Delivery vans, tractor-trailers, and box trucks are necessary to move people and goods within Lafayette, across the state, and beyond. However, these vehicles’ necessity does not mean they pose no risk to others. Cargo truck accidents in Lafayette, LA, can leave innocent drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and others with severe injuries.
Victims facing traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and other harm after a collision with a cargo truck need the assistance of an experienced Lafayette truck accident lawyer. Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers has the experience and resources necessary to achieve justice for these individuals.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a cargo truck wreck, contact our Lafayette personal injury attorneys at (337) 473-2991 to schedule a free consultation.
How Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Cargo Truck Accident in Lafayette, LA
Any motor vehicle accident in Lafayette, Louisiana, is subject to the state’s “at-fault” laws. These laws state that anyone whose negligent behavior caused a wreck owes compensation to anyone hurt in the crash.
Proving fault in accidents involving cargo trucks can be difficult, so turn to our Lafayette truck accident attorneys for help with:
- Identifying the individuals or businesses whose carelessness contributed to your wreck
- Gathering medical records, invoices, reports, and other evidence you need to prove fault and the extent of your injuries
- Calculating the appropriate amount of damages you should seek through your claim
- Responding to requests for information from insurance representatives, adjusters, law enforcement officers, and other attorneys
- Negotiating a fair settlement or representing your interests in court
Our firm has recovered millions of dollars in compensation through settlements and verdicts for our injured clients. Contact us to discuss your needs and questions with an experienced and caring Lafayette personal injury lawyer.
How Many Louisiana Traffic Crashes Involve Cargo Trucks?
In 2024, over 3,000 traffic accidents in Louisiana involved a cargo van, while over 500 involved a truck other than a tractor-trailer. These totals represented just a small fraction of the over 260,000 motor vehicle accidents reported that year across the state.
Common Causes of Cargo Truck Wrecks in Lafayette
Every traffic accident is unique, including those involving cargo trucks. However, when one of these large vehicles causes a crash, certain factors most often lead to the wrecks.
Driver Inexperience
There are several classifications of cargo trucks, and not all of them require a commercial driver’s license to operate. Drivers who are used to operating small passenger cars may have trouble safely controlling a large cargo truck, especially at highway speeds or when navigating sharp corners. This lack of experience can lead to needless accidents.
Improper Loading or Securing of Cargo
If the cargo is loaded carelessly, it can also increase the likelihood of a crash. Cargo that tumbles over or slides around during transit can suddenly make the cargo truck uncontrollable. It can also tip over and crush nearby passenger cars, causing serious or fatal injuries.
Tire Blowouts
Like 18-wheelers and other larger commercial vehicles, many cargo trucks have large tires to support their loads. If these tires are underinflated or not regularly inspected, they can explode, especially if the truck travels at highway speeds. This event is known as a blowout, and it can cause even experienced commercial drivers to lose control of the vehicle.
The Complexities of Lafayette Truck Accidents
Unlike crashes involving passenger cars, wrecks involving cargo trucks can be more complicated than they first appear. If the truck’s driver is employed, the trucking company has a strong incentive to fight your claim and attempt to settle for as little as possible. Injured victims who try to handle their claims alone can find themselves at a disadvantage in negotiations.
Secondly, these claims can have multiple responsible parties. Identifying all those whose actions played a role in the accident and deciding who to sue can be confusing for victims representing themselves.
Some of the potentially liable parties include:
- Truck driver
- The driver’s employer
- Business or others who loaded the cargo truck improperly
- Another motorist who contributed to the accident
- A mechanic or repair shop responsible for inspecting the truck and keeping it in good condition
Each of these individuals and businesses will likely have an insurance policy that provides varying amounts of benefits. Having a skilled advocate on your side can help you overcome these challenges and expedite the filing and resolution of your claim.
Contact Our Lafayette Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
You do not have to fight for your rights and the compensation you need by yourself. At Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers, we are ready and equipped to protect your interests and pursue compensation on your behalf.
Schedule a free, no-cost case review with our Lafayette truck accident lawyers today. Allow us to go over your claim and potential damages you might recover, so you can make an informed decision about how to move forward after your cargo truck accident.
