Phoenix Truck Accident Lawyer

Why Choose the Phoenix Truck Accident Attorneys at Kurtz Riley Law Group?

At Kurtz Riley Law Group, we understand the devastating impact a truck accident can have on your life. Our experienced Phoenix truck accident attorneys have a proven track record of success in motor vehicle accident cases. We have recovered $200+ million for our clients, helping them reshape their circumstances after a tragic crash.

Conveniently located in the heart of Scottsdale at 10609 N Hayden Rd., Suite 106, just a short drive from downtown Phoenix, our office is easily accessible to clients throughout the Valley.

We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you do not owe us a dime unless we win your case.

Phoenix Truck Accident Compensation

If you’ve suffered an injury in a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses.

This can include:

• Medical expenses, including hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing care
• Lost income and future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage

The value of your case will depend on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of your losses, and the circumstances surrounding the accident. Our experienced Phoenix truck accident lawyers will investigate your case and work with experts to determine the full extent of your damages.

Understanding Arizona Truck Accident Laws and Regulations

Arizona’s truck accident laws combine state regulations with federal requirements, creating a legal framework that affects your rights after an accident. Here’s what you need to know:

Federal Hours of Service Rules

Commercial truck drivers in Arizona must follow strict federal regulations limiting their driving time:

• Maximum 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
• No driving beyond 14 consecutive hours after coming on duty
• Required 30-minute breaks after 8 consecutive hours of driving
• Maximum 60/70 hours on duty in 7/8 consecutive days

Arizona-Specific Truck Regulations

Our state enforces additional requirements for commercial vehicles:

• Special commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) with regular renewals and testing
• Strict weight limits and regular weigh station checks
• Mandatory vehicle inspections and maintenance records
• Specific route restrictions for hazardous materials

Phoenix Statute of Limitations

You have two years from the date of your truck accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Arizona. However, if your claim involves a government entity, you must file a notice of claim within 180 days.

Comparative Negligence Rules

Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence system, meaning:

• You can recover damages even if you’re partially at fault
• Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault
• You can recover damages even if you’re almost completely at fault, though your recovery will be minimal

Insurance Requirements

Commercial trucks in Arizona must carry substantially higher insurance coverage than passenger vehicles:

• Minimum $750,000 in liability coverage for general freight
• Up to $5 million for hazardous materials
• Additional coverage requirements based on cargo type and weight

Documentation Requirements

Trucking companies must maintain extensive records:

• Driver qualification files
• Vehicle maintenance records
• Hours of service logs
• Drug and alcohol testing results
• Accident reports

These strict regulations exist to protect public safety. Understanding these laws helps establish liability and maximize your compensation after a truck accident.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident?

Truck accidents often involve multiple responsible parties, making these cases more complicated than typical car accidents. Potentially liable parties include:

The Truck Driver

• Liability for violations of federal hours-of-service regulations
• Driving under the influence or distracted driving
• Failing to maintain proper licenses and certifications
• Violating traffic laws or driving recklessly

The Trucking Company

• Negligent hiring practices or inadequate background checks
• Failure to properly train and supervise drivers
• Pushing drivers to violate hours-of-service rules
• Inadequate vehicle maintenance policies
• Improper loading procedures or weight violations

The Cargo Loading Company

• Improperly secured cargo
• Overloaded trailers
• Unbalanced weight distribution
• Failure to follow proper loading protocols

Vehicle or Parts Manufacturers

• Defective truck components
• Faulty braking systems
• Tire defects
• Other mechanical failures

Maintenance Providers

• Inadequate repairs
• Failure to identify safety issues
• Using substandard replacement parts
• Improper inspection procedures

Government Entities

• Poor road design or maintenance
• Inadequate signage
• Defective traffic signals
• Failure to address known hazardous conditions

Third-Party Contractors

• Other companies involved in the trucking operation
• Leasing companies
• Companies responsible for route planning
• Safety compliance consultants

Identifying all potentially liable parties plays a part in maximizing injured truck accident victims’ compensation. This is why working with an experienced truck accident attorney is essential. We thoroughly investigate every aspect of the accident to uncover all sources of liability.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Here are some frequent factors contributing to truck crashes in Phoenix and beyond:

Driver Fatigue

Long hours on the road can lead to drowsy driving, a major cause of commercial truck accidents.

Distracted Driving

Use of mobile devices or other distractions can take a commercial truck driver’s attention off the road.

Speeding

Excessive speed, especially in poor weather conditions, significantly increases the risk of truck collisions.

Improper Loading

Overloaded or improperly secured cargo can cause a truck to become unstable or tip over.

Poor Maintenance

Neglecting regular maintenance of commercial trucks can lead to mechanical failures and accidents.

Inadequate Training

Insufficient training of commercial truck drivers by trucking companies can result in dangerous situations on the road.

Drug or Alcohol Use

Impaired driving is particularly dangerous when large trucks are involved.

Aggressive Driving

Tailgating, sudden lane changes, or other aggressive behaviors can lead to serious accidents.

Weather Conditions

Rain, fog, or other adverse weather can make it difficult for truck drivers to maintain control of their vehicles.

Defective Parts

Faulty brakes, tires, or other truck components can cause accidents even when drivers are being cautious.

