Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

Truck accidents often involve significant forces, leading to the potential for traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Even with advancements in vehicle safety technology, the sheer size and weight of trucks can result in violent collisions. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, impacting cognitive functions, memory, and overall quality of life. Seeking immediate medical attention is vital, as TBIs may not manifest symptoms immediately after an accident.

Spinal Cord Injuries

The spine is particularly vulnerable in truck accidents, given the impact forces involved. Spinal cord injuries can lead to paralysis, affecting mobility and independence. Victims may face a lifetime of medical challenges and extensive rehabilitation. The financial burden of ongoing medical care and adaptive equipment can be overwhelming, making it crucial for victims to seek legal guidance to secure compensation for their losses.

Bone Fractures and Orthopedic Injuries

Truck accidents often result in high-velocity collisions, causing bone fractures and orthopedic injuries. From broken limbs to fractures in the spine or pelvis, the range of orthopedic injuries can be extensive. The recovery process may involve surgeries, physical therapy, and long periods of rehabilitation. Victims may experience chronic pain and limited mobility, impacting their ability to work and enjoy daily activities

Internal Injuries

The internal organs of the human body are susceptible to damage in a truck accident. The force of impact can lead to injuries such as organ perforation, internal bleeding, or damage to vital organs. Internal injuries may not always be immediately apparent, underscoring the importance of thorough medical evaluations following a truck accident. Identifying and treating internal injuries promptly is crucial for a victim’s overall health and well-being.

Whiplash and Neck Injuries

Whiplash is a common injury in any motor vehicle accident, and truck accidents are no exception. The sudden jerking motion upon impact can cause strain and damage to the neck’s soft tissues. Symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and even cognitive issues. While whiplash is often considered a less severe injury, it can still have a significant impact on a person’s daily life and may require medical treatment and rehabilitation.

Psychological Trauma

The aftermath of a truck accident can lead to psychological trauma for the victims. Anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health issues can manifest as a result of the traumatic experience. Recognizing and addressing these psychological effects is essential for a comprehensive recovery. Legal professionals experienced in truck accident cases understand the importance of accounting for both physical and mental health challenges when pursuing compensation.

Navigating the Legal Landscape in Colorado Springs

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a truck accident in Colorado Springs, navigating the legal landscape becomes paramount. Understanding the specific requirements for filing a personal injury claim in Colorado is crucial for building a strong case.

Statute of Limitations

In Colorado, there is a statute of limitations that dictates the time frame within which a personal injury lawsuit must be filed. For truck accidents, victims generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. It is essential to initiate legal proceedings promptly to preserve your right to compensation.

Comparative Negligence

Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence system, meaning that the compensation a victim receives may be reduced if they are found partially at fault for the accident. Understanding how this system works is vital for building a case that withstands legal scrutiny. Legal professionals can help gather evidence to establish liability and minimize any potential impact of comparative negligence on the compensation awarded.

Insurance Requirements

Colorado law requires all motor vehicle operators, including commercial truck drivers, to carry liability insurance. Victims injured in truck accidents can seek compensation through the at-fault party’s insurance. However, insurance companies often prioritize their interests, making it essential to have legal representation to negotiate fair settlements or pursue legal action when necessary.

Documentation and Evidence

Building a strong personal injury case requires thorough documentation and evidence gathering. This includes collecting accident reports, medical records, witness statements, and any other relevant evidence. Working with experienced legal professionals ensures that no crucial piece of evidence is overlooked, strengthening your case and increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

Truck accidents in Colorado Springs can have devastating consequences, leading to a range of injuries with long-term effects. Navigating the legal aftermath of such accidents requires a deep understanding of both the physical and legal aspects involved. Seeking prompt medical attention and consulting with experienced personal injury attorneys at The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., can make a significant difference in the trajectory of your recovery.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of a truck accident in Colorado Springs, do not hesitate to reach out to our dedicated legal team. We are committed to advocating for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. Remember, time is of the essence in legal matters, so act swiftly to protect your interests. The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., is here to guide you through the complexities of Colorado’s legal system and help you rebuild your life after a traumatic truck accident.

The post Injuries Commonly Sustained in Colorado Springs, CO Truck Accidents appeared first on Colorado Springs Attorneys.

