Truck accidents can be devastating, causing severe injuries, tragic deaths, and significant financial losses. You may be entitled to compensation for your damages if you’ve been injured in a truck accident. An experienced Oklahoma truck accident lawyer with Penn Kestner & McEwen can help you navigate the legal process and hold the responsible parties accountable for their negligence. Please contact us online for a free consultation or call us at (800) 732-3070.

Here are some essential things that you should know about truck accidents in Oklahoma and how an attorney can help you recover your losses.

Oklahoma Truck Accident Statistics

There were 5,575 crashes on Oklahoma roads in 2021, resulting in 130 severe injuries and 99 deaths. Nearly 4,000 crashes involved two vehicles, severely injuring 83 people and causing 62 fatalities. Approximately 9% of Oklahoma truck accidents occurred due to the truck driver making an unsafe lane change, while authorities blamed 8% of wrecks on truckers driving at an unsafe speed.

What Causes Truck Accidents in Oklahoma?

Truck accidents can occur due to several different factors, including driver error, equipment failure, and poor road conditions. Some of the most common causes of truck accidents in Oklahoma include the following:

An experienced Penn Kestner& McEwen attorney can investigate the cause of your accident and determine who is liable for your injuries.

Common Injuries and Their Costs

Truck accidents can result in serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment and long-term care. Some of the most common injuries associated with truck accidents include:

The costs associated with these injuries can be substantial, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. You must hire a skilled truck accident attorney as soon as possible so they can help you calculate your damages and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Truck Accidents vs. Car Accidents

Truck accidents are different from car accidents in several critical ways. First, trucks are much larger and heavier than cars, which means they can cause more severe injuries and property damage. The forces of a truck accident on motorists and their passengers are typically much stronger than those that occur during a car wreck. The injuries are usually much worse as a result.

Second, the trucking industry is subject to various state and federal regulations that don’t apply to passenger vehicles. These regulations govern everything from driver qualifications to the maintenance of trucks and trailers. A skilled lawyer will understand these regulations and how they may impact your case.

Who’s Liable for My Truck Accident?

Determining liability in a truck accident can be a complicated process involving multiple parties, including the driver, the trucking company, and potentially even the truck manufacturer or its parts.

In general, the truck driver is often the first party to be considered liable for an accident. Suppose the driver was negligent in their actions, such as driving while under the influence, speeding, or failing to obey traffic laws. In that case, they might be held responsible for any damages that result from the accident.

However, the trucking company may also be liable for the accident if they were negligent in hiring, training, or supervising the driver or failed to maintain the truck properly. In some cases, the manufacturer of the truck or its parts may also be liable if a defect in the vehicle contributed to the accident.

Determining liability in a truck accident may require a thorough investigation and analysis of the circumstances. Please seek legal advice from an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the complexities of your case and ensure that your rights are protected.

Steps to Take After a Truck Accident

If you’ve suffered an injury in a truck accident, you should take several essential steps to ensure you protect not only your physical health but the health of your case as well. These include the following:

  • Seek medical attention: Make your safety and health your first priority. Get to a doctor as soon as possible, even if you’re not sure whether or not you’ve suffered a severe injury.
  • Contact law enforcement: Call the police and report the accident. Make sure to obtain a copy of the police report, as it can be valuable evidence in your case.
  • Document the accident scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including damage to your vehicle and any injuries you’ve sustained.
  • Get contact information: Obtain the contact information of any witnesses to the accident, as well as the truck driver and the trucking company.
  • Don’t speak to insurance adjusters: Insurance companies will likely contact you soon after the accident. Please don’t give them a recorded statement or sign any documents without first consulting with an experienced Oklahoma truck accident lawyer. Insurance adjusters may try to get you to settle quickly for a low amount, which may not fully compensate you for your injuries and losses.
  • Contact an attorney: An attorney can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights. They can advise you on the best course of action and work to negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.

Contact Penn Kestner & McEwen to Schedule a Free Case Evaluation

You need a lawyer if you’ve suffered an injury in a truck accident that wasn’t your fault. At Penn Kestner & McEwen, we have a proven track record of success in handling truck accident cases. We’ll do everything possible to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.

Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation. We’ll review your case, answer your questions and provide the legal guidance you need to move forward. Don’t wait – call Penn Kestner & McEwen today to get the help you need. You can get in touch by contacting us online or calling (800) 732-3070. We very much look forward to hearing from you.