Semi-trucks are huge vehicles capable of causing significant damage to other cars on the road. Unfortunately, trucks in Rock Hill are often involved in side impact accidents due to their size and the limited visibility they provide drivers.
Commercial vehicle operators have the same responsibility as other motorists to drive safely on the roadways. When they fail to do so and cause an accident, victims may be able to hold them accountable through a truck accident lawsuit.
If you or someone you know was involved in a T-bone collision, you might be able to recover damages for your injuries. A knowledgeable attorney could review your situation and explain your legal options.
When a Driver is at Fault
Truck drivers can be found at fault if the plaintiff proves the three elements of a successful negligence claim. First, the injured party must present evidence that the defendant owed them a duty of care. Proving this element could be straightforward, as all drivers assume a duty to act as a reasonably prudent person would on the roadway.
Next, the injured part must prove that the defendant breached the duty of care while operating the motor vehicle. For example, a Rock Hill truck driver may drift into another lane and cause a side impact collision. If the driver did not signal and check blind spots before changing lanes, they violated the duty to exercise reasonable care on the roadway.
Finally, the defendant must have caused the injuries to the plaintiff. The plaintiff must establish that an injury would not have occurred “but for” the negligence of the defendant. In the example of the drifting truck driver, injuries to the victim would not have occurred if the truck driver did not fail to check blind spots before switching lanes.
For a free legal consultation with a Rock Hill Side-Impact Truck Accident Lawyer call 1-803-366-0333
What if the Injured Party Was Negligent?
Side-impact collisions in Rock Hill are often complicated scenarios, and several parties may each bear some of the fault. Even if the injured party is negligent, however, courts may still allow them to recover some compensation under South Carolina Code of Laws §15-38-15. The court will assess each party’s percentage of responsibility before determining an award.
If the plaintiff was only 10 percent at fault, they can recover 90 percent of their total damages. However, plaintiffs who are more than 51 percent at fault may not recover damages in a negligence case.
Rock Hill Side-Impact Truck Accident Lawyer Near Me 1-803-366-0333
Seek Help from a Rock Hill Attorney After Your Side Impact Truck Accident
Truck accidents are quite common on Rock Hill roadways. Operators have demanding jobs that require extended hours and diligence on the road. If a semi-truck driver makes a seemingly small mistake, it can result in severe accidents and injuries to other motorists. Experienced attorneys have helped victims of side impact truck accidents in Rock Hill, and they may be able to help you too.
The aftermath of a truck accident can be a trying time for victims and their families. For assistance with your case, call Schiller & Hamilton today.
Call or text 1-803-366-0333 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form