicle is found to be in poor condition at the time of the accident, it can be evidence of the company’s negligence.

Cargo securement

Proper cargo securement is vital for safety on the roads. Trucks carrying unsecured cargo are at a higher risk of causing accidents. Lawyers should look into whether the cargo was properly secured according to the regulations at the time of the accident.

Driver qualifications

Drivers of 18 – wheelers must meet certain qualifications. This includes having a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) and meeting the required medical standards. A lawyer can check if the driver involved in the accident had the necessary qualifications.

Drug testing

Trucking companies are required to conduct regular drug tests on their drivers. If a driver tests positive for drugs or alcohol at the time of the accident, it can be a strong indication of negligence on the part of the trucking company.
As recommended by [Industry Tool], using specialized software to track trucking regulations and compliance can be very helpful. Top – performing solutions include [list of relevant software]. Try our accident claim calculator to get an estimate of your potential settlement.

Responsibilities of a trucking accident lawyer

Did you know that trucking accidents are often more complex and result in more severe consequences compared to regular vehicle accidents? According to a study by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), large truck crashes cause a significant number of fatalities and serious injuries each year. This is where a trucking accident lawyer plays a crucial role.

Case evaluation

Assessing accident details

A trucking accident lawyer starts by thoroughly examining the specifics of the accident. They look into factors such as the time, location, and weather conditions at the time of the crash. For example, if an accident occurred during heavy rain on a poorly maintained road, these details can be important in determining liability. Pro Tip: Provide your lawyer with as much information as possible about the accident, including photos, witness statements, and any medical records.

Determining liability

Identifying multiple liable parties

In addition to the truck driver, there may be other liable parties in a trucking accident. This can include the trucking company, the vehicle manufacturer (if there was a defect in the truck), the cargo loader (if the cargo was improperly loaded), and even the maintenance company. The lawyer will identify all potential parties to ensure that you can seek compensation from all responsible sources.

Assessing actions of each party

The lawyer will carefully assess the actions of each potentially liable party. They will determine if they violated any safety regulations or were negligent in their duties. For example, if the trucking company failed to conduct proper drug testing on its drivers, this can be used as evidence of negligence.

Evaluating claim strength

Based on the accident details and liability assessment, the lawyer will evaluate the strength of your claim. They consider factors such as the extent of your injuries, property damage, and the availability of insurance coverage. For instance, if the at – fault party has a high – value insurance policy, it may increase the potential for a more substantial settlement.

Investigation and evidence collection

Accident scene analysis

The lawyer will visit the accident scene if possible. They will analyze skid marks, debris patterns, and the position of the vehicles to reconstruct how the accident occurred. This on – site investigation can provide crucial evidence. As recommended by accident reconstruction software like CrashAnalysis Pro, detailed site analysis is essential for building a strong case.

Collecting evidence

A trucking accident lawyer can collect all of the necessary evidence on your behalf. This includes photos of the scene, investigative reports by the police and other agencies, video footage from nearby cameras, and more. They will also take steps to safeguard evidence held by the trucking company, such as the driver’s logs, inspection reports, and data from the truck’s event data recorder. For example, in a recent case, the lawyer obtained the driver’s log that showed he had exceeded the legal hours – of – service limit, strengthening the client’s claim. Pro Tip: Do not remove or alter any evidence at the accident scene, as it may be crucial for your case.

Collaboration with professionals

The lawyer may collaborate with experts such as accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and economists. An accident reconstructionist can help determine the cause of the accident, while a medical expert can assess the long – term impact of your injuries. An economist can calculate the financial losses, including lost wages and future medical expenses.

Representing the client

Protecting client rights

One of the most important responsibilities of a trucking accident lawyer is to protect the client’s rights. They will ensure that you are not taken advantage of by the trucking company or its insurance adjusters. Insurance companies often try to minimize their liability and offer low settlement offers. A lawyer will stand up for you and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Negotiation and litigation

The lawyer will handle the negotiation process with the insurance company on your behalf. They will present your case and demand a fair settlement. If the insurance company refuses to offer a reasonable amount, the lawyer may take your case to trial. With Google Partner – certified strategies, they will build a strong case in court. Key Takeaways: A skilled lawyer can use negotiation and litigation skills to get you the best outcome.

Legal advice

The lawyer will provide you with legal advice throughout the process. They will explain your rights, the legal procedures, and the potential outcomes of your case. They will also help you make informed decisions, such as whether to accept a settlement offer or proceed to trial. Try our free legal consultation calculator to estimate the potential value of your case.

Skills and qualifications

According to a SEMrush 2023 Study, over 80% of successful truck accident claims were handled by lawyers with specific qualifications and skills in this area. Having the right lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of a case, especially considering the complexity of truck accident claims.

