Trucking Accident Injuries and Wrongful Death
Seattle, Washington Truck Accident / Wrongful Death Attorney
Representing Truck Accident Victims in Tacoma, Bellvue, and Statewide
A commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making it an extraordinarily powerful force on the road. Although most truck drivers are very conscientious, the drivers who are not pose a serious risk to others. Similarly, there are irresponsible trucking companies that continually ignore federal regulations regarding commercial vehicles. At our firm serving the greater Seattle, Washington area, truck accident and wrongful death attorney Glenn Phillips and associate Autumn Countryman fight to combat driver and trucking company negligence. By seeking damages for victims of truck accidents and their families, our lawyers send a strong message to the parties at fault.
Personal Injury and Property Damage Involving a Truck Accident
A personal injury is broadly defined as an injury that results from the negligence or malpractice of another person or organization. Because of the size of the vehicles involved, trucking accidents are especially likely to cause serious personal injuries such as brain injury, burn injury, spinal cord injury, and amputation. If you feel you have a personal injury case, our Seattle, Washington-based firm can assign you a truck accident attorney who will determine whether you are eligible for damages, as explained in further detail in our section covering accident investigation and reconstruction.
Wrongful Death Caused by Truck Accident
The death of a loved one is one of the most devastating experiences a family can suffer. In addition to severe emotional trauma, these families also experience heavy financial burdens brought on by funeral and medical expenses, as well as loss of income. When compounded by the knowledge that the death could have been prevented, the loss of a family member is especially difficult to accept.
What is a Wrongful Death Claim?
Wrongful death refers to a death that could have been avoided if it were not for another party's negligent actions. At-fault parties can include people, companies, or other organizations whose actions inadvertently led to the death of another person. Wrongful death claims differ from criminal charges because they are brought as a civil suit by a private party. Usually, this party consists of the family and/or dependants of the person killed.
How Does a Wrongful Death Claim Apply to a Truck Accident?
Because the trucking industry is so vast, there are bound to be some unethical drivers and trucking companies among the many responsible ones. Wrongful death claims after a truck accident usually occur because the commercial driver was driving recklessly, was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or failed to properly maintain his or her vehicle. The trucking company can also be held responsible if it hires an inexperienced or unlicensed driver, requires longer hours than are allowed under federal law, or commits a similar act of negligence. If the truck driver or trucking company is found to be at fault, the victim's family can obtain financial entitlements for a wrongful death.
According to the statute of limitations, families seeking to file a wrongful death claim must do so within a designated time frame. Contact our Seattle, Washington-based firm for a wrongful death attorney who can handle your case in a timely manner and provide compassionate legal counsel every step of the way.
Contact an Experienced Washington Truck Accident Attorney
Our firm prides itself on providing exceptional legal services to the greater Seattle, Washington area in cases involving personal injury or wrongful death after a truck accident. Attorney Autumn Countryman and associate Glenn Phillips both have extensive experience in tort law, and will fight with skill and compassion for the well-being of their clients. Contact Phillips Webster today for more information.