Taking On Trucking Companies For Decades

The size of tractor-trailers, semi trucks, 18-wheelers and other commercial trucks makes them especially hazardous in a crash. After a serious accident involving a large truck, you will almost certainly have painful and expensive injuries.

If you have bills and other damages from a trucking accident, Waara Law is available to help you. For nearly three decades, I have stood up for hurt clients throughout Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. This longevity is rooted in a dedication to fighting for positive results. This is true even if it means taking on powerful trucking companies and insurance corporations.

I’m Jonny Waara, the firm’s founding attorney, and I take a variety of cases, including those involving:

• Distracted truck drivers
• Truck driver fatigue
• Drunk or drugged driving
• Speeding
• Faulty truck parts
• Dangerous cargo loading
• Fatal truck accidents
• Improper maintenance
• Inadequate driver training

My firm has earned respect from clients and peers alike for my tough approach to personal injury claims. When I sit down with you, I am compassionate and empathetic. When I work with the other party, I am strong and assertive.

Types Of Commercial Vehicles I Handle

When a large commercial vehicle causes an accident, the injuries can be devastating. I represent clients hurt in crashes involving all types of commercial trucks and vehicles:

• Big rigs and tractor-trailers
• Dump trucks and construction vehicles
• Delivery trucks
• Garbage trucks and waste haulers
• School buses and charter buses
• Tanker trucks carrying hazardous materials
• Flatbed trucks with unsecured cargo

Each type of commercial vehicle comes with unique dangers and legal challenges. These require thorough investigation.

Understanding The Causes Behind Truck Accidents

Driver fatigue from working too long and skipped vehicle inspections lead to many avoidable accidents. Beyond the basic causes, I investigate these specific factors:

• Inadequate training or experience
• Aggressive driving and road rage
• Improper lane changes and blind spot accidents
• Failure to adjust for weather conditions
• Brake system malfunctions
• Tire blowouts from poor maintenance
• Steering defects and lighting problems
• Hiring unqualified drivers
• Pressuring drivers to violate safety rules
• Failing to maintain fleet vehicles properly
• Overloaded trucks exceeding weight limits
• Improperly secured loads
• Uneven weight distribution causing rollovers

These factors often merge to create the perfect storm for a devastating and preventable accident.

Serious Injuries From Truck Crashes

The massive size difference between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles often leads to horrific injuries. I have handled cases involving:

• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Traumatic brain injuries with lasting effects
• Internal organ damage requiring surgery
• Severe bone fractures and crush injuries
• Burn injuries from fuel spills
• Amputations and permanent disfigurement
• Psychological trauma, including PTSD

These life-changing injuries require long-term medical care and rehabilitation that can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Critical Evidence In Truck Accident Cases

Electronic logging device data records the truck’s speed and braking patterns, while driver logs show compliance with legal driving limits. I work quickly to preserve crucial evidence, including:

• Black box data from the truck’s computer system
• Maintenance records and inspection reports
• Company safety records and training documents
• Drug and alcohol test results
• Video footage from dashcams and traffic cameras
• Witness statements and accident reconstruction reports

Time is critical because trucking companies often destroy records after short retention periods, making immediate action essential.

Federal Regulations That Protect You

Trucking companies must follow both federal and Michigan safety rules. When trucking companies break the law, I can use these violations as evidence of negligence:

• Driver qualification and licensing requirements
• Mandatory vehicle inspections and maintenance standards
• Hours-of-service limits restricting drivers to 11 hours of driving per day
• Weight and load distribution limits
• Drug testing and medical certification rules

Michigan allows heavier trucks than most states, up to 164,000 pounds versus the typical 80,000-pound limit. When trucking companies break these rules, it helps prove your case.

Full Compensation For Your Losses

Truck accident victims deserve compensation that covers all their damages. I fight to recover:

• All medical expenses, including future treatment costs
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering from your injuries
• Emotional distress and loss of life enjoyment
• Property damage to your vehicle
• Loss of consortium for your family

Michigan’s no-fault insurance covers basic medical expenses, but in severe cases involving death, serious impairment of body function or permanent disfigurement, victims can file lawsuits for additional compensation.

Why Choose Me For Your Truck Accident Case

Trucking companies deploy teams of lawyers immediately after crashes to minimize their liability and shift blame to you, even when their driver or company caused the accident. Truck accidents often involve multiple liable parties beyond just the driver, including the trucking company, maintenance providers or cargo loaders.

You need an attorney who understands their tactics and won’t be intimidated. I guide clients through every step of the legal process while bringing:

• Nearly three decades of experience fighting powerful trucking companies
• Deep knowledge of federal trucking regulations and Michigan laws
• Immediate investigation and evidence preservation
• Resources to hire accident reconstruction and medical professionals
• Skilled negotiation with multiple insurance companies and their attorneys
• A proven track record of recovering millions for injured clients
• Local Upper Peninsula knowledge that provides courtroom advantages
• Willingness to take cases to trial when necessary for maximum recovery

Commercial trucks must carry minimum insurance coverage of $750,000, with some carrying up to $5 million depending on cargo type, ensuring adequate funds are available for serious injury claims. When you’re facing medical bills, lost income and life-changing injuries, you need an attorney who will fight aggressively for every dollar you deserve.

What Should You Do Immediately After A Truck Accident In Michigan?

First, move to a safe location if possible to ensure your safety and that of others. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance. If possible, get contact information from anyone who may have witnessed the truck accident.

Even if you feel fine, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. This helps uncover injuries that may not be immediately apparent while creating a chain of powerful medical evidence for your accident claim.

You should also contact an experienced truck accident attorney to help you file a strong accident claim and to protect your rights. They can help you gather evidence and present a compelling claim.

How Long Do You Have To File A Claim For A Truck Accident In Michigan?

Injured truck accident victims have three years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury claim in Michigan. It is vital to act promptly to ensure evidence is preserved and witness memories are fresh. If you miss the three-year statute of limitations, you may lose your right to compensation.

Can You Still Pursue Compensation If The Truck Driver Is Not Insured?

Yes, you can still seek financial compensation even if the truck driver is uninsured. Michigan law requires all drivers to carry no-fault insurance, which provides personal injury protection (PIP) benefits in an accident.

Additionally, you may have uninsured motorist coverage as part of your own insurance policy, which can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In other words, if the at-fault truck driver is uninsured, your own insurance company will step in to provide compensation for your injuries and losses.

After A Trucking Crash, Ask About A Free Consultation

You do not have to take on the complex nature of a truck accident claim on your own. Let me help you pursue justice. To make a completely free initial consultation, please call the firm locally at 906-351-5545 or send an email. I have an office in Negaunee.