Washington, D.C. Truck Accident Attorneys

Types of Truck Accidents

At United Attorney Group, we understand the unique legal challenges involved in collisions involving tractor-trailers, 18-wheelers, and other large commercial trucks. Our firm represents individuals following all types of truck accidents. Common cases we handle include: 

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife accidents occur when a truck's trailer swings outward to form a 90-degree angle with the cab, often due to lost traction. 

Underride Accidents

Underride accidents occur when a smaller vehicle slides beneath a tractor-trailer, often leading to catastrophic injuries or fatalities. 

Brake Failure Accidents

Brake failure accidents may occur when a truck’s brakes malfunction, preventing the operator from stopping safely.

Tire Blowout Accidents

Burst tires on 18-wheelers and big rigs can cause the operator to lose control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of serious accidents.

Blind Spot Accidents

Semi-trucks have large blind spots that reduce visibility. Blind spot accidents occur when an operator fails to check their mirrors before turning or changing lanes.

Wide-Turn Accidents

Tractor-trailers may collide with nearby vehicles or cyclists while making wide turns. Some contributing factors include the truck’s size and turning radius. 

Common Injuries Resulting from Truck Accidents

While any auto accident can be devastating, truck accidents are especially dangerous due to the massive size and weight of these vehicles. Collisions involving tractor-trailers and 18-wheelers often result in catastrophic harm, making it crucial to know your rights after an accident. 

Common injuries suffered in truck accidents include:  

• Limb loss 
• Burn injuries
• Brain injuries
• Internal injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones and fractures

How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Claim?

In Washington, D.C., the statute of limitations for truck accident claims is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, some exceptions may apply under specific circumstances. For example, bringing lawsuits against government entities or municipalities may be subject to stricter deadlines. 

Failure to file within the appropriate timeframe can result in the loss of eligibility for damages, making it critical to consult a trusted injury lawyer as soon as possible after a truck accident. Our firm can thoroughly investigate the accident to determine liable parties and help you file a timely claim within the correct deadline. 

Who Is Liable for Damages in a Truck Accident Claim?

Depending on the circumstances of the accident, various parties may be liable for damages in a truck accident claim. Some potentially liable parties include: 

• Truck operators. Truck drivers are often the primary liable party in truck accident claims. They may be responsible if their negligence contributed to the collision, such as driving while impaired or failing to check blind spots. 
• Trucking companies. If the trucking company contributed to the accident by failing to hire qualified drivers, provide proper training, or follow safety protocols, it may be liable for damages. 
• Maintenance providers. Maintenance companies may be liable if they were negligent in repairing or maintaining the truck, such as failing to conduct proper inspections or using substandard parts.
• Cargo loaders. Cargo loaders may be liable if their negligence in loading or securing cargo contributed to the crash, such as overloading or inadequate securement methods that cause cargo to shift, fall, or become unstable.

I Was Hit by a Semi-Truck on North Capitol Street. What Types of Compensation Can I Recover? 

If you were hit by a semi-truck on North Capitol Street, you may be entitled to compensation if you can prove that the accident resulted from negligence. However, the type and amount of compensation depend on the severity of your injuries and other unique factors. 

Some potentially recoverable damages include medical expenses, lost earnings, loss of future earning capacity, property damage, and past and future treatment costs, as well as non-economic losses like pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and permanent scarring or disfigurement.

At United Attorney Group, our goal is to recover a comprehensive settlement for all your current and future care needs. We can calculate the full scope of damages and assess every avenue for financial recovery to maximize the amount of compensation available to you. 

I Was in a Truck Accident on Connecticut Avenue Near Dupont Circle. Can I Recover Compensation if I Was Partially At Fault? 

Washington, D.C. operates under a contributory negligence system. This law prevents plaintiffs from recovering compensation in an injury claim even if they are slightly at fault for the accident. However, there are some exceptions to this rule under Code of the District of Columbia § 50-2204.52, including pedestrians and “vulnerable users” of public highways or sidewalks. 

While the contributory negligence law can make it challenging to recover compensation, this doesn’t mean that recovering a settlement isn’t possible with the right attorney. If you were hit by a truck near Dupont Circle, our lawyers can meticulously review your claim to determine possible avenues for compensation and build a strong case while protecting your rights against greedy insurers. 

If you were harmed in a truck accident, choose an injury firm with winning results to pursue justice. Call (202) 953-3377 to schedule a free consultation.