Cleveland Truck Accident Attorneys
Do You Need Legal Help?
- Zora S.
- Lashawn H.
Our Team
Our objectives remain clear in every case we pursue: To give every client, without delay, excuse or equivocation, our full attention, sound advice and forceful representation.
Learn MoreDan Ryan
Attorney
Elizabeth Fitzgerald
Paralegal
9 Important Pitfalls to Avoid in Your Ohio Personal Injury Claim
Learn what you should and shouldn't be doing to help your personal injury case. Fill out the information below to receive your free copy.
Cleveland Truck Accident Attorneys
If you have been involved in a truck accident in Cleveland, we understand that you may feel confused and worried. You might be thinking about how to pay your bills or get the medical help you need. Our team at Ryan Injury Lawyers is here for you during this difficult time. We offer free consultations to discuss your injury case and how we can assist you. You don’t have to go through this alone. We will start working on your case as soon as you hire us, and we will not stop until you receive full and fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Understanding Truck Accidents in Cleveland
Truck accidents can cause severe injuries and damage. In Ohio, truck accidents have been a growing concern, with hundreds of accidents reported each year. According to the Ohio Department of Public Safety, there were over 15,000 truck accidents statewide in 2021, resulting in significant injuries and fatalities. These statistics highlight the dangers of truck accidents and the importance of taking appropriate steps after one occurs.
When a large truck is involved in an accident, the impact can be much greater than that of a typical car accident. Trucks weigh significantly more than passenger vehicles, which means the force during a collision can lead to devastating injuries. Victims may face extensive medical bills, long recovery times, and emotional distress. It’s crucial to know how to navigate the aftermath of a truck accident.
Steps to Take After a Truck Accident
The moments following a truck accident can be overwhelming. It is essential to remain calm and take specific steps to protect yourself and your potential case. First, check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately for medical assistance. Once everyone is safe, gather as much information as possible. This includes taking pictures of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. Collect names and contact information from witnesses, as their accounts may be helpful later on.
After you have ensured safety and gathered information, it is crucial to avoid speaking with the insurance companies, even your own, until you have consulted with an attorney. Insurance adjusters often aim to minimize payouts and may ask questions that could be used against you later. Speaking with a lawyer first can help protect your rights and ensure that you do not accidentally jeopardize your claim.
At Ryan Injury Lawyers, we are dedicated to helping victims of truck accidents in Cleveland. Our team understands the complexities of truck accident claims and the laws surrounding them. We know that dealing with insurance companies can be frustrating and intimidating. That is why we are here to take on that burden for you. Our goal is to make the process as smooth as possible while you focus on your recovery.
When you choose us, you can trust that we will put your needs first. We believe in open communication, and we will keep you informed every step of the way. Our commitment is to work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. You deserve compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and any pain and suffering you have endured due to the accident.
How Long Does a Truck Accident Claim Take To Settle?
Truck accident cases are often complicated due to the severity of the injuries, damages, and other factors. Filing a claim, gathering evidence, and seeking compensation can take you around six months to a full year. Hiring a legal professional ensures you take the appropriate measures and are on the right track.
Related Videos
Should I talk to the insurance company without an attorney after a truck accident?
How do you determine the value of a truck accident claim?
What is the process of a truck accident claim?
Do I need an attorney for my truck accident claim?
Mistakes to Avoid After a Truck Accident in Cleveland
Suffering an injury in a truck accident can be a traumatic experience. In the midst of pain and confusion, it is crucial to avoid making certain mistakes that could affect your case. At Ryan Injury Lawyers, we understand the challenges you face and want to guide you through this difficult time. Here are some common missteps to steer clear of after a truck accident in Cleveland.
Not Seeking Immediate Medical Treatment
One of the biggest mistakes people make after a truck accident is not getting immediate medical treatment. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not show symptoms right away. Delaying medical care can worsen your injuries and make it harder to connect them to the accident later on. Getting checked out by a doctor right after the accident is essential. This not only helps you recover but also creates an important medical record that can be vital for your case.
Ignoring Doctor’s Orders
After your medical treatment, it is equally important to follow your doctor’s orders closely. Skipping follow-up appointments or ignoring prescribed treatments can have serious consequences. Insurance companies look for reasons to deny claims, and if they see that you did not comply with medical advice, they may argue that you are not taking your recovery seriously. Sticking to your treatment plan is not just important for your health; it also helps strengthen your case.
Talking to Insurance Companies Without a Lawyer
Another common error is speaking to the insurance company without a lawyer present. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, and they may ask questions designed to catch you off guard or make it seem like you are at fault. Without proper legal representation, you could inadvertently say something that harms your case. It is always best to consult with a knowledgeable attorney before communicating with any insurance representatives.