In the vast and picturesque landscape of El Paso County, CO, the roads are bustling with various vehicles, including commercial trucks that play a crucial role in the local economy. However, with the increasing presence of these large vehicles on the roads, the likelihood of truck accidents has also risen. When a truck accident occurs, the aftermath is often devastating, leading to severe injuries, property damage, and legal complexities. Understanding how truck accident investigations work in El Paso County is essential for those involved in such incidents.

Initial Steps in a Truck Accident Investigation

When a truck accident takes place in El Paso County, the investigation process begins promptly to determine the cause and establish liability. The first responders, typically law enforcement and emergency medical services, play a pivotal role in documenting the scene. They collect evidence such as photographs, witness statements, and initial assessments of damages. The goal is to create a comprehensive overview that will aid in the subsequent investigation.

Collaboration with Relevant Authorities

Truck accident investigations in El Paso County involve collaboration among various authorities, including local law enforcement, the Colorado State Patrol, and specialized accident reconstruction teams. These agencies work together to piece together the sequence of events leading up to the accident. The aim is to uncover any violations of traffic laws, identify potential negligence, and ascertain if any criminal charges are warranted.

In-Depth Analysis of Truck Maintenance Records

A critical aspect of truck accident investigations in El Paso County is the examination of the involved truck’s maintenance records. This includes a thorough review of the truck’s service history, inspection reports, and any previous maintenance issues. Identifying neglected maintenance or faulty repairs can shed light on whether mechanical failure played a role in the accident, holding the trucking company or maintenance provider accountable.

Driver’s Qualifications and Training

The qualifications and training of the truck driver are integral components of the investigation process. Authorities scrutinize the driver’s credentials, including their commercial driver’s license (CDL), medical certifications, and any history of traffic violations. Evaluating the driver’s training records helps determine if they were adequately prepared to handle the specific challenges posed by operating a commercial truck on El Paso County roads.

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) and GPS Data

Modern technology has significantly impacted truck accident investigations. Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) installed in commercial trucks track driving hours and provide valuable data about a driver’s behavior leading up to an accident. Additionally, GPS data can be analyzed to reconstruct the route taken and assess adherence to designated roads and speed limits. These electronic records serve as crucial evidence in determining liability.

Cargo Inspection and Securement Analysis

In many truck accidents, the cargo being transported plays a role in the severity of the incident. Investigators in El Paso County meticulously inspected the cargo to ensure it was properly loaded, secured, and within the weight limits specified by regulations. Improper loading or insecure cargo can contribute to accidents, and identifying such issues is vital in establishing liability.

Weather and Road Conditions Assessment

El Paso County experiences diverse weather conditions throughout the year, ranging from sunny days to snowy winters. Truck accident investigations take into account the prevailing weather and road conditions at the time of the incident. This analysis helps determine whether adverse weather or poorly maintained roads played a role in the accident, contributing to a more accurate assessment of liability.

Post-Investigation Outcomes

Once the investigation process is complete, the findings can have significant implications for all parties involved. If the investigation reveals negligence or violations of regulations on the part of the truck driver, trucking company, or other entities, it can result in legal consequences. Penalties may include fines, license suspensions, and other punitive measures. Moreover, the outcomes of these investigations contribute to the development of safety regulations and policies aimed at preventing similar accidents in the future.

Preventive Measures and Public Awareness

Truck accident investigations in El Paso County not only serve as a tool for accountability but also play a crucial role in raising public awareness about road safety. By understanding the common causes of truck accidents, such as driver fatigue, inadequate maintenance, or improper cargo securement, both drivers and trucking companies can take preventive measures. Increased awareness contributes to a safer road environment for all motorists, minimizing the risk of future accidents.

Advancements in Safety Technology

As truck accident investigations evolve, so does the technology used to enhance road safety. The data collected from electronic logging devices, GPS systems, and other technological advancements not only aid in investigations but also drive improvements in safety standards. These advancements encourage the trucking industry to adopt practices that prioritize the well-being of drivers, passengers, and others on the road.

The Role of Legal Representation

For individuals who have experienced the aftermath of a truck accident in El Paso County, seeking legal representation is a crucial step in the recovery process. A skilled attorney can navigate the complexities of insurance claims, negotiate settlements, and, if necessary, pursue legal action on behalf of the injured party. Legal support ensures that victims receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.

