Rhode Island Truck Accident Lawyer
As the number of commercial trucks on the road in Rhode Island increases, so does the likelihood of an accident. If you’ve been in a truck accident, contacting a lawyer may be necessary to protect your rights.
- Updated date:
- June 26, 2024
Commercial trucks are among the largest vehicles on the road, which means that accidents involving trucks can be catastrophic. While the number of serious car accident injuries is steadily decreasing in Rhode Island, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Safety Administration, 74 vehicles were involved in fatal accidents in 2019. Large trucks accounted for 5.4% of those vehicles.
After a crash involving a commercial trucking vehicle, you may suffer life-altering injuries that make it impossible to work. You need a lawyer ready to represent you so you can focus on recovering.
When searching for a Rhode Island truck accident lawyer, you should consider the law firm’s areas of focus, years of experience, and success record. The personal injury lawyers at Marasco & Nesselbush can help if you’ve been injured in an accident involving a commercial trucking vehicle. Depending on the nature of your crash, you may be eligible for compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
Marasco & Nesselbush's Case Results
When you hire a truck accident lawyer in Rhode Island, choosing a legal team knowledgeable in personal injury law is essential. Marasco & Nesselbush has experience in truck accident cases and will help you recover the compensation you deserve. To demonstrate the commitment of Marasco & Nesselbush’s legal team, here are some recent case results:
AWARDED
$1 million
to a family in a wrongful death truck accident case
AWARDED
$1.05 million
to a family in a wrongful death commercial trucking accident
DO I HAVE A CASE?
If you think you may have a case, contact us now for a FREE consultation
Should I Hire A Truck Accident Lawyer In Rhode Island?
Drivers
Trucking companies
Vehicle manufacturers
Maintenance technicians
Drivers of passenger vehicles may also be responsible for trucking accidents.
Rhode Island is a pure comparative fault state. In such areas, claimants can receive financial compensation even if they are partly or primarily responsible for the crash.
Benefits of Hiring a Truck Accident Lawyer:
- Communicate with the trucking company’s insurance provider
- Obtain and present evidence to establish accident responsibility
- Work with doctors to get the proper treatment documentation
- Organize medical bills and health records
- File a personal injury claim with your local court
- Negotiate with lien holders regarding your claim
- Negotiate an appropriate settlement with the insurance company or defense lawyer
One of the main benefits of hiring a personal injury lawyer after a trucking accident is to help you understand your rights. Failure to do so can lead to loss of deserved compensation.
Lastly, truck accident lawyers are helpful in both interstate and intrastate (confined to one state only) cases because these experienced professionals understand the specific risks of local roads, bridges, and weather conditions. Having a truck accident attorney who understands the dynamics of the local environment is a critical element in effectively negotiating with the insurance company and the courts.
Overview of the Legal Process in Truck Accident Claims
Navigating the legal aftermath of a truck accident in Rhode Island can be complex, but understanding the process is crucial for achieving the best possible outcome. At Marasco & Nesselbush Law Offices, we guide our clients through each step, ensuring they are well informed and prepared.
Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation
- Free Consultation: Our first step is always a no-cost, no-obligation consultation. This is where we discuss the specifics of your accident and assess the viability of your case.
- Case Evaluation: We thoroughly evaluate the evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, and any available camera footage, to build a strong foundation for your claim.
Filing the Lawsuit
- Document Preparation: We prepare and file all necessary legal documents to initiate your lawsuit. This includes drafting the complaint, which outlines your claim and the damages sought.
- Service of Process: The defendants are officially notified of the lawsuit and given a chance to respond.
Discovery Phase
- Information Gathering: Both parties exchange relevant information through discovery tools like interrogatories, depositions, and requests for documents.
- Expert Testimony: We may consult with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other specialists to strengthen your case.
Negotiation and Mediation
- Settlement Negotiations: A significant part of the process involves negotiating with the opposing party’s insurance company to reach a fair settlement.
- Mediation: If necessary, a neutral third party can be involved to mediate and help reach an agreement.
Trial
- Court Proceedings: If a settlement isn’t reached, your case will go to trial. Here, we present your case before a judge or jury, advocating on your behalf for the best possible judgment.
Appeal Process
- Post-Trial Motions and Appeals: Should the need arise, we are prepared to file any post-trial motions or appeals to ensure that your rights are fully represented.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, large trucks are involved in approximately 9% of all motor vehicle crashes but are more likely to result in serious injury or death.
Our approach is always tailored to each client’s unique situation, ensuring that you receive personalized and effective representation. With Marasco & Nesselbush, you’re not just getting a lawyer; you’re gaining a dedicated team committed to advocating for your rights and helping you navigate the complexities of Rhode Island truck accident claims.
Understanding Your Rights and Potential Compensation
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Rhode Island, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and the potential compensation you may be entitled to. At Marasco & Nesselbush Law Offices, we believe in empowering our clients with knowledge, ensuring they are fully informed every step of the way.