Choosing The Wrong Lawyer
When seeking legal help, be cautious about who you choose to represent you. Hiring a lawyer who is not a trial attorney can be a costly mistake. Insurance companies are aware of which lawyers are prepared to take cases to court and which are not. If they know your lawyer is not a trial attorney, they may be less likely to offer a fair settlement. At Ryan Injury Lawyers, we are Cleveland truck accident attorneys who are not afraid to go to trial when necessary. Our firm has a proven track record of successfully handling truck accident claims and fighting for our clients’ rights.
Truck accidents inside a Construction Site
Construction sites are home to a bevy of different equipment and workers. The construction site is one big, bustling city with its own set of laws, rules and regulations that must be followed for the whole operation to run smoothly. working inside the site. Aside from stagnant and non animated objects being unchecked and misplaced that poses danger, there are multiple machinery and materials being scattered all over the place and sometimes unchecked due to busy and fast paced surrounding posing as possible danger to anyone so man-operated machinery and vehicles that are constantly in motion and moving for its service and convenience that oftentimes cause accidents to a worker.
Trucks, earth-moving equipment and other heavy vehicles are essential on construction sites. These large vehicles not only help workers with projects but also make the job a little less difficult for them. However, when these types of trucks are placed in the hands of inexperienced drivers, handled faultily and other errors, they can be very dangerous to those around them as well as themselves. Furthermore, if this type truck passes through an active construction zone adding how volatile and how spread out the hazards are in a construction scene, it will threaten lives without question because accidents happen all too often due to bad decisions made by others like yourself or just plain old negligence from time to time.
Construction Related Incidents And Fatalities in Statistics
Cases and notable facts construction related are easily absorbed in numbers and would still read-worthy, these statistics are combined observation by OSHA, BLS, NIH, CPWR, Midwest EPI, and Liberty Mutual.
- 1/5 deaths in US occupation is construction related death, 60% of these numbers are caused by falling object while 33% are due to falls.
- 1,061 construction laborers died in 2019, a notable one because it is at its peak.
- 1.7% of the total population of construction workers suffer sustenance of injury inside the work place annually and this industry is responsible for 8.5% of total cases of injuries resulting in lost days of work.
- This industry is infamous for high injury rate compared to other industry at 71%, as in 2018 there were 195,000 cases of injuries deemed as highest.
- It costs the United States $5 billion each year in health care, lost income, reduced quality of life, and lost of power in production
- Workers’ compensation claims for non-fatal falls account for $2.5 billion annually
Truck-Induced Problems And Accidents Inside The Construction Site
These are the common accidents involving a truck mover inside a construction site;
- Collision with a person or worst, rollover and pinning
- Back-up accidents
- Cargo spills
These occurrences could lead to invisible damages such as;
- Suffering from physical pain due to either the injury or the medical treatment of that injury
- Emotional strain
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accidents in Cleveland
If you have been injured in a truck accident in Cleveland, you likely have many questions about your rights and the legal process. The following frequently asked questions are designed to provide clarity and guidance as you navigate this challenging situation.
After a truck accident, your health and safety should be your top priority. If you are injured, seek medical attention right away. Even if you feel fine, it is crucial to get checked out, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Additionally, if it is safe to do so, document the accident scene by taking photos and collecting information from the other party, including their insurance details. It is also wise to contact the police to file an official report, which can be important for any future claims. Once you have ensured your immediate safety, consider reaching out to Cleveland truck accident attorneys who can guide you through the legal process.
Cleveland truck accident lawyers can provide valuable assistance throughout your case. They can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. An experienced attorney can assess the circumstances of your accident, identify all liable parties, and work to secure the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. By handling the legal complexities of your case, they allow you to focus on your recovery.
The compensation you may receive for injuries sustained in a truck accident can vary based on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of your medical treatment, and the impact on your daily life. Potential compensation can cover medical expenses, lost income, rehabilitation costs, property damage, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering or emotional distress. Working with Cleveland truck accident attorneys will enable you to evaluate your situation and pursue a comprehensive claim that addresses all your losses.
In Ohio, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is typically two years from the date of the accident. It is crucial to adhere to this timeline, as failing to file your claim within this period may result in losing your right to seek compensation. However, certain circumstances may affect this timeframe, making it essential to consult with Cleveland truck accident attorneys as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected.
Ohio follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that even if you share some responsibility for the accident, you may still be entitled to compensation. Your percentage of fault will affect the amount you can recover. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault and your damages amount to $100,000, you would be eligible to recover $80,000. Consulting with Cleveland truck accident attorneys will help you understand how fault is determined and how it impacts your claim.
If an insurance company contacts you after your truck accident, it is essential to proceed with caution. While they may seem helpful, their primary goal is often to minimize their liability. Avoid providing recorded statements or accepting settlement offers without consulting with Cleveland truck accident attorneys first. An attorney can handle all communication with the insurance company on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected and that you do not inadvertently jeopardize your claim.
