Omaha Truck Accident Attorney
Legally Reviewed By: Robert M. Knowles
Attorney & Partner At Knowles Law Firm
When a commercial vehicle hits a passenger vehicle on Omaha’s busy highways, the devastation can be life-altering in an instant. The size and weight difference between an 80,000-pound semi-truck and a typical car creates a collision force that often results in catastrophic injuries, extensive property damage, and tragic fatalities that leave families forever changed.
At Knowles Law Firm, our experienced truck accident attorneys understand the complex legal landscape surrounding commercial vehicle accidents in Nebraska. With 55 years of combined experience and a track record of securing multi-million dollar settlements for our clients, we provide the skilled representation needed to hold trucking companies and negligent motorists accountable for their actions.
Understanding Commercial Truck Accidents in Omaha
Commercial truck accidents differ significantly from typical car accidents due to their complexity and severity. These collisions often involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, and vehicle manufacturers. Given the considerable difference in size and weight between commercial trucks and vehicles, injuries sustained in such accidents are frequently catastrophic.
In Nebraska, commercial vehicles must comply with strict federal and state regulations overseeing driver qualifications, hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and cargo loading. When these regulations are violated, the results can be deadly. Our attorneys investigate every aspect of your truck accident case to determine all potentially liable parties and sources of compensation.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Several factors contribute to truck accidents on Omaha roads and highways:
- Driver fatigue from exceeding federal hours of service regulations
- Distracted driving, including texting, eating, or using electronic devices while driving
- Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications
- Insufficient training of commercial drivers by trucking companies
- Poor vehicle maintenance leading to brake failures, tire blowouts, or mechanical malfunctions
- Improper cargo loading causes trucks to become unstable or cargo to shift during transport
Understanding these causes helps our legal team build a strong case for maximum compensation.
Federal Regulations and Liability
Commercial trucking is heavily regulated by federal agencies, including the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations cover driver licensing, vehicle inspections, maintenance records, and hours of service limits. When trucking companies or drivers violate these regulations and cause accidents, they may be held liable for resulting damages.
Our attorneys are experienced and knowledgeable in federal trucking regulations. We use any violations of these rules as proof of negligence in your case. We examine logbooks, electronic data recorders, maintenance records, and other critical evidence to prove liability and secure the compensation you deserve.
Truck Accident Case Results Won for Former Clients
Truck accident with traumatic brain injury and multiple orthopedic injuries
Truck accident & traumatic brain injury
Truck accident
Truck accident & wrongful death
Truck accident
Truck accident & wrongful death
What is the Importance of Evidence in Truck Accident Cases?
Building a successful truck accident case requires comprehensive evidence collection and preservation. Unlike typical car accidents, truck accident cases involve sophisticated electronic data systems and extensive documentation requirements that must be secured quickly before evidence is lost or destroyed.
Critical evidence in truck accident cases includes electronic data from various vehicle systems, including event data recorders, engine control modules, and airbag control modules that capture critical information about the speed, braking, and other details at the time of the accident. DOT logbooks, mechanical and repair records, dashcam footage, and witness statements all play vital roles in establishing liability.
Time-Sensitive Evidence Preservation
Many trucking companies have policies requiring the destruction of certain records after specific time periods. Our legal team acts quickly to send preservation notices to trucking companies, ensuring crucial evidence is not destroyed. We work with accident reconstruction experts and obtain police reports, medical records, and pictures to build the strongest possible case for our clients.
The sooner you contact our firm after a truck accident, the better we can preserve evidence and protect your legal rights. Waiting too long to seek legal representation results in the permanent loss of critical evidence needed to prove your case.
Why Choose Knowles Law Firm for Your Truck Accident Case
Knowles Law Firm brings a unique combination of experience, resources, and family dedication to every truck accident case we handle. As a family-owned law firm with 55 years of experience, we understand the hard work required to build and maintain our reputation in the Nebraska legal community.
Our experienced attorneys focus on complex cases, with the resources to challenge major trucking firms and their insurers. We’ve secured multi-million dollar settlements for commercial vehicle accident victims and will aggressively seek maximum compensation for your case.
We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless we obtain compensation for your injuries. This allows injured victims to access legal representation without upfront costs, ensuring that financial concerns do not prevent them from pursuing the justice they deserve.
Get Truck Accident Help from Knowles Law Firm Today
Following a truck accident in Omaha or elsewhere in Nebraska, securing experienced legal representation is essential to protecting your rights and seeking the highest possible compensation. These cases are intricate, demanding attorneys who are well-versed in federal regulations, commercial insurance policies, and the strategies trucking companies employ to limit their accountability.
At Knowles Law Firm, we have the experience and resources necessary to handle your truck accident case from investigation through settlement or trial. Our family of attorneys is committed to providing personalized attention to each client while fighting aggressively for the compensation you need to recover from your injuries and move forward with your life. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents in Omaha
What is the statute of limitations on truck accidents?
The statute of limitations for truck accidents typically allows individuals up to 4 years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit seeking damages. It’s important to act within this timeframe to preserve your right to pursue compensation.
How much are most truck accident settlements?
The amount of truck accident settlements varies greatly based on factors like the extent of injuries, property damage, liability, and negotiation strategies. Settlements can range widely, from thousands to potentially millions of dollars, especially in cases involving severe injuries or fatalities. For an accurate assessment of potential settlement amounts specific to your case, consult with our experienced attorney.
What should I do after a truck accident?
After a truck accident, prioritize your safety and seek medical attention for any injuries. Notify law enforcement to file a report and gather evidence such as photographs, witness statements, and the truck driver’s information. Contact your insurance company to report the accident, but avoid discussing fault until consulting with a qualified attorney who can guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.
How long does a truck accident lawsuit take?
The duration of a truck accident lawsuit can vary widely depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the extent of injuries and damages, and the court’s schedule. Generally, these lawsuits can take anywhere from several months to several years to resolve, with some cases settling out of court and others proceeding to trial. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney can provide a clearer timeline based on the specifics of your situation.
About Our Attorney
Robert M. Knowles
Attorney & Partner at Knowles Law Firm
Robert has tried cases in both state and federal courts and was selected as one of the top 100 litigation lawyers in Nebraska for 2014 by the American Society of Legal Advocates. Less than 1.5 percent of lawyers nationally are selected for this recognition. He is rated AV by Martindale-Hubbell which is the highest rating an attorney can obtain. He was also selected by Martindale-Hubbell as a 2019 Top Rated Lawyer.