Truck accident investigations in El Paso County are multifaceted, involving a comprehensive examination of various factors to establish the cause and assign liability. From initial scene documentation to in-depth analyses of maintenance records, driver qualifications, and electronic data, the process is meticulous and intricate. Understanding the complexities of these investigations is crucial for all parties involved.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident in El Paso County, it is imperative to seek legal guidance promptly. The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. is here to assist you in navigating the complexities of truck accident cases. Our experienced El Paso County truck accident lawyers are well-versed in Colorado’s laws and can provide the support and advocacy you need during this challenging time. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Your path to justice begins with The Bussey Law Firm, P.C.

The post How Truck Accident Investigations Work in El Paso County, CO appeared first on Colorado Springs Attorneys.

What Is Artificial Intelligence?

Artificial intelligence can be defined as intelligence demonstrated by machines as opposed to humans or animals. In this context, intelligence means perceiving, inferring, and synthesizing information. AI may also be described as the theory and development of computer systems that are able to perform tasks that would otherwise require human intelligence. Examples of such tasks include speech recognition, visual perception, translation between languages, and decision making.

How Is AI Being Used in the Trucking Industry?

Advanced technology in the trucking industry involves AI-powered dashcams and AI-based coaching designed to reduce high-risk driving behavior and help prevent accidents. It can be used to accomplish several purposes:

• Alerting the driver: AI technology has the capability of monitoring both the driver and the surrounding conditions in real time. It can send alerts that allow the driver to take early action to avoid accidents. For example, a collision avoidance system can alert the driver with an alarm when a big rig gets too close to the vehicle ahead. Cameras and sensors in the cab of the truck can detect unsafe driving behavior, triggering a prompt to the driver. AI technology can be used to coach truck drivers on dangerous driving behavior such as speeding, following too closely, making unsafe lane changes, or using a cell phone behind the wheel of a truck.
• Recording the driver’s actions: A dashcam in the truck can a record the driver, creating a safety profile that is available to the trucking company. This allows companies to rank their drivers based on how safely they drive and alerts them to potential problems so they can action before an accident happens. Drivers who are being watched and evaluated are more likely to be careful about following safety regulations.
• Preventing truck breakdowns: Predictive maintenance technology is now available to the trucking industry. Instead of performing maintenance and repairs at regular intervals or after a vehicle malfunctions, this technology allows trucking companies to perform maintenance when an algorithm predicts impending equipment failure. Predictive maintenance technology can not only reduce repair costs and maximize vehicle up time, but also help prevent breakdowns that can lead to deadly truck accidents.

What Are the Challenges Associated With AI Technology in Trucking?

In a recent study, researchers found that trucking fleets using AI-powered dashcams and frequent coaching had 22% fewer accidents and 56% fewer unsafe driving incidents, as reported on businesswire. Benefits notwithstanding, there may be challenges with implementing AI technology in the trucking industry. For some companies, the cost of implementation may be prohibitive. Other issues may include lack of standardization and privacy concerns.

What Is the Role of a Personal Injury Attorney With AI Technology?

AI technology can record data about the actions and driving behavior of the trucker and about the semi-truck itself. Our Colorado Springs truck accident lawyers can use that data to support a claim for compensation if you or your loved one has been seriously injured in a truck accident.

Attorney Timothy Bussey has been voted Top Attorney in Colorado Springs by Colorado Springs Style magazine for the past nine years in a row. Contact The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. at (719) 475-2555 to find out how we can help.

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What Is Involved In a NTSB Truck Accident Investigation?

When people are killed in a crash involving a large commercial truck, NTSB may be called in to investigate. The investigation process involves certain basic steps:

Initial Notification and Decision to Launch

Usually in the aftermath of a catastrophic truck accident, the first phase begins when NTSB is notified and decides to launch an investigation. If criminal activity is suspected, other agencies, such as the FBI or local law enforcement, may also be involved. NTSB’s focus in the investigation is solely on transportation safety and determining probable cause.

On-Scene Investigation and Fact Gathering

NTSB investigators collect information and data necessary to analyze the accident and determine probable cause. An investigator or investigative team travel to the scene of the crash and gather additional information as well from off-site sources such as maintenance records and personal interviews. NTSB has the authority and discretion to designate corporations or other organizations that can provide expertise as parties to the investigation.

Analysis of Findings and Report

Specialists with NTSB analyze the information that has been collected to arrive at a sequence of events and to determine what occurred that caused the accident. The investigative team prepares a draft report, which is presented to the modal office director for approval under delegated authority, or to the Board for adoption. When the report has been adopted, a final copy is prepared for public release. The report contains:

• Description of the accident
• Review of investigative analysis
• Determination of probable cause

Safety Recommendations

If the investigation revealed important safety issues, NTSB addresses them with safety recommendations, which may be directed to regulatory agencies, such as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), manufacturers, state and local jurisdictions, and other organizations involved in the specific area of transportation. After a multiple-fatality truck accident, for example, their recommendations may involve changes in regulations or best practices for the trucking industry.