Cleveland Truck Accident Attorneys Client Story
This client story is for educational purposes only.
David felt the world tilt around him as the massive truck slammed into the back of his car. The screeching sound of metal crunching echoed in his ears, followed by a thick silence that enveloped him and his wife, Laura. In an instant, their lives changed forever. What should have been an ordinary drive home became a nightmare filled with pain, uncertainty, and fear.
After the accident, David faced many challenges. He and Laura were shaken, both physically and emotionally. The pain in his back was constant, a reminder of that terrifying day. They worried about medical bills piling up, treatments they couldn’t afford, and how they would make ends meet. They thought about the insurance company, which promised help but soon became a source of frustration. They received a call offering a small amount of money, a sum that felt like a slap in the face. It would barely cover the medical expenses, let alone the suffering they endured.
Feeling lost and overwhelmed, David remembered hearing about Tom Ryan and his team at Ryan Injury Lawyers. He was hesitant but knew he needed help. After calling the firm, he was met with compassion and understanding. Tom Ryan listened intently to David’s story, making him feel heard and supported. Tom didn’t just see David as another case; he saw a man who had suffered and deserved justice.
With Tom by his side, David learned about the process ahead. They decided to take the case to trial. David felt a mix of anxiety and hope. He wasn’t just fighting for money; he was fighting for his family, for the life they had before the accident. Tom explained each step, assuring David that they would work together to get the fair compensation he deserved. David appreciated Tom’s dedication and his belief in his case.
As the trial approached, David found himself gaining strength. With Tom’s guidance, he gathered evidence, talked to witnesses, and learned more about his rights. In the courtroom, Tom’s passion shone through. He stood up for David and Laura, telling their story with heart. The jury listened, and David felt a wave of hope wash over him. He realized they were not alone in this fight.
The moment the verdict was announced felt surreal. David and Laura held their breath, and when the jury ruled in their favor, tears of relief filled David’s eyes. They received the compensation they needed to cover medical bills and support their family during recovery. More importantly, they felt a sense of justice.
David’s life slowly returned to normal, but he would never forget the experience. Tom Ryan and his team had given him more than just legal support; they had given him hope when he felt lost. David realized that hiring the right Cleveland truck accident attorneys made all the difference.
Reopening of State Route 128 and Truck Accidents
Ohio’s state Route 128 has reopened to traffic following a crash that closed the road between Cleves and Interstate 275 for more than four hours. A large truck was involved in this incident, which caused authorities to close down the roadway at around 2:00 PM Tuesday afternoon. The highway is now open again as of 6:00 PM same day evening due to efforts from our maintenance crews who work tirelessly on keeping Ohio’s roads safe.
Police and Medical officials say that multiple injuries were reported on the scene of what is believed to be a car accident. Air Care was called and one person has been transported to University Medical Center for treatment. The crash happened around 2:00 PM, but it’s still unclear how many people are injured or if this incident will slow down traffic in the area tonight.
The history of trucks’ integrity and safety along roads are unpleasant since then as they have the highest accident tendencies and has the most damaged dealt among pedestrians and surrounding properties. Contributions of trucks’ weight and speed, is its cargoes’ contents that does the most collateral damage in the retrospect. In cases, cargoes affects the condition of road, causes harm to surround road users and individuals depending on the content and as well as to its driver, it would be fortunate enough that most collisions occurred with trucks didn’t cause to outbalance both vehicles.
Truck Tendencies and Must-Knows
Even though newer and faster means of transport are being invented by the day, trucking is still one of the most suitable ways to get goods across America. With about 70% all products reaching their destination via a type’s trucks making them so popular among big companies like FedEx or UPS that rely on these services for business purposes every single day and these statistics express their tendencies in accordance to an article by PolicyAdvice:
- An increase of 52% in truck-related accidents has been observed since 2009.
- 68% in all truck accident fatalities are vehicle occupants.
- In the year 2018, male drivers has contributed 97% of all fatalities in related to trucks while females only has 3% as there are only 5.8% female drivers registered in US.
- In all truck collisions fatalities, 4% of them are dealt by trucks containing hazardous cargoes that usually ends up with explosions, explosions can happen when people are carrying dangerous substances in their vehicle. These materials include combustible liquids, explosives, oxidizing substances, radioactive material and flammable solids.
- 4,102 deaths were reported in 2017 and has resulted in 52% increase of truck accidents since 2009.
- 97% of truck accidents are involved with a private car, SUV, or van, given as an example with the report above.
- Big rigs are a menace on the roads, with 74% of all crashes resulting in fatal collisions. Big trucks and cars collide at high speeds; these types of accidents create an intense situation where being alive is not guaranteed for anyone involved.