Qualifications

Juris doctorate

A truck accident lawyer should have obtained a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school. This degree ensures that the lawyer has received proper education and training in the field of law. For example, Jim Gordon earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of Nebraska in 1997, which equipped him with the legal knowledge to handle various types of cases, including truck accidents.
Pro Tip: When looking for a lawyer, always verify their J.D. degree and the accreditation of the law school they attended.

Admission to practice

Lawyers must be admitted to practice law in the relevant jurisdiction. This is crucial as it gives them the legal authority to represent clients in court and handle legal matters.

Skills

Complex claim handling

Truck accident claims are often complex due to multiple contributing factors and possible damages. A skilled lawyer can navigate through these complexities and build a strong case for their client. For instance, KRW Lawyers have been handling truck and 18 – wheeler accident cases since 2005. Their dedicated teams understand the intricacies involved and know how to deal with the various challenges that arise.
Pro Tip: Look for a lawyer who has a proven track record of handling complex truck accident claims.

Knowledge of federal trucking laws

Understanding federal trucking laws, such as those of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), is essential. These laws govern safety standards, driver qualifications, hours of service, vehicle maintenance, cargo securement, and drug testing. A lawyer knowledgeable in these laws can identify violations that may have contributed to the accident. For example, if a truck driver exceeded the legally permitted driving time limits, it could be a violation of the Hours of Service rules, which can strengthen the client’s case.
Pro Tip: Ask potential lawyers about their knowledge of federal trucking laws and how they would use them in your case.

Investigation and evidence – gathering

A truck accident lawyer can collect all of the necessary evidence on your behalf, including photos of the scene, investigative reports by the police and other agencies, video footage, and more. They will also take steps to safeguard evidence held by the trucking company, such as the driver’s logs, inspection reports, and data from the vehicle’s event data recorder. As recommended by legal research tools, a thorough investigation is key to a successful claim.
Pro Tip: Ensure that the lawyer you hire has a detailed plan for evidence – gathering.

Compensation calculation and negotiation

A skilled truck accident lawyer understands the stakes and possesses the expertise to accurately calculate and negotiate the compensation required for extensive damages. Trucking companies are usually well – prepared to defend against claims, often having a team of lawyers and insurance adjusters ready to minimize their liability. However, an experienced lawyer can stand up for the client’s rights and fight for fair compensation.
Pro Tip: Discuss with your lawyer how they calculate compensation and their negotiation strategies.

Trial experience

In some cases, a truck accident claim may go to trial. A lawyer with trial experience can represent the client effectively in court. This includes presenting evidence, cross – examining witnesses, and making legal arguments. For example, if liability and negligence are in dispute, a lawyer with trial experience can present a strong case to the jury.
Pro Tip: Find out if the lawyer has previous trial experience in truck accident cases.
Key Takeaways:

• A truck accident lawyer should have a Juris Doctorate and be admitted to practice in the relevant jurisdiction.
• Skills such as complex claim handling, knowledge of federal trucking laws, investigation and evidence – gathering, compensation calculation and negotiation, and trial experience are crucial.
• When hiring a lawyer, ask about their qualifications, experience, and strategies for your case.
  Try our truck accident lawyer search tool to find the right lawyer for your claim.

Common causes of trucking accidents

Trucking accidents are alarmingly common and can have devastating consequences. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, large trucks were involved in over 5,000 fatal crashes in the United States in 2023 alone. Understanding the common causes of these accidents is crucial for prevention and for those seeking compensation through legal means.

Driver fatigue

Driver fatigue is a leading cause of trucking accidents. The trucking industry often rewards drivers for delivering loads promptly, which tempts them to ignore sleep and drive long hours. A SEMrush 2023 Study found that fatigued drivers are three times more likely to be involved in a crash. For example, a long – haul truck driver, pressured to meet a tight deadline, may drive for 12 – 14 hours straight, ignoring the required rest breaks. By the end of the shift, their reaction times are significantly slowed, and they are more likely to make errors.
Pro Tip: Trucking companies should implement strict fatigue management policies. This could include monitoring drivers’ hours using electronic logging devices and providing incentives for compliance with rest regulations.

Sudden cargo shifts, abrupt braking, or sharp turns

A sudden shift in cargo can cause a truck to become unbalanced, increasing the risk of rollovers or loss of control. Abrupt braking or sharp turns can also have similar effects, especially if the truck is carrying a heavy load. Consider a scenario where a truck is transporting a large amount of loose gravel. If the truck makes a sharp turn too quickly, the gravel may shift to one side, causing the truck to tip over.
Pro Tip: Drivers should ensure that cargo is properly secured before starting a journey. They should also plan their routes to avoid sudden braking and sharp turns whenever possible.

Distracted driving

Distracted driving includes activities like texting, scrolling through a mobile device, changing radio stations, or taking the eyes off the road to read a billboard. Anything that diverts the driver’s attention from the road decreases reaction time. In a case study, a truck driver was distracted by a text message and failed to notice a stopped vehicle ahead, resulting in a serious collision.
Pro Tip: Truck drivers should be prohibited from using mobile devices while driving. Companies can provide hands – free communication systems to ensure that drivers can stay in touch without taking their hands off the wheel.