What Types of Information Does NTSB Collect After a Severe Truck Accident?

When investigating a truck accident, the NTSB team will collect and analyze information about what led to the crash and how it occurred. Examples of data they gather may include:

• Truck driver’s logbook: This contains information about how far the driver has travelled and how many hours he or she has spent behind the wheel.
• Driver’s history: NTSB will look to see if the driver has a history of past accidents and whether they occurred because of negligence or impairment.
• Maintenance reports: Like drivers’ logbooks, maintenance reports often exist in virtual form. They provide information about how well the company maintained the vehicle.
• Load information: Investigators will evaluate what cargo the truck was carrying, how it was loaded, who loaded it, and any other factors related to the cargo that may have contributed to the crash. NTSB may also evaluate what impact the cargo could have on accident survivors, particularly after a tanker truck accident.

If you or your loved one has been seriously injured in a truck crash, it is important to speak with an experienced Colorado Springs truck accident lawyer as soon as possible, so critical evidence in your case can be preserved. At The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., we have achieved consistent success for our clients in and outside the courtroom. Contact us at (719) 475-2555 to get a top rated Colorado Springs truck accident attorney on your side.

The post The Role of the NTSB After a Truck Accident appeared first on Colorado Springs Attorneys.

Unfortunately, truck accidents are relatively standard in Colorado. While the number of trucks involved in fatal crashes in 2020 decreased by 4% from 2019, it’s still 33% higher than in 2011. In addition, the number of deaths caused by large truck crashes increased by 31% from 2011 to 2020.

Trucker fatigue is one of the most common causes of traffic accidents. Truckers are often on the road for long hours and can get very tired, especially when traveling long distances. Fatigued drivers are more likely to make mistakes on the road that can lead to fatal accidents.

Trucker fatigue is especially dangerous because truckers are often carrying large loads. If they make a mistake while driving, the consequences can be devastating and involve several other vehicles.

Unethical Trucking Company Practices

Some trucking companies are known to push their drivers to meet strict deadlines. Drivers start to feel rushed and stressed, becoming more prone to making mistakes. In addition, some companies may encourage drivers to take risks to make their deadline, putting other drivers in hazardous situations.

These risks include speeding, skipping breaks, and working long hours without proper rest. More than often, these practices are unfair to drivers and can create a dangerous work environment. These companies need to be held accountable for their actions, and drivers should be given the proper resources and support to stay safe on the job.

How Common Is Trucker Fatigue?

Due to unethical company practices, trucker fatigue is more common than most people realize. Alarmingly, some studies show that truck drivers sleep less than 5 hours a night. This contributes to 64% of truck drivers experiencing chronic fatigue and 27% of drivers having insomnia. More dangerously, reportedly, 18% of truck drivers have fallen asleep behind the wheel, contributing to the dangers on the road.

Trucking Accidents are More Dangerous

Trucking accidents are significantly more dangerous than car accidents for several reasons. Trucks are much larger and heavier than cars, so the impact of a collision is usually much more significant. They also have a higher center of gravity than cars, making them more likely to roll over in an accident. Additionally, these heavier vehicles have large blind spots, so the driver may not see a car in the next lane over. Most importantly, trucks take longer to stop than cars, so the truck driver may only be able to avoid an accident if they see it coming.

Liability After Trucking Accidents

A truck accident can be severe, especially when a driver falls asleep at the wheel. In such a case, it is crucial to determine who is liable for the accident. The truck driver may be held responsible if it can be proven that they were negligent in operating the vehicle. However, the trucking company may also be held liable if it can be shown that the company failed to maintain the vehicle properly or failed to provide the driver with adequate rest breaks. If the truck driver and the trucking company are found to be at fault, they may be jointly liable for the accident.

Contact a Lawyer After Your Trucking Accident

After you’ve been in a trucking accident, you must protect your rights by hiring an experienced lawyer. Insurance companies will often try to minimize your compensation, but a qualified attorney will fight for the full amount you’re owed. The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. can also help you navigate the legal process and ensure that all the paperwork is in order.

Don’t try to handle your trucking accident claim on your own. Contact a Colorado Springs truck accident attorney at the Bussey Law Firm, P.C. by calling (719) 475-2555 to schedule your appointment.

The post Why Truckers Fall Asleep at the Wheel appeared first on Colorado Springs Attorneys.

Trucking Companies Need to Hire Experienced Drivers

When driving downhill, proper brake usage is vital. Well-trained truckers follow specific braking guidelines while on the road and any misuse of the vehicle’s brakes could result in a dangerous situation.

Many trucking companies need help finding experienced drivers these days. The trucking industry often imposes predatory unfair restrictions on its drivers. It is partly because of this that a trucker shortage has emerged, putting trucking companies under more and more pressure to hire less experienced drivers. But with the traffic on the roads these days, it is more important than ever that trucking companies have drivers who know what they are doing. Inexperienced drivers are more likely to brake improperly or get into another type of accident.

Downhill Truck Braking

When truckers are driving on a downhill slope, they must use their brakes effectively. Here are some tips given to truckers who are learning the trade:

• Use your engine brake. This is the most crucial braking method when going downhill, and it will help keep your speed under control.
• Use your foot brake, but not too hard. You don’t want to lock up your wheels and lose control.
• Use your trailer brakes if you have them. This will help keep your rig stable.
• Keep your speed under control. The faster you go, the harder it will be to stop.
• Leave plenty of space between you and the vehicle in front of you. This will give you more time to stop if necessary.
• Be prepared for unexpected stops. If something happens and you have to stop suddenly, don’t panic. Just use your brakes and stay calm.

Hire a Lawyer After a Truck Accident

Liability in a truck accident can be complex. Multiple parties can be held liable, including the truck driver, the trucking company, and the manufacturer of the truck or its parts. In some cases, all of these parties may be held liable.

The truck driver may be held liable if it can be shown that they were negligent in operating the truck. The trucking company may be held responsible if it can be demonstrated that it failed to maintain the truck properly or train the driver correctly. The manufacturer of the truck or its parts may be held liable if it can be shown that the truck was defective. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you determine who may be held liable in your truck accident case and can help you recover the compensation you deserve.

A Colorado Springs truck accident lawyer can help you examine the facts of your specific case and determine who is liable. In some cases, multiple parties may be responsible, complicating matters further. The Bussey Law Firm, P.C.can help you through the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Call (719) 475-2555 to get a consultation.

The post How Incorrect Downhill Truck Braking Could Hurt Coloradans appeared first on Colorado Springs Attorneys.

Unsafe Driving Practices That Trucking Companies Pressure Their Drivers Into and Ways That They Cause Accidents

Although the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets out clear rules to ensure the safety of truckers and others on the road, trucking companies pressure their drivers into unsafe driving practices, leading to accidents on the road. Unsafe driving practices include:

Over-scheduling

Trucking companies often require their drivers to drive hundreds of miles each day, over long hours. This leads to driver fatigue, increasing the likelihood of a lack of focus and accidents.

Driver Error

Truck drivers are often at fault for causing accidents in Colorado. If a trucker disobeys relevant laws such as speeding, texting while driving, and drunk driving, they put others on the road at risk of an accident. For instance, if a trucker is behind schedule or needs to reach a destination before they are able to sleep, they may speed to arrive earlier or on time.

Improper Maintenance

Heavy duty trucks, including 18 wheelers, require thorough maintenance to ensure their safety on the road. If a mechanic does a poor job or the trucking company fails to ensure that proper care and maintenance is undertaken, this can lead to serious accidents and in some cases, fatalities. For instance, simple maintenance measures such as checking tire pressures, and brake pads can prevent many crashes.

How You Can Collect Evidence and Pursue Compensation

As a truck accident victim, it is essential that you collect as much information and evidence as possible to prove what occurred. This is because you’re responsible for proving someone else’s negligence has caused your accident.

If proof is absent, a trucking company could deny your claim. Trucks also have certain technology such as black boxes that track their data. By hiring a lawyer to investigate a trucking accident, you can ensure you have the evidence you need to make your claim and receive full and fair compensation.

How We Can Help

Navigating a truck accident when you’re a victim can be tricky. Depending on the evidence and the type of negligence shown by the truck driver and trucking company, you’ll be able to receive compensation.

It is crucial to get an experienced Colorado Springs truck accident attorney on your side throughout the whole process, so you can get the support and help you need. The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. has years of experience dealing with truck accidents. Get in touch today at (719) 475-2555.

