Traverse City Truck Accident Lawyers

Serving Truck Accident Victims in Grand Traverse County, Western & Northern Michigan

Among the many hazards on our roads, trucks pose a significant risk to motorists. Because of their massive size and weight, commercial trucks can cause serious accidents when they collide with smaller vehicles. These accidents often result in severe injuries, including spinal cord damage and traumatic brain injuries.

Some common causes for trucking accidents include:

If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a trucking accident, you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about your next steps. Depending on your injuries, you may not be able to work for an extended period. You deserve a way to rebuild your life.

A claim may help recover costs related to your accident, such as hospital bills, rehabilitation, lost wages, property repairs, as well as compensation for pain and suffering. If you lost a loved one in a trucking accident, our team can help you pursue a wrongful death claim or lawsuit on their behalf.

Types of Truck Accidents

Commercial vehicles traveling through Traverse City often use routes like M-72 and nearby roadways. Accidents involving these large trucks can be caused by a variety of factors, including distracted driving, severe winter weather, driver fatigue, speeding, and poor vehicle maintenance.

These risk factors can lead to different types of truck accidents, such as:

• Rear-end collisions: Heavy trucks take longer to slow down leading to rear-end crashes.
• Jackknife accidents: The trailer section of a truck can swing out creating a “V” shape, causing multi-vehicle crashes and blocking major highways.
• Rollover accidents: Speeding or tight curves can cause large trucks to tip over, putting others in danger.
• Underride accidents: Smaller vehicles can slide under a truck’s trailer, often causing life-threatening injuries.
• Cargo spills: Unsecured or overloaded cargo can spill during turns or stops, leading to hazards for drivers on Michigan roads.

Understanding the type of truck accident can help reveal how local factors in Traverse City contributed to the collision. This knowledge allows Miller Embury PLLC to build strategies that address the realities of trucking operations and Michigan road conditions.

Understanding the Legal Process for Truck Accident Claims

Dealing with the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to navigating the legal process. At Miller Embury PLLC, our experienced truck accident lawyers are here to guide you through every step of your claim and ensure that your rights are protected.

Here is an overview of the legal process for truck accident claims:

1. Investigation: Our team will conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage. This helps establish liability and build a strong case on your behalf.
2. Filing a Lawsuit: If negotiations with the insurance company are unsuccessful in reaching a fair settlement, we will file a lawsuit on your behalf. This initiates the legal process and allows us to seek compensation through the court system.
3. Discovery: During the discovery phase, both parties exchange information and evidence related to the case. This may include medical records, expert testimonies, and other relevant documents.
4. Negotiations and Settlement: In many cases, truck accident claims are resolved through negotiations outside of court. Our skilled tractor-trailer accident attorney in Traverse City can work tirelessly to negotiate a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
5. Trial: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial. Our trial lawyers have extensive experience in the courtroom and will aggressively advocate for your rights before a judge and jury.
6. Appeals: If the outcome of your case is not satisfactory, our legal team can help you explore the possibility of filing an appeal to seek a different outcome.

We understand the complexities of truck accident cases and are committed to providing you with personalized attention and aggressive representation. Contact us today for a free case evaluation and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Trucking Accident?

Truck accidents are often complex, with multiple contributing factors. Assigning fault requires an investigation that considers each party involved in the truck’s operation and maintenance, as well as any outside influences. 

These are some of the parties who may be held responsible:

• Truck driver: The driver bears the primary responsibility for safe operation. Negligent actions such as speeding, driving while distracted, operating while fatigued, or under the influence can cause accidents. Violations of traffic laws or ignoring industry rules regarding hours and maintenance may establish driver fault.
• Trucking company: Trucking companies may share liability if they fail to keep vehicles maintained or if they pressure drivers to ignore safety regulations, for example, by pushing for longer driving hours or skipping required breaks to meet delivery demands. Poor driver training or negligent hiring also can expose companies to accountability.
• Vehicle maintenance providers: Poor repairs or skipped routine maintenance by third-party services can cause equipment failures. Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, or other mechanical issues may contribute to crashes. If failed maintenance played a role, these providers may also be held liable.
• Cargo loaders: Improperly loaded cargo affects a truck’s balance. Overloading or failing to secure freight can lead to dangerous spills or instability. In these cases, the loader may face responsibility for the accident.
• Manufacturers: Defective parts or components, like brakes or steering systems, sometimes cause crashes despite proper operation. When a defective part triggers an accident, the manufacturer may be liable.

Accidents with semi-trucks often require careful review of state and federal regulations. Michigan’s guidelines for commercial drivers are layered alongside federal laws, and knowing both matters when determining fault. Our team knows these regulations well and can thoroughly investigate to pursue the compensaiton you need.

Recoverable Damages After a Truck or Tractor Trailer Accident

People injured in big rig accidents in Michigan may be eligible to seek multiple types of compensation. Damages help cover immediate out-of-pocket expenses and long-term recovery needs. 

Economic damages may include reimbursement for medical costs, lost wages, and costs to repair or replace property. For those with extended injuries, claims may account for ongoing wage loss or reduced earning potential. 

Noneconomic damages compensate for losses not always tied to receipts, including pain and suffering or loss of quality of life. Each case demands a thorough review of injuries and the overall impact on daily life. Our legal team focuses on documenting all important details so you can move toward stability and recovery.

Experienced Advocates for Traverse City 18-Wheeler Accident Victims

At Miller Embury PLLC, our legal team provides the insight and resources needed to guard your rights in and out of court. With 45+ years of personal injury experience, we offer valuable guidance at every step. We pursue fair results for each client and advocate for the compensation you need and deserve.

We strongly discourage you from negotiating directly with the trucking company’s insurance provider. Insurers are not focused on your best interests. They may propose a low settlement or try to minimize your claim. Their approach often changes as soon as we become involved. In one matter, we obtained a $250,000 jury verdict after the insurer's top offer was only $13,000.

Contact Miller Embury PLLC for a Free Case valuation.

We focus on the outcomes of our clients’ cases. Take a look at what some of our past clients have to say about the services they received from our firm. When you contact us, we can schedule a free, initial consultation and discuss getting started with your claim.

Commonly Asked Questions

What are some common injuries resulting from truck accidents?

Truck accidents can result in serious injuries, including spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and internal injuries.

How can external factors contribute to truck accidents?

External factors such as road conditions, weather, visibility, and other drivers' actions can make it harder for a truck to maneuver safely and sometimes lead to accidents.

What steps should I take after being involved in a truck accident?

After a truck accident, ensure your safety, get medical attention, report the crash to authorities, gather evidence if you can, and consult with a qualified truck accident attorney in Traverse City to review your legal options.

How can an experienced truck accident lawyer help with my case?

A truck accident lawyer can investigate your case, determine liability, negotiate with insurance providers, manage paperwork, represent you in court if needed, and pursue fair compensation for your damages.