Bluffton Truck Accident Lawyer

Bluffton, South Carolina, with its charming streets, pristine beaches, and relaxed atmosphere, is a haven for tourists and residents alike. However, beneath the picturesque facade lies a hidden danger: truck accidents.

These collisions involving large commercial vehicles can be catastrophic, leaving victims with life-altering injuries and immense financial burdens. If you’ve been injured in a Bluffton truck accident caused by someone else’s negligence, the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm is here to help you navigate the legal system and secure the compensation you deserve.

Bluffton Truck Accident Attorney Is Your Advocate After a Collision With a Large Commercial Vehicle

Sharing the road with massive tractor-trailers, delivery trucks, and other large commercial vehicles can be intimidating. Unfortunately, truck accidents are more frequent than many realize. The sheer size and weight disparity between trucks and passenger vehicles often result in devastating consequences for car occupants.

At the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm, our dedicated team of Bluffton truck accident attorneys understands the complexities involved in these cases. We are committed to providing compassionate and aggressive legal representation to ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries.

Our Bluffton truck accident lawyers possess a wealth of experience handling a wide range of truck accident cases, including:

• Trucking Company Negligence: Truck accidents can be caused by various reasons, including poorly maintained vehicles, driver fatigue, overloaded trucks, and aggressive driving. Our attorneys will investigate the cause of the accident and hold the trucking company accountable if their negligence plays a role.
  • Brake failure: Faulty brakes on a heavy commercial vehicle can be catastrophic. Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure a truck’s braking system is functioning properly.
  • Tire blowouts: Worn or improperly inflated tires can cause a truck driver to lose control of the vehicle, especially on hot summer days in Bluffton.
  • Defective cargo securement: Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unbalanced and potentially leading to a rollover accident.
  • Malfunctioning lights and signals: Faulty turn signals, brake lights, or headlights can lead to misunderstandings and collisions, particularly at night.
• Driver Error: Truck drivers have a higher standard of care on the road due to the size and weight of their vehicles. Distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence of a truck driver can be grounds for a lawsuit.
  • Truck driver fatigue: Long hours on the road, demanding schedules, and inadequate sleep breaks can significantly impair a truck driver’s judgment and reaction time.
  • Distracted driving: Using cell phones, eating, or adjusting in-cabin controls can divert a truck driver’s attention away from the road for a crucial moment.
  • DUI of drugs or alcohol: Impaired driving is a serious offense that poses a grave danger to all motorists on the road.
  • Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit is a reckless act that significantly reduces a truck driver’s ability to stop safely, especially considering the extra stopping distance required for large vehicles.
  • Aggressive driving: Tailgating, erratic lane changes, and improper merging tactics can lead to devastating accidents.
• Improper Loading Practices: Improperly secured cargo on a truck can become dislodged, causing accidents or road hazards for other vehicles. Our attorneys will investigate if unsecured cargo contributed to your collision.
• Poor weather conditions: Rain, fog, and strong winds can drastically reduce visibility and make maneuvering a large truck more challenging. Truck drivers need to adjust their speed and driving behavior accordingly.
• Blind spots: Large trucks have extensive blind spots on both sides and at the rear of the vehicle. Car drivers should be aware of these blind spots and avoid lingering in them.
• Road hazards: Potholes, uneven pavement, and debris on the road can create hazardous situations for truck drivers, especially when swerving to avoid them can cause a collision with another vehicle.

Unique Challenges of Bluffton Truck Accidents

Bluffton presents some unique challenges when it comes to truck accidents. Here are some factors to consider:

• Increased Truck Traffic: Bluffton’s location near major transportation routes and industrial areas means a higher volume of truck traffic on local roads. This increases the chance of accidents, especially on highways like I-95 and US-278.
• Seasonal Fluctuations: Bluffton experiences a significant influx of tourists during peak season. This surge in traffic, coupled with unfamiliar drivers and increased congestion, can create a higher risk of accidents involving large trucks.
• Rural Roads: While Bluffton boasts beautiful scenery, some rural roads may lack designated truck lanes or proper shoulders, posing a safety hazard for smaller vehicles sharing the road with large trucks.