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Staying Safe Around Trucks

You can help protect yourself by always being on the lookout for trucks when you are driving. Stay alert when you are around trucks and try to avoid them as much as possible when you are on the road. The following tips will help drivers stay safe:

• Watch out for blind spots. These are areas where a driver cannot see you. Trucks have large blind spots on all four sides that you want to avoid as much as possible. Be cautious whenever you pass a truck. It’s safer to pass them on the driver side because the blind spot on the passenger side extremely large.
• Don’t tailgate. Driving behind a truck can be dangerous because you have limited visibility, so you can’t see hazards as the develop down the road. When a truck stops suddenly, drivers can become caught underneath. Known as an underride accident collision, this in one of the most dangerous types of truck collisions for automobile drivers. Trucks have guardrails to prevent cars from underriding, but this safety feature occasionally fails to protect drivers.
• Avoid driving directly in front of trucks. Because truck have are so heavy, their stopping time is much longer than regular passenger vehicles. A normal passenger vehicle traveling at 65mph takes about 300 feet to stop, but a fully loaded truck requires over 500 feet.
• Anticipate wide turns. Trucks turn much more gradually than automobiles and they need more room. They often require two lanes to complete a turn, swinging left before they make a right turn. That’s why you always want to watch out for a truck’s turning signals and avoid trucks when they are turning. Also, make sure not to get stuck between a truck and the curb when they are making a right turn.
• Be predictable. Signal all lane changes in advance and allow other drivers time to react to lane changes and merges you choose to make.
• Be even more careful in bad weather. Rain, ice, fog, and snow reduce visibility and they increase stopping time for all vehicles. Slow down as much as you have to when driving in these conditions.

Common Truck Accident Injuries

The full weight of a semi-tractor and its cargo can be up to 80,000 lbs. That creates a tremendous amount of impact when a truck crashes into a regular passenger car. Truck collisions can be devastating for pedestrians and people on motorcycles who don’t have seatbelts and airbags to protect them. Common injuries and other consequences of truck accidents include:

• Spinal cord injuries
• Severe burns
• Head and brain injuries (TBI)
• Fractured bones
• Loss of Limb
• Back and neck injuries
• Organ damage
• Cuts and bruises
• Wrongful death

Have You Been Injured by a Negligent Truck Driver?

If you or a loved on has been hurt or killed in an accident caused by a truck driver, you will want to contact a Colorado Springs truck accident lawyer before you accept any offers from the insurance company. Insurance companies make their money by paying out as little in claims as possible. In many cases, they offer lowball settlements that won’t even cover the cost of your medical care.

Your personal injury attorney will investigate the cause of your accident to determine liability. Then they will file a claim to cover your cost of treatment, including emergency room service, ambulance transport, doctor’s office visits, physical therapy, loss of income, and more.

We’re Here to Help

At The Bussey Law Firm, P.C, we know how to take on the big insurance companies and win. We will fight to get you a fair settlement that will help you take control of you future and get your life back in order after an accident. Call (719) 475-2555 today to schedule you FREE consultation. We’re on your side.

The post How to Drive Safely Around Big Trucks appeared first on Colorado Springs Attorneys.

Conditions Under Which 18-Year-Olds Will Be Allowed to Drive Semi Trucks Across State Lines

• The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) will issue an exemption to the age restriction for every 18-year-old truck driver admitted to the program.
• Safety technology must be installed in all trucks used in the program. This technology will include automatic limits on speed set at 65 mph, automatic emergency braking, and forward-facing video cameras.
• Apprentice 18-year-old drivers will not be allowed to drive trucks hauling hazardous materials or more than one trailer.
• Drivers training apprentices must be at least 26 years of age and have at least five years of experience driving semi trucks, and two years with no citations or crashes.

Reservations of Highway Safety Advocates About the Program

• The Truck Safety Coalition has objected to the program, as reported by CNN. The coalition’s executive director called for the Transportation Secretary to demonstrate a genuine commitment to safety and use his authority to terminate the program after the first serious injury or fatality.
• The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) cited a University of Michigan study in which researchers found a 500% increase in injury crashes among truck drivers under the age of 21, as compared to drivers overall.
• The president of the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety is quoted as stating, “It makes no sense to put one of the most dangerous driving populations behind the wheel of 80,000 pound rigs.” She recommends dealing with the truck driver shortage by increasing pay, reducing driving hours, and making the job more appealing.

