Legal Help for Truck Accident Victims Across Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s roadways are vital for commerce and transportation, with countless semi-trucks and commercial vehicles traveling daily. While these vehicles are essential to our economy, they also pose significant risks.

When trucking accidents happen, the consequences can be catastrophic, often leaving victims with life-altering injuries or worse.

Injured in a truck accident? At Pemberton Personal Injury Law Firm, we understand the complexities of truck accident cases. Our truck accident attorneys know how to protect your rights to compensation. Our objective is your recovery.

Why Choose Pemberton?

Truck accident cases differ significantly from standard car accidents. They often involve multiple liable parties. These could include truck drivers, trucking companies, or manufacturers of defective truck parts.

Successfully navigating these cases requires in-depth knowledge of federal trucking regulations. Accident victims will need a strong case for sufficient financial recovery – that’s where we come in.

At Pemberton Personal Injury Law Firm, we:

• Investigate every detail of the crash, including driver logs, vehicle maintenance records, and black box data.
• Work with accident reconstruction experts to identify the root cause of the collision.
• Stand up to powerful insurance companies and trucking corporations on your behalf.

Types of Damages We Can Pursue

If you are a victim of a truck accident, you may receive compensation for:

• Medical expenses, including future treatments
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Wrongful death (if applicable)

The Unique Challenges of Truck Accident Claims

Truck accident claims present more complexities than typical car accidents due to a few factors. 

Multiple Defending Parties

Multiple parties may be involved in the injury claim. For example, whether a truck driver is a contractor or a full-time employee will make a difference. Liability may fall to the truck driver for negligence, but the claim may also involve the shipment owner as well. The circumstances can vary significantly.

Commercial Vehicle Requirements

There are stricter federal rules for commercial vehicles compared to regular vehicles. For example, trucking companies must keep records of drivers’ hours, vehicle maintenance, and cargo loads. These records can be critical in proving negligence, but they are not always easy to obtain without legal support.

Technological Complications

Semi-trucks have advanced technology like electronic logging devices and black box recorders. These tools collect important data, such as speed, braking patterns, and hours of operation before a crash. However, getting this evidence requires quick action. Trucking companies might withhold it or remove it altogether.

Our accident injury lawyers act quickly to secure the evidence you need. Our priority is holding negligent parties accountable and delivering justice for our clients.

Read our Wisconsin truck accident FAQ for additional information. 

Common Causes of Wisconsin Trucking Accidents

Trucking accidents often result from negligence or unsafe practices, including:

• Driver fatigue from long hours on the road
• Lack of truck maintenance
• Overloaded or improperly secured cargo
• Distracted or impaired driving
• Failure to adhere to traffic laws or safety regulations
• Negligent driving on hazardous or slippery roads

When these factors lead to an accident, the results can be devastating. Semi-truck accidents often involve massive vehicles and smaller passenger cars.

They can also leave victims with severe injuries. Common injuries in trucking accidents may include spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or broken bones.

The Alarming Reality of Semi-Truck Accidents

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, over 150,000 individuals suffer injuries from truck-related accidents every year

Wisconsin’s highways, including I-94 and I-39, are no exception, seeing their share of these tragic events. In 2022, the state saw 78 fatal crashes involving commercial vehicles.

Federal and Wisconsin Trucking Regulations

Commercial trucking is governed by strict federal and state laws designed to protect public safety. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has rules to keep drivers safe.

One rule, for example, limits how long drivers can work without resting. This helps reduce accidents caused by tiredness. Trucks must also meet rigorous maintenance standards, including regular inspections of brakes, tires, and other critical systems.

Relevant Wisconsin laws include weight limits on some roads during thaw periods. This helps maintain safe traveling for everyone on the road. Following these regulations is important for road safety. And, if trucking companies or drivers do not comply, liability for an accident may fall to them.

Truck Accidents on Icy Roads

While icy roads are a challenge for all drivers, the risks increase significantly for large trucks. A fully loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making it much harder to stop or maneuver in slippery conditions. Additionally, truck drivers often face tight schedules that may pressure them to drive in less-than-ideal conditions.

Crashes involving trucks are not only more severe but also more complex. For instance, accident fault may lie with the trucking company if maintenance logs reveal worn tires or inadequate winter preparation.

Get Help from a Trusted Wisconsin Truck Accident Lawyer

The aftermath of a trucking accident can be overwhelming. Medical bills, lost income, and emotional trauma can leave you struggling to move forward.

Pemberton Personal Injury Law Firm can help you get on your feet again. Our injury lawyers provide compassionate, skilled representation when you need it most. Don’t face the legal process alone.

Contact us today for a free case evaluation. Call (608) 448-6242. We will work diligently to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.

Office Locations

We serve clients throughout Wisconsin. You can find us at the following locations: