If you have lost a loved one in a trucking accident caused by someone else, the grief can be overwhelming. Dealing with legalities might be the last thing on your mind. However, it is essential to take swift action to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve for your losses. 

At Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer, our compassionate team of professionals is here to take care of every aspect of your case. Call us today or contact us online to learn more about how we can help you.

Fatal Truck Accident Statistics

Trucking accidents are a tragically common occurrence in the United States. In a recent year, nearly 5,000 people died in large truck crashes – a 17 percent increase from the year before. Most of these fatalities were occupants of cars and other passenger vehicles, accounting for 68 percent of deaths. These statistics prove the severe threat posed by semi-trucks to other road users. 

In two-vehicle crashes involving a passenger vehicle and a large truck, 97 percent of the vehicle occupants who lost their lives were in the passenger vehicles. The data underscores the grave danger of semi-truck accidents and the urgent need for a dedicated semi-truck accident lawyer to represent surviving family members’ interests.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can stem from many factors, with some causes more prevalent than others:

  • Speeding increases the chance of an accident as it lengthens the stopping distance of large trucks and reduces the driver’s control over the vehicle. 
  • Distracted driving, such as texting or eating while driving, takes the driver’s focus off the road and can lead to severe accidents.
  • Driving under the influence is not only illegal, but it can also cause drivers to feel overly confident when road hazards appear.
  • Driver fatigue also plays a significant role in causing truck accidents. Long hours on the road can lead to exhaustion, reducing a driver’s reaction time and ability to make safe driving decisions. Federal regulations limit the hours a truck driver can legally operate to reduce this risk. But violations of these rules still occur.
  • Improper loading of cargo can lead to devastating accidents. If a truck carries an imbalanced load or exceeds the legal weight limit, it can cause the truck to tip over or make it harder for the driver to control – especially during sudden turns or stops. Dump truck accidents are particularly susceptible to this issue due to their cargo.
  • Mechanical failures are another common cause of truck accidents. This includes brake failures, tire blowouts, and steering system malfunctions. Regular maintenance can prevent many of these issues, but neglecting vehicle upkeep can lead to accidents.
  • Poor weather conditions can also contribute to truck accidents. Slippery roads from rain or snow, poor visibility due to fog, or high winds can all make driving more dangerous – especially for large vehicles like trucks.

If you have lost a loved one in a trucking accident, a skilled truck accident law firm can help determine the cause of the accident and establish liability. The experienced team at Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident and work to hold all responsible parties accountable for their negligence.

How Is Wrongful Death Defined in Arizona?

Arizona law defines wrongful death as resulting from someone else’s wrongful actions, negligence, or inaction. This broad definition includes scenarios where the death is the result of a truck accident, as long as the truck driver’s or company’s negligence or misconduct can be proven.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Arizona?

Wrongful death claims can be filed by the victim’s spouse, child, parent, or guardian. The victim’s personal representative may also file a claim on behalf of these parties or the estate. If you are unsure whether you are eligible to file a claim, a commercial trucking accident lawyer can provide advice and guidance.

What Compensation Can You Recover Through a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

At Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer, our dedicated team strives relentlessly to demand the maximum compensation possible for your loss. When pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit in the aftermath of a trucking accident, survivors can seek various forms of compensation for the losses they have endured. These include:

  • Funeral and burial expenses – You can claim the costs associated with the funeral and burial of your loved one.
  • Medical bills – If the accident led to medical expenses, such as emergency care or ongoing treatments, you have the right to seek reimbursement for these costs.
  • Lost wages and benefits – You can seek compensation for the income and benefits your loved one would have earned if they had not tragically passed.
  • Loss of companionship and guidance – You may obtain compensation for the emotional distress resulting from the lack of your loved one’s presence and influence in your life.
  • Loss of household services – If your loved one used to perform tasks or services around the house, such as childcare or maintenance, you can claim compensation for the cost of outsourcing these services.
  • Pain and suffering – Emotional trauma and distress experienced by survivors also merit financial compensation.

Is There a Deadline for Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Arizona?

Arizona has a deadline for filing a wrongful death lawsuit. You must file your case within two years from the date of the death. This deadline is crucial, as failing to file within this period may result in losing your right to compensation. Our truck accident attorneys at Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer can help ensure your case is filed promptly and correctly.

Contact an Arizona Wrongful Death Lawyer Today

Losing a loved one in a trucking accident is devastating. But you don’t have to go through the legal process alone. At Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer, our compassionate and experienced team is ready to help you pursue the compensation you deserve through a wrongful death claim. Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with an Arizona semi-truck accident lawyer. Let us help you find the path to justice during this difficult time.