Your Rights as a Truck Accident Victim
As a victim of a truck accident in Rhode Island, you have specific rights designed to protect you:
- Right to Legal Representation: You have the right to consult and hire a truck accident attorney to represent your interests in court and negotiations.
- Right to File a Lawsuit: If you’ve suffered injuries or losses due to a truck accident, you have the right to pursue legal action against the responsible parties.
- Right to Compensation: You are entitled to seek compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Potential Compensation in Truck Accident Claims
Understanding the types of compensation available is key to ensuring you receive what you deserve:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for all medical treatments, including future medical care, related to injuries from the truck accident.
- Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: Compensation for lost wages due to time off work and if your injuries impact your future earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: This includes compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Punitive Damages: In some cases, if the defendant’s conduct was particularly egregious, you might be entitled to punitive damages.
Navigating the Legal Terrain
Our experienced truck accident lawyers at Marasco & Nesselbush Law Offices are well-versed in Rhode Island’s truck accident laws and regulations. We’re committed to guiding you through the legal process, advocating for your rights, and ensuring you receive the maximum compensation possible.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Marasco & Nesselbush Law Offices. Let us help you navigate your rights and potential compensation with the expertise and dedication you deserve.
How Long Do I Have To File My Case?
Under a legal regulation called the statute of limitations, you must file any personal injury lawsuit within a specific time frame. The statute of limitations is intended to ensure that all evidence is as reliable as possible.
Generally, you must file a personal injury lawsuit in Rhode Island within three years of the accident date. However, some injuries manifest slowly over time, and victims may not recognize them immediately after the incident. In some instances, the statute of limitations does not start until the victim becomes aware of the injury. This regulation is the discovery of harm rule.
Causes Of Truck Accidents In Rhode Island
TYPES OF COMMERCIAL VEHICLES
- Lorries
- Semi-truck
- Tractor-Trailers
- Tractors
- Flatbed Trucks
- Garbage Trucks
- Dump Trucks
- Mail Trucks
Driver fatigue
Driving too fast
Distracted Driving
Inadequate surveillance
Brake issues
Improper lane changes
Issues with the flow of traffic
Unfamiliarity with road conditions
Driver or alcohol substance use
Inclement weather conditions
Rhode Island Laws And Regulations For Commercial Trucks
- Drivers must possess a valid commercial driver’s license.
- Drivers can be on-duty for 14 consecutive hours, with a limit of 11 hours driving time within those 14 hours. This rule is the hours-of-service regulation.
- Truckers must keep driving logs proving they have not violated the hours-of-service regulation.
- It is illegal to operate a commercial trucking vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration above 0.04%.
- Drivers must regularly inspect their vehicles to ensure that equipment is in good working order.
Besides state and federal regulations, some trucking companies set their own rules for drivers. It is essential for commercial truckers to fully understand and comply with all company, state, and federal regulations.
Work With Marasco & Nesselbush's Legal Team
“For anyone who is really looking for a team of Attorneys that will fight for you every second of the way, this here is the team you want and need in your corner. Attorney Ryan Kelley and his team helped me through such a difficult time after my accident. The stress of thinking what happens next was lifted off my shoulders.
Communication is key for me, and my M&N team was on point with the level of communication they provided. The get-well cards and flowers after surgery were just a special touch that brightened my day. I wasn’t treated like another number or another case, they really made me feel like family. They really care for you and your wellbeing. Words will never express but I will forever be grateful for all they have done for me. Thank you !!!!!”
Client Reviews
Over
Recovered on behalf of our clients.
Jury verdict for a client whose lifelong disabilities were caused by medical negligence.
Awarded to a client who sustained serious injuries in a rollover crash caused by a distracted driver.
Recovered for the estate of a woman who passed as a result of surgical negligence.
Recovered for a client who sustained a traumatic brain injury in a car crash.
- Published date:
- April 1, 2022
- Updated date:
- June 26, 2024
Commercial trucks are among the largest vehicles on the road, which means that accidents involving trucks can be catastrophic. While the number of serious car accident injuries is steadily decreasing in Rhode Island, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Safety Administration, 74 vehicles were involved in fatal accidents in 2019. Large trucks accounted for 5.4% of those vehicles.
After a crash involving a commercial trucking vehicle, you may suffer life-altering injuries that make it impossible to work. You need a lawyer ready to represent you so you can focus on recovering.
When searching for a Rhode Island truck accident lawyer, you should consider the law firm’s areas of focus, years of experience, and success record. The personal injury lawyers at Marasco & Nesselbush can help if you’ve been injured in an accident involving a commercial trucking vehicle. Depending on the nature of your crash, you may be eligible for compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
MARASCO & NESSELBUSH'S CASE RESULTS
$1 million
to a family in a wrongful death truck accident case
AWARDED
$1.05 million
to a family in a wrongful death commercial trucking accident
DO I HAVE A CASE?
