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AFJ Law Firm PLLC – Bozeman’s Trusted Truck Accident Attorneys

Commercial Trucking and Semi-Truck Accidents Attorney in Bozeman, Montana

truck accident

At AFJ Law Firm PLLC, we have been fighting for the rights of Montanans for over a decade. Our firm specializes in personal injury law and has a deep understanding of the complexities involved in handling even the most challenging cases. When a commercial truck’s negligence turns your life upside down, it’s important to have a Bozeman-based attorney on your side who understands the intricate regulations and power dynamics of the trucking industry.

If you or a loved one have been involved in an accident with a semi-truck or other large commercial vehicle, it can be a life-changing event. These accidents are not like ordinary car crashes. The sheer size and weight of these trucks create forces that can cause severe, permanent injuries or even death. 

We understand that these are difficult times, and we are here to help. We will guide you through the complex legal process, protect your rights, and work hard to ensure that you receive full compensation for your losses.

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What is a Commercial Motor Vehicle?

Commercial motor vehicles are commonly known by several names, including semi-trucks, semi-trailers, tractor-trailers, straight trucks, 18-wheelers, and big rigs, among others. Some of these vehicles are defined differently under the FMCSRs.

A vehicle that has a gross vehicle rating or gross combination weight rating, or gross vehicle weight or gross combination weight, of 4,536 kg (10,001 pounds) or more, whichever is greater, may be a commercial motor vehicle in certain circumstances. Most often, commercial motor vehicle drivers of semi-trucks and similar vehicles are driving vehicles weighing up to 80,000 pounds.

A commercial trucking accident may involve a commercial truck or a private vehicle. The majority of commercial automobiles are heavy, large, and dangerous. Sometimes, commercial trucks transport flammable chemicals that can cause explosions and other hazardous conditions. Even if a commercial truck is traveling at a low rate of speed, it is possible for other drivers and passengers to suffer serious bodily injuries during an accident. Some of the most common types of commercial automobiles include the following: 

  • Semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, and 18-wheelers 
  • School buses, city buses, and private buses 
  • Garbage trucks and refuse trucks 
  • Dump trucks and construction equipment 
  • Tow trucks and car haulers 
  • Delivery vans
  • Construction trucks towing trailers and construction equipment

  • I have an insurance issue where my insurance company is denying my claim. AFJ Law Firm wasn’t able to take the case, but did share some thoughts about the law that might help me out. I really appreciate Anthony taking the time to consult with me and share his thoughts. He was able to provide me with some suggestions about what he would do to get me started in the right direction. Thanks, Anthony and AFJ Law Firm, for your time and help.

    Ryan

Our Victories

The Staggering Dangers of Commercial Truck Accidents

The statistics from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) present a grim picture, especially for our state. In 2021, Montana had the fourth-highest fatal accident rate in the country for large truck and bus collisions per miles driven – a rate almost double the national average.

Nationally, that same year saw 5,904 police-reported large truck and bus fatal crashes, resulting in at least 5,991 deaths. Alarmingly, the number of fatal crashes involving large trucks has increased by 52% between 2010 and 2021. When a 80,000-pound semi-truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the occupants of the smaller vehicle often suffer life-altering injuries or death due to the impact.

Common Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents

While some truck accidents may be truly unavoidable, most of them are caused by human error and corporate negligence that could have been prevented. Our investigations often reveal factors such as:

  • Driver Fatigue: Violating federal hours-of-service regulations that limit driving time.
  • Distracted Driving: Using cell phones, GPS devices, or other electronic devices while driving.
  • Speeding and aggressive driving: Especially failing to adjust speed for Montana’s variable weather and road conditions.
  • Improperly Loaded or Overweight Cargo: This can lead to rollovers and loss of control of the vehicle.
  • Lack of Training or Supervision: Drivers without experience with specific types of cargo or routes may not be able to handle the situation properly.
  • Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Neglecting important aspects such as brakes, tires, and other systems can cause accidents.
  • Traffic Laws: Violating traffic laws such as following too closely, making improper lane changes, or driving under the influence can increase the risk of accidents.

The FMCSA reports that in approximately 38% of large truck accidents, the driver makes a significant error. This error can include driving at a speed that is too high for the conditions, miscalculating the speed of other vehicles or driving too close to them.

