Any type of collision between a commercial tractor-trailer and a standard commuter vehicle could have catastrophic consequences for the people in the smaller car. However, the outcome tends to be even more devastating when truck drivers T-bone or sideswipe other vehicles. Passengers are relatively unprotected by the sides of the vehicle and may suffer severe injuries due to the incoming force.
If you were involved in a side-impact truck accident in Kenosha, you may have many questions about the possibility of civil recovery and your options for pursuing legal action. A dedicated lawyer at the Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd. could ensure you understand your rights and work tirelessly to secure a favorable final outcome to your lawsuit or settlement demand.
Causes of Side-Impact Truck Wrecks in Kenosha
Side-impact truck accidents in Kenosha and throughout the United States typically happen at intersections between multi-lane roads and on exits off of highways. If a truck driver does not drive carefully when traveling perpendicular to other vehicles, they may end up striking another car at the doors or side paneling, causing severe harm to its drivers and passengers.
In many cases, side-impact truck wrecks stem from a truck driver failing to follow a traffic regulation, such as driving too fast, not stopping for a red light or stop sign, or making inappropriate or unsafe left turns. In other situations, T-bone crashes can be traced back to a failure to account for inclement road conditions, faulty brakes or steering, or even poor road maintenance by a state or local government entity. A skilled attorney nearby could help investigate a sideswipe truck accident and determine who may be held liable for the victim’s damages.
Seeking Compensation for a T-Bone Truck Collision
A successful claim for a side-impact truck crash may recover compensation for every economic and non-economic loss connected to the accident. Specific recoverable damages in this type of situation may include but are not limited to:
- Bills for past and future medical care
- Expenses due to physical pain from accident-related injuries
- Lost work income and/or future earning capacity
- Car rental, repair, and/or replacement costs
- Emotional suffering due to permanent disability or disfigurement
- Lost personal opportunities and enjoyment of life
Obstacles to Recovery in Tractor-Trailer Sideswipe Accident Cases
Importantly, WI Stat. §895.045 allows courts to reduce recoverable compensation for plaintiffs found partially responsible for their own injuries. If a plaintiff is more than 50 percent at fault for the accident, they may be barred from recovering any compensation at all. It is important for side-impact truck crash victims to work with an experienced lawyer at our Kenosha office for help contesting any allegations of blame.
At the Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd., our legal team could work to efficiently identify the best party or parties to hold accountable for a plaintiff’s damages. Legal counsel could also provide critical assistance complying with the applicable statutory filing deadline for side-impact truck crash claims, which Wisconsin Statutes §893.54 sets at three years from the date of the accident.
Work with a Kenosha Attorney on a Side-Impact Truck Accident Claim
Collisions between commercial trucks and commuter cars are often devastating for the passengers of the smaller vehicles. Sadly, side-impact truck accidents in Kenosha are responsible for many severe injuries and fatalities each year.
If you or a loved one experienced this type of crash, there are legal options for pursuing the compensation you deserve from the negligent parties. Call the dedicated attorneys at the Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd. for the support and guidance you need to obtain a successful outcome.