If you think you may have a case, contact us now for a FREE consultation
RELATED LINKS
- Rhode Island Personal Injury Lawyer
- Rhode Island Catastrophic Injury Lawyer
- Rhode Island Wrongful Death Lawyer
- Rhode Island Product Liability Lawyer
Free Case Review
Contact Marasco & Nesselbush today for a free review of your truck accident case.
Susan B.
SHOULD I HIRE A TRUCK ACCIDENT LAWYER IN RHODE ISLAND?
Drivers
Trucking companies
Vehicle manufacturers
Maintenance technicians
Drivers of passenger vehicles may also be responsible for trucking accidents.
Rhode Island is a pure comparative fault state. In such areas, claimants can receive financial compensation even if they are partly or primarily responsible for the crash.
Hiring a Rhode Island truck accident lawyer is vital to establishing which party is responsible. Depending on the nature of your case, a lawyer may be able to help you with the following:
- Communicate with the trucking company’s insurance provider
- Obtain and present evidence to establish accident responsibility
- Work with doctors to get the proper treatment documentation
- Organize medical bills and health records
- File a personal injury claim with your local court
- Negotiate with lien holders regarding your claim
- Negotiate an appropriate settlement with the insurance company or defense lawyer
Lastly, truck accident lawyers are helpful in both interstate and intrastate (confined to one state only) cases because these experienced professionals understand the specific risks of local roads, bridges, and weather conditions. Having an attorney who understands the dynamics of the local environment is a critical element in effectively negotiating with the insurance company and the courts.
HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO FILE MY CASE?
Under a legal regulation called the statute of limitations, you must file any personal injury lawsuit within a specific time frame. The statute of limitations is intended to ensure that all evidence is as reliable as possible.
Generally, you must file a personal injury lawsuit in Rhode Island within three years of the accident date. However, some injuries manifest slowly over time, and victims may not recognize them immediately after the incident. In some instances, the statute of limitations does not start until the victim becomes aware of the injury. This regulation is the discovery of harm rule.
CAUSES OF TRUCK ACCIDENTS IN RHODE ISLAND
TYPES OF COMMERCIAL VEHICLES
- Lorries
- Semi-truck
- Tractor-Trailers
- Tractors
- Flatbed Trucks
- Garbage Trucks
- Dump Trucks
- Mail Trucks
Driver fatigue
Driving too fast
Distracted Driving
Inadequate surveillance
Brake issues
Improper lane changes
Issues with the flow of traffic
Unfamiliarity with road conditions
Driver or alcohol substance use
Inclement weather conditions
A study conducted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) found driver error causes 87% of truck accidents. Fatigue is a significant factor in crashes primarily caused by human error. The FMCSA sets limits on the maximum number of hours truckers can legally operate their vehicles without rest to prevent driver fatigue.
Providence is the city where many of the state’s car accidents occur. While crashes can take place on any street, some intersections are more dangerous than others. Memorial Boulevard near Providence Place Mall and Interstate 95 near exits 24 and 18 frequently see many collisions.
The busy downtown city streets of Washington, Westminster, and Weybosset are also considered dangerous for car crashes.
RHODE ISLAND LAWS AND REGULATIONS FOR COMMERCIAL TRUCKS
Rules for intrastate trucking activity are set by Rhode Island’s Office of Highway Safety and the Department of Transportation. Commercial vehicles operating on interstate roads must follow regulations set by the FMCSA and the U.S. Department of Transportation. In general, truckers must adhere to the following rules while driving on intrastate or interstate roads in Rhode Island:
- Drivers must possess a valid commercial driver’s license.
- Drivers can be on-duty for 14 consecutive hours, with a limit of 11 hours driving time within those 14 hours. This rule is the hours-of-service regulation.
- Truckers must keep driving logs proving they have not violated the hours-of-service regulation.
- It is illegal to operate a commercial trucking vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration above 0.04%.
- Drivers must regularly inspect their vehicles to ensure that equipment is in good working order.
Besides state and federal regulations, some trucking companies set their own rules for drivers. It is essential for commercial truckers to fully understand and comply with all company, state, and federal regulations.
WORK WITH MARASCO & NESSELBUSH'S LEGAL TEAM
“For anyone who is really looking for a team of Attorneys that will fight for you every second of the way, this here is the team you want and need in your corner. Attorney Ryan Kelley and his team helped me through such a difficult time after my accident. The stress of thinking what happens next was lifted off my shoulders.
Communication is key for me, and my M&N team was on point with the level of communication they provided. The get-well cards and flowers after surgery were just a special touch that brightened my day. I wasn’t treated like another number or another case, they really made me feel like family. They really care for you and your wellbeing. Words will never express but I will forever be grateful for all they have done for me. Thank you !!!!!”