These factors highlight the importance of experienced legal representation after a Bluffton truck accident. Our Bluffton truck accident lawyers understand the local landscape and can utilize their knowledge to build a strong case on your behalf.

Crucial Evidence to Gather After a Bluffton Truck Accident

1. Scene Photographs

• Capture photos of the entire accident scene, including the damage to both the truck and your vehicle, from various angles.
• Photograph any skid marks, debris on the road, traffic signals, and weather conditions (if relevant).
• If there were any injuries, take pictures of them only with the injured person’s consent and once they have received medical attention.

2. Accident Report and Driver Information

• Obtain a copy of the police accident report from the responding officer. This document will detail the officer’s observations, weather conditions, and preliminary findings on the cause of the accident.
• Collect the names, contact information, and driver’s license numbers of all parties involved in the accident, including the truck driver and any witnesses.

3. Witness Statements

• If there were witnesses to the accident, gather their contact information and request a written statement detailing their observations of the events leading up to the collision.
• Witness statements can be invaluable in corroborating your version of events and establishing fault.

4. Your Medical Records

• Seek medical attention immediately after the accident, regardless of the severity of your injuries.
• Maintain copies of all medical bills, doctor’s reports, and any diagnostic test results related to your injuries. This documentation establishes a clear link between the accident and the damages you sustained.

5. Truck Driver and Trucking Company Information

• Note down the name of the trucking company and the Department of Transportation (DOT) number displayed on the truck.
• This information will help identify the appropriate parties for your claim.
• Important Note: Avoid engaging in discussions of fault with the truck driver or their employer at the scene.

6. Traffic Camera Footage (if available)

• If the accident occurred near an intersection with a traffic camera, the footage could be crucial evidence. Here’s what you can do:
  • Check for Cameras: Look around the accident scene for traffic cameras. They’re often mounted on traffic lights or poles at intersections.
  • Request the Footage: Contact the local authorities and inquire about obtaining a copy of the footage. Be prepared to provide details like the date, time, and location of the accident.

Common Injuries Sustained in Bluffton Truck Accidents

Collisions involving massive commercial vehicles can be catastrophic, leaving victims with devastating injuries and a long road to recovery. Here’s a look at some of the most common injuries sustained in Bluffton truck accidents:

1. Head and Brain Injuries

The sheer force of a truck accident can cause serious head trauma. These injuries can range from mild concussions to life-threatening brain injuries such as:

• Concussions: These are mild traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) that can cause headaches, dizziness, memory problems, and difficulty concentrating. While most concussions heal over time, some can have long-term effects.
• Skull Fractures: These can range from minor cracks to severe breaks, and may require surgery and extensive recovery.
• Hemorrhages (bleeding): Bleeding within the skull can cause life-threatening complications and requires immediate medical attention.

2. Spinal Cord Injuries

The delicate spinal cord is particularly vulnerable in truck accidents. Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, permanently impacting mobility and quality of life. Spinal cord injuries can also lead to chronic pain, loss of bladder and bowel control, and other serious complications.

3. Neck and Back Injuries

The sudden impact of a truck accident can cause whiplash, a soft tissue injury to the neck that results in pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. More severe injuries can involve herniated discs, spinal fractures, and nerve damage, leading to chronic pain and limitations.

4. Broken Bones

The force of the collision can cause fractures in any bone, with legs, arms, and ribs being particularly at risk. Broken bones can require surgery, casting, and extensive physical therapy to heal properly.

5. Internal Injuries

Internal bleeding and organ damage can be difficult to diagnose after a truck accident. These injuries can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. Common internal injuries sustained in truck accidents include damage to the lungs, spleen, liver, and kidneys.

6. Amputations

In the most severe truck accidents, amputation of limbs may occur. This life-altering injury requires extensive medical care, prosthetics, and rehabilitation. The emotional and psychological impact of amputation can be significant.

7. Psychological Trauma

The trauma of a truck accident can have a lasting psychological impact. Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are common after such a life-altering event.

Financial Relief After a Bluffton Big Rig Accident

We understand the importance of securing financial relief to help you heal and rebuild your life. Here’s a breakdown of potential avenues for financial compensation after a Bluffton big rig accident:

1. Compensation Through Insurance

• Your car insurance: Most car insurance policies offer Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which can help cover medical expenses regardless of who is at fault in the accident. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can also provide compensation if the at-fault driver doesn’t have adequate insurance or is entirely uninsured.
• The truck driver’s insurance: The truck driver’s insurance policy should cover your damages if they were the at-fault party. This compensation can include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.