Why You Need a Colorado Truck Injury Attorney After a Serious Truck Accident

A collision between a huge semi tractor-trailer and a much smaller passenger vehicle is likely to cause serious, catastrophic, or fatal injuries to passenger vehicle occupants. Truck accidents are complex cases involving federal and state regulations and multiple potentially liable parties. Trucking companies and their insurers have teams of lawyers on their payroll ready to fight against your claim. If you have been seriously injured or lost a loved one in a crash caused by a negligent truck driver, your best chance of recovering full compensation is to have an experienced truck accident personal injury lawyer handling your case.

Why Choose Us?

At the Bussey Law Firm, P.C., we provide individualized representation for our personal injury clients. We have a history of success recovering compensation for people injured in commercial trucking accidents. Founding attorney Timothy Bussey has been named as Top Attorney in Colorado Springs by Colorado Springs Style Magazine for nine years in a row. He has been selected among the Top 10 Attorneys in Colorado by the American Institute of Personal Injury.

We can thoroughly investigate your truck accident to determine what caused the crash and who is liable and secure evidence to support your claim. Our Colorado Springs truck accident lawyer can assess the the full scope of your losses, negotiate with the insurance companies, demanding fair compensation, and fight for what you deserve in court, if necessary.

We offer a free initial consultation. Contact us at (719) 475-2555 to find out how we can help after a truck accident resulting in serious injury or death.

The post New Rule Allows 18-Year-Olds to Drive Trucks Across State Lines appeared first on Colorado Springs Attorneys.

There is no question that experience is a critical point in whether a driver can operate a commercial truck safely. Semi-trucks, tractor trailers, 18-wheelers, and big rigs – these vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 lbs. when fully loaded. They require a long distance to come to a complete stop, and any driver error can lead to a disaster, with innocent people sustaining serious or fatal injuries.

Driver Experience: Research Reveals the Truth.

A study conducted by Virginia Tech indicated that both age and driving experience play essential roles in driver safety, with experience revealed as the crucial point in driver safety. Drivers with less than one year of experience had higher crash rates, no matter their age. The first year a truck driver is on the road, operating a commercial vehicle, has proven to be the most dangerous for other drivers and passengers.

Truck Accidents in Colorado

Several well-traveled truck routes are through Colorado, including I-25, which passes through Colorado Springs, to areas east of the Rocky Mountains, including Denver, Pueblo, Fort Collins, and Greeley. The numbers of truck accidents in the state reflect several safety concerns, including the experience of the driver, and Colorado’s harsh weather conditions.

Many drivers, even though they have attended and completed truck operation training classes, are unfamiliar with how to manage a heavily-loaded semi when the roadway is icy, wet, or snowy. They may be operating a truck at the posted speed limit, which is too fast when weather conditions are dangerous. The numbers of truck accidents in Colorado, as issued by the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveal that 20 fatal truck accidents occurred in the most recently reported year, with 103 people suffering fatal injuries.

Types of Truck Accidents and Inexperienced Drivers

An inexperienced driver can be responsible for accidents of various types, including:

• Jackknife accidents
• Rollover accidents
• Rear-end accidents
• Unsafe lane changes
• Underrides
• Head-on collisions
• Side impact crashes
• Cargo-related crashes
• Weather-related accidents

Driving skills and experience matter. An inexperienced truck driver may drive in a negligent manner, including:

• Drunk or drug intoxicated driving
• Distracted driving
• Speeding
• Unsafe lane changes
• Unsafe merging
• Fatigued driving

Injuries and Wrongful Death Truck Accident Cases

A commercial truck accident most often causes harm to other drivers and their passengers. The injuries sustained are frequently life-changing or fatal, and many innocent people lose their lives simply by being in the wrong place at the wrong time. The first step in seeking justice and fair compensation is to connect with an attorney to manage the case – a lawyer with a reputation for excellence in personal injury law.

The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., and You.

Our legal team is committed to helping the injured seek justice and fair compensation. If your family has lost a loved one, a wrongful death claim or lawsuit can be filed. The first steps are identifying all liable parties, including the driver, trucking firm, or another party, and gathering and preserving all evidence to support the case. A full evaluation of the medical condition will be needed, and at our firm, we have access to medical experts, financial experts, and the range of professional resources required in truck accident cases.

Contact us today if you or a loved one was injured in a truck accident in Colorado at (719) 475-2555 for a free initial consultation.

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