Why Commercial Trucking Accidents Are Different

A semi-truck accident is fundamentally different from a typical car accident. The legal process is more complicated, with trucking companies, insurance companies and other potentially responsible parties often involved. These organizations have significant financial resources and legal teams working to minimize their financial liability.

Liability is often disputed, and numerous federal and state regulations govern every aspect of the trucking industry, from driver qualifications and logbooks to maintenance schedules and cargo loading. Uncovering this complex web of regulations requires an attorney who knows exactly what evidence to request immediately, such as electronic logging device (ELD) data, driver qualifications, and maintenance records, before they can be “lost” or destroyed.

Determining Liability in Truck Accident Cases

At AFJ Law Firm, we go beyond the driver. We thoroughly investigate to identify every party who may have contributed to the accident. The trucking company could be liable for hiring drivers who are not properly trained or pressuring them to skip rest breaks. A third-party loader may be responsible for improperly securing freight. 

A repair shop could have failed to fix a known brake defect. Manufacturers can also be held accountable for supplying defective parts. By pursuing all responsible parties, we maximize your potential compensation and ensure that no one escapes accountability for their negligence.

  • Anthony helped me out with a legal matter. He was very helpful and got a great result. Thanks to him and his firm for all of their help. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a lawyer in Montana.

    Darryl

Compensation Available to Truck Accident Victims

The physical, emotional, and financial impact of a serious truck accident can be devastating. We fight hard to obtain comprehensive compensation for our clients, including:

  • Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future costs associated with hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, and therapy.
  • Lost Wages and Loss of Future Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to work.
  • Pain and Suffering: For the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve experienced.
  • Property Damage: To repair or replace your vehicle.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: The inability to engage in activities you once enjoyed.
  • In the event of wrongful death, we pursue damages to cover funeral costs, lost financial support, and the loss of companionship.

Learn More About Catastrophic Injuries

You Have a Path Forward. Contact Us Today.

The aftermath of a trucking accident can be confusing and frightening, and the decisions you make at this time can significantly impact your financial future and that of your family. It is important not to give any statements to the insurance company until you have spoken with us. Our experience and commitment can help guide you through this challenging time.

We understand the federal and state regulations that apply to the trucking industry, and we know how to gather and analyze crucial evidence that proves negligence. We are not afraid of large corporations, and we are fully prepared to take your case to court to ensure that you receive the justice that you deserve.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a truck accident in Bozeman, MT or elsewhere in Montana, contact AFJ Law Firm PLLC for a free consultation. Our team of experienced attorneys is here to listen, answer your questions, and fight for your future.

Common AFJ Law Firm PLLC – Bozeman’s Trusted Truck Accident Attorneys FAQs

Why is a truck accident case more complex than a standard car accident?

Multiple parties can be liable beyond the driver, including the trucking company, cargo loaders, maintenance contractors, and parts manufacturers. These cases are governed by a dense web of federal and state regulations, and defendants have substantial legal resources. Immediate investigation is critical to secure evidence like electronic logs and maintenance records before they are lost.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a truck accident in Montana?

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Montana is three years from the date of the accident. However, due to the complexity of identifying all liable parties and the need for swift evidence preservation, contacting an attorney immediately is vital to protect your rights.

Who can be held responsible for my semi-truck accident?

Liability can extend to the truck driver (for negligence), the trucking company (for negligent hiring, training, or pressuring drivers to violate regulations), a cargo loading company (for improper loading), a maintenance provider (for faulty repairs), or a manufacturer (for defective parts like brakes or tires). A thorough investigation is needed to identify all at-fault parties.

What crucial evidence is needed to prove a trucking company’s negligence?

Key evidence includes the truck’s Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data to prove hours-of-service violations, the driver’s qualification file and training records, the vehicle’s maintenance and inspection reports, the cargo loading manifest, and the truck’s “black box” (ECM) data showing speed, braking, and other actions before the crash.

The insurance company contacted me immediately. Should I give a statement?

No. You are under no obligation to provide a recorded statement to the trucking company’s insurer. Their goal is to obtain information to minimize or deny your claim. It is in your best interest to consult with an attorney first, who can manage all communications on your behalf.

What makes AFJ Law Firm specifically equipped to handle these cases?

We focus exclusively on personal injury and understand the intricate federal regulations (FMCSRs) that govern the trucking industry. We know how to immediately secure the critical electronic and paper evidence that companies may try to obscure. Our experience and resources allow us to build strong cases against well-funded corporate defendants and their insurers.

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