Unfamiliarity with Routes

Truck drivers navigating unfamiliar roads may make errors that lead to accidents.

Pressure from Trucking Companies

Unrealistic schedules or pressure to meet deadlines can push drivers to take risks.

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, it’s important to work with experienced truck accident lawyers who understand these complex factors. A skilled Phoenix truck accident attorney can investigate the cause of your accident, identify liable parties (which may include the truck driver, trucking company, or even parts manufacturers), and help you pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Remember, truck accident cases often involve serious injuries and can be more complex than typical vehicle accidents. Don’t hesitate to seek legal help from a reputable personal injury law firm that understands in commercial truck accidents. Many offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explain your legal options.

Where Do Truck Accidents Occur in Phoenix?

Truck accidents can happen anywhere, but some areas of Phoenix are particularly dangerous for motorists. Some of the most common locations for truck accidents in Phoenix include:

• I-10, particularly near the Stack interchange with I-17
• I-17, especially the stretch between Dunlap Avenue and Deer Valley Road
• Loop 101, particularly the section near Scottsdale Road
• US 60, especially near the Superstition Freeway interchange

These high-traffic areas see many large trucks, increasing the risk of serious accidents. However, truck accidents can occur on any road, from busy highways to quiet residential streets.

Types of Truck Accidents on Phoenix Roads

Many different types of truck accidents can occur on Phoenix roads, including:

• Rear-end collisions
• Jackknife accidents
• Rollover crashes
• Underride accidents
• Blind spot accidents
• Wide turn accidents

Each type of accident presents its own unique challenges and potential for serious injury. Our experienced Phoenix truck accident lawyers handle cases involving all types of truck accidents and know how to build strong cases for our clients.

Common Truck Accident Injuries

Due to the size and weight of large trucks, accidents involving these vehicles often result in severe injuries for occupants of smaller passenger vehicles. Some of the most common injuries we see in truck accident cases include:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones
• Internal organ damage
• Burns
• Lacerations
• Whiplash

These injuries can have long-lasting effects, requiring extensive medical treatment and impacting every aspect of a victim’s life. Our Phoenix truck accident attorneys understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these injuries can take and are dedicated to helping our clients secure the resources they need to move forward.

Kurtz Riley Law Group Helps You Fight the Insurance Company

After a truck accident, you may be contacted by representatives from the trucking company’s insurance provider. These people may seem friendly and concerned about your well-being, but remember their primary goal is to protect their company’s bottom line.

Insurance adjusters may try to get you to accept a quick settlement offer or give a recorded statement about the accident. However, these tactics are designed to limit the company’s liability and may not fully compensate you for your losses.

That’s why it’s so important to have an experienced Phoenix truck accident lawyer on your side. Our attorneys at Kurtz Riley Law Group know how to deal with insurance companies and will fight to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. We will handle all communication with the insurance provider, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

Semi Truck Accidents FAQs

What should I do after a truck accident in Phoenix?

After a truck accident, prioritize safety and medical attention.

Then, contact a Phoenix truck accident lawyer to protect your rights and discuss potential truck accident claims.

How can a Phoenix truck accident attorney help me?

An experienced truck accident attorney can investigate your case, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue maximum compensation for truck accident victims.

What types of compensation can I recover in a truck accident case?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to your truck accident injuries.

How long do I have to file a truck accident lawsuit in Phoenix?

The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit in Arizona is typically two years from the date of the accident. Consult a truck accident lawyer promptly to ensure you meet all deadlines.

What are the common causes of truck accidents?

Common causes include driver fatigue, improper maintenance, overloaded trucks, and truck driver’s negligence. An experienced attorney can help determine liability in your truck accident case.

How are truck accidents different from car accidents?

Truck accidents often involve more severe injuries, complex liability issues, and multiple parties such as the truck driver, trucking company, and insurance companies. This complexity necessitates the expertise of specialized truck accident attorneys.

What evidence is important in a truck accident claim?

Crucial evidence may include accident reports, the truck’s electronic data recorder, witness statements, and records from the trucking company. A skilled lawyer will help gather and analyze this evidence.

Can I sue the trucking company for my injuries?

Yes, in many cases, you can pursue a claim against the trucking company as well as the truck driver. Your attorney will help determine all liable parties in your truck accident lawsuit.

How much does it cost to hire a Phoenix truck accident lawyer?

Most reputable truck accident lawyers offer a free consultation and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if they secure compensation for you.

What if I’ve lost a loved one in a fatal truck accident?

If you’ve lost a family member in a truck crash, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit. An experienced personal injury law firm can guide you through this process and help you seek justice.

Call a Phoenix Truck Accident Lawyer Today

If you have suffered an injury in a truck accident in Phoenix, don’t wait to seek legal help. The experienced attorneys at Kurtz Riley Law Group are here to stand up for your rights and fight for the compensation you need to move forward.

Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation with a Phoenix truck accident lawyer. We’ll listen to your story, answer your questions, and provide honest advice about your legal options. With Kurtz Riley Law Group on your side, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal details.

Don’t let a truck accident derail your life. Call our Phoenix personal injury attorney at Kurtz Riley Law Group today at (623) 303-5754.