Have you been injured in an 18-wheeler jackknife accident in Lafayette, Louisiana? Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers can help when you call (337) 473-2991. We offer a free consultation with a Lafayette truck accident lawyer, giving you the chance to understand your rights and explore the compensation you may be entitled to.
Jackknife truck crashes are among the most dangerous accidents on Louisiana’s highways. When a large commercial vehicle folds at a sharp angle, it can cause massive destruction and serious injuries. If you’ve been hurt in a jackknife accident in Lafayette, an experienced lawyer can fight to protect your interests and pursue financial recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Why Choose Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for Help After an Accident in Lafayette
At Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers, our truck accident lawyers bring decades of experience and a proven track record to every case we handle. Our team is dedicated to standing up for accident victims and helping them move forward with confidence.
Some of our key achievements include:
- Over 50 years of combined legal experience
- Tens of millions of dollars recovered for injured clients
- Deep knowledge of Louisiana’s trucking and accident laws
- Strong case strategies against powerful trucking companies
- Compassionate, client-focused representation from start to finish
When you need an experienced Lafayette personal injury attorney, it’s important to choose a team with both skill and dedication. If you’ve been injured in a crash in Lafayette, Louisiana, we are ready to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Call today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward recovery.
What Is My Jackknife Truck Accident Case Worth?
The value of your jackknife truck accident case depends on several factors. No two accidents are the same. The money you may receive will be based on your specific situation.
Key factors that affect case value include:
- How severe your injuries are and how they impact your daily life
- Medical expenses, both current and future treatment costs
- Lost wages and reduced ability to earn money
- How negligent the truck driver or the trucking company was
- Property damage to your vehicle and belongings
- Pain and suffering you experienced
Each case is unique. An experienced attorney can review these factors to determine your claim’s worth.
What Type of Damages Are Available?
Accident victims may be entitled to both economic and non-economic damages after a jackknife truck accident.
Economic damages cover your financial losses with specific dollar amounts. These include:
- Medical bills
- Hospital stays
- Surgery costs
- Rehabilitation expenses
- Lost wages from time off work
- Reduced future earning ability
- Property damage to your vehicle and belongings
Non-economic damages pay for losses that don’t have clear price tags. They may include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Understanding the full range of compensation available is an important step toward protecting your future and holding the responsible parties accountable.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire a Jackknife Truck Accident Lawyer?
Many accident victims worry about the cost of hiring an attorney after a serious crash. At Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay attorney fees unless we win your case. Under this arrangement, we advance all case expenses.
Can I Recover Money if I’m Being Blamed for a Jackknife Truck Accident in Louisiana?
Louisiana follows a pure comparative fault system, which means you can still recover compensation even if you are partially to blame for the accident. Under Louisiana Civil Code Article 2323, your damages will be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault.
For example, if you’re found 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you would still be entitled to recover $80,000. Even if you’re found more than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages, though your share will be reduced accordingly.
We’ll Fight To Recover Money for All of Your Jackknife Truck Accident Injuries
Jackknife truck accidents often cause severe injuries because of the massive size and weight of commercial vehicles. These crashes can result in life-threatening trauma that requires immediate medical attention.
Common injuries from jackknife accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries that cause cognitive problems
- Spinal cord injuries that may result in paralysis
- Broken bones requiring multiple surgeries
- Internal injuries to organs like the liver and kidneys
- Severe burns if the fuel ignites during the crash
- Emotional trauma, including PTSD and anxiety
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and long-term care.
What Causes Most Jackknife Truck Accidents in Lafayette, Louisiana?
Understanding the common causes of jackknife accidents helps identify who may be liable for your injuries. Driver error accounts for many of these dangerous crashes. Mechanical failures and road conditions also play important roles.
Common causes of jackknife truck accidents include:
- Excessive speed for road conditions
- Sudden braking or steering that causes trailers to swing out of control
- Improper braking techniques
- Faulty brake systems and worn tires
- Improper trailer loading
- Poor weather conditions like rain, ice, or high winds
- Driver fatigue
- Equipment maintenance issues
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, brake problems cause about 29% of large truck crashes. Trucking companies have a legal obligation to properly maintain their vehicles and ensure drivers get adequate rest.
How Long Do I Have To File a Lawsuit After a Jackknife Truck Accident in Louisiana?
Louisiana law typically gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. If you miss this deadline, you will likely lose your right to seek compensation through the legal system. Note that this deadline applies to lawsuits. Insurance claims may have different notice requirements, so acting quickly is important.
To ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines, contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
Contact Our Lafayette Jackknife Truck Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been hurt in a jackknife truck accident in Lafayette, Louisiana, don’t face the legal process alone. Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers has the experience and resources to fight for the money you deserve. Our Lafayette jackknife truck accident lawyer team understands the impact these accidents can have on victims and their families.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation. Under Louisiana law, time is limited, so don’t delay seeking the legal help you need after a jackknife truck accident.