- Trucks are deadly hazard when driving in construction zones. Up to 30% of fatal crashes and 12% of injury cases involve at least one truck wrecks per year on average.
What Causes Truck Collisions
Contrary to popular belief that drug abuse and drunk driving are top causes of truck collisions but, truck’s mechanical defects such as blown out tires and brake issues are among the top causes of these crashes. And in addition, The Large Truck Crash Causation Study conducted by FMCSA discovered that new tour routes and fatigue were two of most common causes for a crash, other causes are:
- as mentioned above, cargo weight as well contributes to potential damage
- weather and visibility
- road condition
How often are these collisions and when?
The people behind the wheel of a truck are more likely than not to be involved in an accident with another vehicle. The two most common types of accidents involve major roads and travelling between noon-3PM on weekdays especially on Tuesdays, while there is also a smaller chance that damage will occur on interstates or freeways.
Overturned truck accident resulted in a death of one man
A crash happened around 3:30 am Sunday on July 26 off Schiller Road near Lake Rd. at Clark County, according to Ohio State Highway Patrol, the victim was Robert Wood, 41-year old Medway resident and truck driver for a local construction company was found dead in his overturned vehicle situated in a creek in the said location. Officials discovered that he had been pinned upside down and drowned after heavy rains flooded an area of Bethel Twp where the accident occurred when they arrived on scene.
Schiller Road was closed in the area for a few hours as AT&T replaced downed lines from the accident, where the second vehicle struck on a utility post. One of them, who is not identified and uninjured by this time, crashed into one utility pole bringing it down with his car’s collision. Some wires were brought down too before being repaired back to their original state when everything reopened again after just a few short hours later on at dawn.
The reason behind a car crash happening last week had been traced back up towards not only one specific factor but many different ones coming together simultaneously all intertwining with each other such as: the cause of the said accident was human error on top of road and time condition, which made it hard to maneuver during dawn. This is because vision at that point in the day would be limited as well as support for steering a truck.
Driving at night or even dawn is difficult because of limited visibility. One would have a tough time maneuvering when they can’t even see what’s ahead or barely behind. This was proven to be true during an accident that occurred recently, where the cause for this terrible event came down to human error and road conditions which made it impossible for truck drivers who were operating their vehicles around dawn due to these limitations such as vision and support being too low especially since trucks are hard enough without adding these factors into account. Time of the day, weather and road condition are highly impactful when determining whether a car would crash. In statistics by NSC Injury Facts:
- Nighttime, though roads are less populated, contributes 35.88% to total accident in means of time of the day where day time contributes 64.12% (which is highly understandable because of high traffic volume which increases the chances of crashes).
- In 2019, there were 892 truck drivers and 569 occupants of truck were recorded as fatalities on road crashes involving a truck.
- Involvement rate of trucks in accident on 2019, where it is at its peak, is at 1.67.
The truck driver is at a higher risk of being in an accident, so there are many different things they can do to avoid or lessen this probability. They should be aware and alert for all other drivers on the road; following traffic laws such as using their blinkers when turning and staying within speed limits will make them less likely to crash into another car because it helps keep space between cars instead of tailgating like some people who don’t follow these guidelines get caught up in accidents with trucks more often than you’d think, in addition these tips may help:
- Avoid being too close-contact among other cars and the creation of your own blind spot.
- Never use your phone or any form of distraction while driving.
- Give explicit signal and clear information about when you are going to turn to warn small cars to give you space.
- Use high beam lights when needed.
- When injured from a collision, you can hire or call your Injury Lawyer to assist you in intricacies of filing an injury claim.
Related Blogs
Ryan Injury Lawyers helps those across Ohio including residents in:
Contact Ryan Injury Lawyers For Help With Your Truck Accident Case
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a truck accident in Cleveland, it is important to seek help right away. At Ryan Injury Lawyers, our team of Cleveland truck accident attorneys understands how overwhelming this time can be. You may be dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and the stress of recovery. We are here to help you navigate through these challenges and fight for the compensation you deserve.
When you contact our firm, you can schedule a free consultation. This means you can talk to us about your situation without worrying about any costs upfront. We believe that everyone deserves legal support, no matter their financial situation. At Ryan Injury Lawyers, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t have to pay us anything unless we win your case. If we are successful in getting you compensation for your injuries, that is when our fee comes into play.
Don’t wait to get the help you need. If you have been injured in a truck accident, reach out to Ryan Injury Lawyers today. Our dedicated team is ready to listen to your story and provide you with the legal assistance you need. Remember, you are not alone in this process, and we are committed to standing by your side every step of the way. Contact us now and take the first step towards getting the justice you deserve.
Client Reviews
The attorneys at Ryan Injury Lawyers treat you like family. They are extremely professional, kind, respectful and intelligently know the law. Highly recommend. They are well above par.