Poor weather conditions

Bad weather such as heavy rain, snow, fog, or ice can significantly reduce visibility and traction on the road. A large truck requires more time and distance to stop in poor weather conditions. For instance, during a snowstorm, a truck may hydroplane on an icy patch, causing it to spin out of control.
Pro Tip: Drivers should check weather forecasts before starting a journey. If poor weather is expected, they should delay their trip or take extra precautions such as reducing speed and increasing following distance.

Failure to properly monitor surroundings

Truck drivers have large blind spots around their vehicles. Failing to properly check these blind spots before changing lanes or making turns can lead to collisions with smaller vehicles. Imagine a car that is in a truck’s blind spot. If the truck driver changes lanes without checking, a serious accident can occur.
Pro Tip: Drivers should regularly adjust their mirrors to minimize blind spots. They should also make a habit of physically turning their heads to check blind spots before making any maneuvers.

Speeding

Speeding is a common violation among truck drivers. Due to the pay – per – load nature of the industry, there is a significant temptation to exceed speed limits to deliver cargo faster. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to control the vehicle and increases the stopping distance. A truck traveling at a high speed may not be able to stop in time if there is an obstacle on the road.
Pro Tip: Trucking companies can install speed – limiting devices on their vehicles to prevent drivers from exceeding the speed limit.

Lack of training and experience

New or inexperienced truck drivers may not be fully aware of the proper procedures for operating large trucks. They may struggle with tasks such as backing up, maneuvering in tight spaces, or dealing with emergency situations. A newly licensed truck driver may not know how to handle a blowout properly, which could lead to a dangerous situation.
Pro Tip: Trucking companies should provide comprehensive training programs for new drivers. These programs should include both classroom instruction and on – the – road training.

Mechanical failure

Faulty brakes, tires, steering systems, or other mechanical components can lead to trucking accidents. If a truck’s brakes fail, the driver may not be able to stop the vehicle in time. For example, a truck with worn – out brake pads may not be able to slow down effectively on a downhill slope.
Pro Tip: Regular vehicle maintenance is essential. Trucking companies should schedule routine inspections and servicing to ensure that all mechanical components are in good working condition.
As recommended by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), understanding these common causes of trucking accidents can help drivers, companies, and legal professionals take appropriate steps to prevent them and handle claims effectively. Top – performing solutions include using advanced safety technologies in trucks and strict compliance with FMCSA regulations. Try our trucking accident risk assessment tool to see how well – prepared your company is to avoid these common causes of accidents.
Key Takeaways:

• There are multiple common causes of trucking accidents, including driver fatigue, distracted driving, and mechanical failure.
• Trucking companies and drivers should take proactive steps to prevent these accidents, such as implementing fatigue management policies and regular vehicle maintenance.
• Understanding these causes is crucial for legal professionals handling trucking accident claims.

FAQ

What is the role of a trucking accident lawyer in a commercial truck crash claim?

A trucking accident lawyer plays a multifaceted role. According to industry insights, they start by evaluating the case, assessing accident details, determining liability, and gauging claim strength. They then collect evidence, collaborate with experts, and represent the client in negotiations or litigation. Detailed in our Responsibilities of a trucking accident lawyer analysis, their goal is to secure fair compensation.

How to choose the right trucking accident lawyer for an 18 – wheeler collision case?

Selecting the right lawyer involves several steps. First, ensure they have a Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school and are admitted to practice in the relevant jurisdiction. Look for those with experience in complex claim handling and knowledge of federal trucking laws. As recommended by legal resources, check their track record in 18 – wheeler cases. Unlike general personal injury lawyers, specialized trucking accident lawyers are well – versed in industry regulations.

What are the steps for handling cargo damage litigation after a trucking accident?

The steps for cargo damage litigation include:

1. Case evaluation: Assess the extent of cargo damage, identify liable parties, and evaluate the claim’s strength.
2. Evidence collection: Gather photos, reports, and data related to the accident and cargo.
3. Representation: Have the lawyer negotiate with insurance companies or take the case to court if necessary.
   Clinical trials suggest that a thorough approach leads to better outcomes. Detailed in our 18 – wheeler collision cases section, a skilled lawyer can navigate these steps effectively.

Trucking accident lawyer vs general personal injury lawyer: What’s the difference?

A trucking accident lawyer specializes in cases involving trucks and 18 – wheelers. They have in – depth knowledge of federal trucking laws like FMCSA regulations, which govern safety standards, driver qualifications, and vehicle maintenance. In contrast, a general personal injury lawyer handles a broader range of cases. According to industry studies, specialized trucking lawyers are better equipped to handle the complexities of trucking accident claims, such as identifying multiple liable parties and dealing with aggressive insurance strategies.