Minnesota Truck Accident Lawyer

Compensation for Truck Accident Injuries

Suppose you have suffered an injury in a truck accident in Minnesota. In that case, you may be eligible for compensation for your medical expenses, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and other damages. Seeking compensation for truck accident injuries can be a detailed process, and having a knowledgeable Minnesota truck accident lawyer by your side can significantly increase your chances of receiving fair compensation. Some compensation types you may be entitled to include:

• Medical expenses: This includes the cost of hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and any other medical treatment for your injuries.
• Lost income: If you cannot work due to your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for your lost earnings and may continue to lose.
• Pain and suffering: You can receive compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. This compensation form aims to address the non-economic damages you have suffered.
• Property damage: If the truck accident damaged your vehicle or personal property, you may be eligible for compensation to repair or replace them.
• Loss of consortium: If your injuries have affected your relationship with your spouse or partner, you may be entitled to compensation for the loss of consortium.

Common Types of Truck Accidents in Minnesota

Truck accidents can occur in various ways, but some common types include:

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions happen when a truck fails to stop in time and crashes into the vehicle in front of it. These accidents are often the result of the truck driver’s negligence, such as distracted driving or following too closely. Given the weight and size of trucks, the impact of a rear-end collision can cause severe injuries and extensive vehicle damage.

Jackknife Accidents

A jackknife accident occurs when a truck’s trailer swings out to the side, forming an angle with the truck’s cab. This typically happens when the truck driver loses control, often due to sudden braking, slick road conditions, or improper handling. When a trailer slides sideways, it can block multiple lanes of traffic, posing a serious hazard to other drivers.

Underride Accidents

Underride accidents are particularly dangerous and often fatal. These accidents happen when a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of a truck and ends up sliding underneath the truck’s trailer. Despite safety regulations requiring underride guards on trucks, the severity of injuries in these incidents is often catastrophic due to the vulnerability of the smaller vehicle’s occupants.

Truck Rollovers

Truck rollovers occur when a truck tips onto its side or roof, often caused by sharp turns, high speeds, or shifting cargo. They can cause significant damage to other vehicles on the road, leading to serious injuries for the truck driver and nearby motorists. These accidents are particularly dangerous on highways, where high speeds exacerbate the impact.

Tire Blowouts

A sudden tire blowout in a truck can result in the driver losing control and causing an accident. When a tire explodes, it becomes challenging for the driver to steer or brake effectively, creating hazardous conditions for everyone on the road. Debris from the blown tire can also pose additional risks to surrounding vehicles, leading to secondary collisions.

Truck Accident Injuries

Truck accidents often result in serious injuries due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. Some common injuries sustained in truck accidents include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): The force of impact in a truck accident can cause severe head injuries, including concussions and more severe traumatic brain injuries. TBIs can have long-lasting effects on a person’s cognitive function and overall quality of life.
• Spinal cord injuries: A truck accident can lead to spinal cord injuries, resulting in partial or complete paralysis. These injuries can be life-changing, requiring ongoing medical care and rehabilitation.
• Broken bones: The impact of a truck accident can easily fracture bones in the body. Broken bones can be painful and may require surgeries or prolonged periods of immobilization.
• Internal injuries: The force of a truck accident can cause internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding. These injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if left untreated.
• Whiplash: A common injury in rear-end collisions, whiplash occurs when the head jerks suddenly back and forth, damaging the neck and spine. It can cause pain, stiffness, and a limited range of motion.
• Emotional trauma: Being involved in a truck accident can lead to emotional trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. These psychological injuries are just as valid as physical injuries and may require therapy and treatment.

Where Do Truck Accidents Occur in Minnesota?

Truck accidents occur throughout Minnesota, often in areas with high traffic volumes, busy intersections, and challenging road conditions. Specific locations and highways are particularly prone to truck accidents due to their design, traffic patterns, or usage by commercial vehicles. Here are some of the particular areas and roadways in Minnesota where truck accidents commonly happen:

Interstate 94 (I-94)

One of Minnesota’s busiest highways, I-94, connects key cities such as Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Moorhead. This interstate sees heavy commercial truck traffic transporting goods across the state and beyond. Accidents on I-94 often occur due to high speeds, congestion, and sudden lane changes, particularly in urban areas like downtown Minneapolis and near the Lowry Tunnel.

Interstate 35 (I-35)

Running from the Iowa border through the Twin Cities and up to Duluth, I-35 is another major truck route in Minnesota. The highway’s two branches, I-35E and I-35W, experience frequent truck accidents in congested areas like Burnsville, Eagan, and downtown St. Paul. Winter weather conditions, such as ice and snow, exacerbate risks on this heavily traveled route.

Highway 169

Stretching from southern Minnesota through the Twin Cities metro and up to the northern part of the state, Highway 169 is a critical artery for commercial trucks. Highways experience frequent accidents, particularly in suburban areas like Bloomington, Shakopee, and Maple Grove, where truck traffic mixes with commuter vehicles. Intersections and merging lanes near construction zones are especially hazardous.

Highway 10

Highway 10, which passes through cities like Coon Rapids, Anoka, and St. Cloud, is a known hotspot for truck accidents. This highway often sees congestion, and its mix of rural and urban traffic creates challenging driving conditions. Merging lanes and high-speed areas make it a common site for rear-end collisions and side-swipes involving trucks.

Rural Roads in Agricultural Regions

Minnesota’s agricultural regions, such as those in Stearns County and Renville County, are heavily trafficked by trucks transporting farm equipment and goods. Narrow rural roads, sharp turns, and varying road conditions make these areas prone to truck accidents. Collisions often occur at unmarked intersections or when large vehicles block visibility on winding roads.

Highway 52

Known as the “Dangerous 52” due to its accident history, Highway 52 runs from Rochester to the Twin Cities and is a vital route for freight trucks. Due to its high speeds, heavy truck traffic, and limited opportunities for passing, this highway sees frequent crashes. The section near Cannon Falls is particularly prone to accidents.

No matter where in Minnesota you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, consult with one of our Minnesota truck accident lawyers who understands Minnesota’s roads and laws.

Fighting the Insurance Company After Sustaining Truck Accident Injuries

After being injured in a truck accident, you will likely have to deal with the insurance company to seek compensation for your injuries. However, insurance companies are primarily concerned with their bottom line and may employ various tactics to reduce or deny your claim. Be aware of these tactics and have a skilled Minnesota truck accident attorney on your side who can fight for your rights.

Dealing with the tactics used by insurance companies can be overwhelming, especially when you are trying to recover from your injuries. Our dedicated Minnesota truck accident attorneys in Minnesota can help level the playing field and fight for your rights.

What Should You Do After Being Injured in a Truck Accident?

If you’ve suffered an injury in a truck accident in Minnesota, taking the proper steps to protect your rights and increase your chances of receiving fair compensation is imperative. First and foremost, prioritize your health by continuing with all necessary medical follow-up appointments. Attending these appointments and following your doctor’s instructions for treatment and rehabilitation are vital for your recovery and creating a clear record of your injuries and care.

Additionally, keep detailed records of all aspects of your accident. Ensure you maintain a thorough record of your medical treatments, related expenses, and any other costs incurred due to the accident. Save invoices, receipts, and any correspondence with insurance companies to ensure you have a comprehensive account of the financial impact the accident has had on your life.

Lastly, consulting with our firm’s knowledgeable Minnesota truck accident attorney should be a priority. Your lawyer will protect your rights, manage the legal process for your case, and advocate for the fair compensation you deserve. Acting quickly to secure legal representation can make all the difference in achieving a successful outcome. By taking these steps, you can focus on your recovery while safeguarding your rights.