2. Personal Injury Lawsuit

If the insurance settlements offered are insufficient or the at-fault party is uninsured, filing a personal injury lawsuit may be necessary. Here are the potential types of damages you can recover through a lawsuit:

• Medical Expenses: This covers everything from past hospital bills to future physical therapy and rehabilitation costs, ensuring you receive the care you need to recover.
• Lost Wages: Missed work due to your injuries can cause financial hardship. You can be compensated for lost income and any potential future decrease in your earning capacity if your injuries affect your ability to work.
• Pain and Suffering: The physical pain and emotional distress you’ve endured shouldn’t go unaddressed. This category encompasses physical discomfort, scarring, disfigurement, and emotional trauma caused by the accident.
• Property Damage: If your vehicle or other property was damaged in the accident, you can seek compensation for repairs or replacements.

3. Workers’ Compensation (if applicable)

If your big rig accident occurred while you were on the job, you might be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and disability benefits, depending on the severity of your injuries.

Vicarious Liability in a Bluffton Truck Accident Claim

A Bluffton truck accident can be devastating. Serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and lost wages can leave you feeling overwhelmed. While the truck driver may seem like the obvious party at fault, South Carolina law allows you to hold the trucking company liable for their driver’s actions under the principle of vicarious liability.

Here at the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm, our Bluffton truck accident attorneys will explain what vicarious liability means and how it can help you recover compensation for your injuries.

Can a Trucking Company Be Held Responsible for Their Employee’s Accident?

Yes, in certain circumstances, a trucking company can be held responsible for the actions of its truck driver through vicarious liability. This legal principle states that an employer can be held liable for the negligent acts or omissions of their employee while the employee is acting within the scope of their employment.

In the context of a Bluffton truck accident, this means that if the truck driver was on the job and their negligence caused the accident, the trucking company can be held financially responsible for the damages you suffered.

Here are some examples of how a truck driver’s actions might be considered within the scope of their employment:

• Driving the truck while making deliveries or transporting cargo.
• Performing vehicle maintenance tasks as part of their job duties.
• Running errands for the trucking company while on the clock.

However, there are situations where vicarious liability might not apply. For instance, if the truck driver was using the company vehicle for personal reasons and not for work-related purposes, the trucking company might not be held liable.

Negligent Hiring – Holding the Trucking Company Accountable for Putting a Dangerous Driver on the Road

Vicarious liability isn’t the only way to hold a trucking company accountable for a Bluffton truck accident. Another legal theory known as negligent hiring can also come into play.

Negligent hiring occurs when a trucking company fails to exercise reasonable care in the hiring process of a truck driver. This can include:

• Failing to conduct thorough background checks: This includes checking for past driving violations, accidents, or criminal history.
• Neglecting to verify a driver’s license qualifications and certifications.
• Hiring a driver with a known history of substance abuse or reckless driving.

If a Bluffton truck accident is caused by a driver the trucking company negligently hired, and their negligent hiring practices contributed to the accident, the company can be held liable for the damages.

Proving Negligent Hiring

Demonstrating that a trucking company negligently hired a driver requires evidence. Here’s what our Bluffton truck accident attorneys will look for:

• The driver’s employment records: This can reveal any red flags missed during the hiring process.
• The trucking company’s hiring policies and procedures: These documents will establish the standard of care expected during driver selection.
• Any past complaints or incidents involving the driver: A history of reckless driving behavior can strengthen your case.

Our Bluffton Truck Accident Law Firm Is Your Trusted Advocate After a Truck Accident

The idyllic charm of Bluffton can be shattered in an instant by a collision with a massive big rig. These devastating accidents can leave victims with life-altering injuries, overwhelming medical bills, and a sense of uncertainty about the future.

Here at the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm, we understand the unique challenges associated with Bluffton truck accidents. Our dedicated team of experienced attorneys possesses the knowledge and resources to fight for your rights and hold the at-fault parties accountable.

We are committed to providing you with:

• Free Consultation: Finances shouldn’t prevent you from getting help. Our free consultation allows you to discuss your case, ask questions, and make informed decisions. There’s no obligation to hire us.
• Meticulous Investigation: Our team digs deep. We’ll gather evidence (police reports, driver logs, maintenance records, witness statements) and analyze federal trucking regulations to identify any negligence that caused your accident.
• Maximum Compensation: Insurance companies for trucking often offer low settlements. Our aggressive negotiators fight for the full compensation you deserve, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
• Trial Ready, Client Focused: We prefer negotiation, but we’re prepared to go to court if needed. Our experienced attorneys have a successful track record in complex truck accident litigation.
• Compassionate Support: You’re not alone. Our team offers unwavering support and guidance throughout the entire legal process.

When you choose the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm to represent you after a Bluffton truck accident, you’re not just hiring legal counsel; you’re gaining a team of dedicated advocates who will fight for your best interests.

Bluffton Truck Accident FAQs

While understanding general truck accident laws is important, here are some unique questions specific to Bluffton, South Carolina, that you might not have considered:

Does Bluffton Have Any Ordinances Regarding Truck Noise Levels?

Many Bluffton residents enjoy the peace and quiet of the area. While there are no South Carolina state regulations specifically for truck noise, Bluffton has its noise ordinance. This ordinance sets noise level limitations for different zones within the town. If a truck accident involved a violation of Bluffton’s noise ordinance, it could strengthen your case by demonstrating the truck driver’s disregard for local regulations.

What if My Bluffton Truck Accident Happened on Hilton Head Island?

Hilton Head Island, though geographically close, has a separate jurisdiction from Bluffton. If your truck accident occurred on the island, the laws of Hilton Head would apply. A Bluffton truck accident attorney familiar with the nuances of both Bluffton and Hilton Head Island legalities can ensure your case is handled appropriately.

Can I Be Fined for Not Moving My Vehicle After a Minor Bluffton Truck Accident?

South Carolina law requires drivers involved in a non-injury accident to remove their vehicles from the travel lane if possible, to avoid further congestion. However, if your Bluffton truck accident resulted in any injuries, you should not attempt to move your vehicle until emergency responders arrive and the scene is deemed safe. Prioritize your safety and the safety of others over potential traffic violations.

How Do Bicycle Lane Laws in Bluffton Apply to Truck Accidents?

Bluffton, like many South Carolina cities, has designated bicycle lanes on some roads. These lanes offer cyclists a dedicated space for safe travel. If a truck driver disregards bicycle lane markings and their negligence contributes to an accident, it can be a significant factor in your personal injury claim. A Bluffton truck accident attorney can analyze the specifics of your case and determine how bicycle lane laws apply.

What are the Deadlines for Filing a Bluffton Truck Accident Lawsuit?

South Carolina has a statute of limitations of three years for filing a personal injury lawsuit after an accident. This means you generally have three years from the date of the accident to initiate legal action. However, it’s crucial to consult with a Bluffton truck accident attorney as soon as possible after the accident. This allows them to begin investigating the case promptly and ensure you don’t miss any critical deadlines.

What if My Car is Parked on the Street and Gets Hit by a Truck in Bluffton?

South Carolina follows “unattended vehicle” laws. This means that parked cars are generally expected to be safe from foreseeable dangers. If your parked car is struck by a truck due to the truck driver’s negligence (e.g., distracted driving, speeding), you can likely file a claim against the truck driver’s insurance company for property damage.

What if My Bluffton Truck Accident Occurred on a Private Road with a Delivery Truck?

South Carolina law differentiates between public roads and private property accidents. If your accident occurred on private property, like a shopping center parking lot, the property owner’s insurance might be involved, depending on the circumstances.

Remember, Ali Awad, also known as the CEO Lawyer, is the founder and managing attorney of one of the fastest-growing law firms in the United States. Ali has over one million followers on social media who come to him for personal injury advice of all types.

The CEO Lawyer’s team of experienced attorneys has handled cases just like yours in Bluffton and surrounding areas and boasts a success rate exceeding 99.5%. Don’t hesitate to contact us today at (864) 664-3865 or visit our website for a free consultation. We’ll fight for the compensation you deserve.