Legally Reviewed and Edited by: Terry Cochran

Published on: January 31, 2025

Truck crashes are devastating events that often result in severe injuries, financial losses, and emotional trauma for victims. With large trucks weighing up to 80,000 pounds and sharing the road with smaller vehicles, the potential for catastrophic damage is immense.

In Michigan, semi-trucks are involved in thousands of crashes each year. There were 14,037 truck collisions in 2023, resulting in 103 tragic fatalities. If you’ve been involved in an accident with a semi-truck, you might feel overwhelmed by questions about your legal rights, compensation options, and the next steps.

Trucking accident legal help can provide clarity and guidance. Learn how an experienced truck accident attorney from Cochran, Kroll, & Associates, P.C. can help you gather vital evidence, negotiate with trucking company insurers, and pursue fair compensation for your injuries.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Michigan

Understanding the common causes of truck accidents is crucial when building a strong personal injury case. Many collisions result from negligence or violations of safety regulations by truck drivers or trucking companies, which a skilled truck accident lawyer can investigate to support your claim. Some of the most frequent causes of semi-truck crashes include:

• Distracted driving by truck operators. Drivers who text, eat, or focus on anything other than the road can cause serious collisions, especially in heavy traffic or high speeds. Driver distraction accounts for around 8% of crashes nationwide.
• Fatigue from long hours on the road. Long shifts without adequate rest often lead to drowsy driving, which slows reaction times and impairs judgment. Accidents involving driver fatigue are responsible for 13% of big rig crashes.
• Speeding or reckless driving. Exceeding speed limits or driving aggressively makes it difficult to control a truck and avoid accidents. Drivers going too fast for conditions such as rain, ice, or uneven roads are the second-leading cause of collisions, accounting for 23% of crashes.
• Driving under the influence. Substances like alcohol, drugs, or specific medications can negatively affect a truck driver’s judgment and reaction time, leading to accidents. Approximately 3% of crashes involve alcohol or illegal drug use.
• Poor maintenance of trucks. Worn brakes, damaged tires, or malfunctioning lights can lead to mechanical failures that cause accidents. Brake issues are the primary cause of large truck accidents at 29%, while tire problems lead to 6% of collisions.
• Improperly loaded or overloaded cargo. Cargo that is unbalanced, unsecured, or exceeds weight limits can make trucks unstable and harder to control. Shifting cargo leads to 4% of big rig crashes nationwide.

Why You Need an Attorney for a Michigan Truck Accident Lawsuit

Truck accident compensation claims often involve multiple parties and complicated legal issues, making them harder to resolve than other types of cases. The following elements contribute to the complexity of truck accident cases:

• Multiple liable parties. Determining responsibility can be challenging when the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, or manufacturers share the blame. Victims often face delays as each party shifts blame, complicating efforts to identify who owes compensation.
• Federal and state regulations. FMCSA rules regulate everything in the truck industry—from driver hours to trailer and cab maintenance—and violations can impact liability. Victims must prove these violations occurred, often requiring detailed evidence and knowledge of the laws.
• Extensive investigations. Truck accident cases rely on evidence like driver logs, black box data, and maintenance records, which aren’t always easy to access. A delay in gathering key information can make it harder to build a case quickly.
• Severe injuries and damages. Victims often suffer life-altering injuries that lead to overwhelming medical bills, long-term care needs, and lost wages. The high stakes mean insurers will scrutinize every aspect of the claim to limit payouts.
• Insurance company pushback. Trucking companies often carry high insurance policies, sometimes up to $5 million, prompting insurers to aggressively protect their profits. They frequently undervalue or deny claims, forcing victims into challenging negotiations to secure rightful compensation.

Given these challenges, working with a skilled truck accident attorney can make the process smoother and strengthen your claim. Their expertise allows them to manage investigations, negotiate with insurers, and seek the full compensation you deserve.

How a Lawyer Helps After a Serious Truck Crash

Are you wondering how a truck accident lawyer can help after a serious crash? Here’s how qualified truck collision attorneys at Cochran, Kroll, & Associates, P.C, can assist with your case:

Investigate the Crash

A comprehensive investigation is crucial for building a strong truck accident claim. These cases require meticulous attention to detail due to the complexities of commercial vehicle operations and strict industry regulations. Here’s how our truck accident lawyers conduct a thorough investigation:

• Gather critical evidence. We collect police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and surveillance recordings. We also obtain black box data and electronic logging device (ELD) records, which reveal key details like speed, brake usage, and hours driven.
• Review maintenance and inspection history. We analyze vehicle maintenance reports and inspection records to uncover potential safety issues, such as worn-out brakes or missed repairs.
• Evaluate FMCSA compliance. Our team verifies adherence to federal regulations, including proper weight limits, routine inspections, and driving hours limits, which can highlight negligence by drivers or trucking companies.
• Work with accident reconstruction experts. Recreating the crash helps identify specific causes, such as driver mistakes, equipment failures, or poor road conditions. Our attorneys work with these experts to analyze evidence and present proof of fault.

Identify Responsible Parties

Truck accident cases often involve multiple liable parties, each contributing to the crash in different ways. We look for the following to identify who’s responsible for your injuries and file a claim against them:

• Driver actions at the time of the crash. We assess whether the truck driver or others were speeding, distracted, impaired, or making unsafe maneuvers.
• Vehicle condition. A lawyer can examine maintenance records and inspect the truck for worn brakes, tire issues, or mechanical failures that could have contributed to the accident.
• Cargo loading. Improperly secured or overloaded cargo is reviewed to determine whether the shipper or loader contributed to the crash.
• Driving history. Your legal team can review the truck driver’s record, including prior violations or crashes, to identify patterns of negligence.
• Other vehicles’ involvement. Actions by other drivers, such as sudden braking, unsafe lane changes, or tailgating, are investigated to determine if they contributed to the crash.
• Road conditions. We examine poorly maintained roads or dangerous designs, such as faded lane markings or sharp curves, to determine if a municipality or transportation department contributed to the crash.

Handle Insurance Company Communication

Dealing with insurance companies after a truck accident can be frustrating and intimidating. Insurers often use tactics to minimize payouts, such as shifting blame onto victims or undervaluing the extent of their injuries. A skilled truck accident lawyer steps in to level the playing field by:

• Negotiating with insurers. We handle all communication, using evidence to counter lowball offers and push for settlements that reflect the true scope of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Protecting your statements. Attorneys guide truck accident victims on what to say and avoid when speaking with insurers. For example, they can prevent a simple comment like “I didn’t see the truck” from being misinterpreted as an admission of fault.
• Identifying all available coverage. Our lawyers carefully examine insurance policies to uncover every possible source of compensation, such as liability coverage, underinsured motorist protection, and cargo insurance.

Represent You in Court

A truck accident lawyer will take your case to court if negotiations fail to result in a fair settlement. Their courtroom representation includes:

• Filing the lawsuit and handling pre-trial motions. We prepare the case for court by managing all legal documents, motions, and discovery requests, ensuring compliance with procedural rules.
• Presenting evidence to the jury. We use crash reconstructions, expert witness testimony, and financial records to demonstrate the extent of your losses and the other party’s negligence.
• Arguing your case before the judge and jury. A skilled lawyer can deliver compelling opening statements, present thorough arguments, and make a persuasive closing to advocate for your compensation.
• Seeking full compensation for your losses. Your legal team will calculate all damages, including medical expenses, lost income, and non-economic harm, and fight for the full amount you need to recover.

How To File Truck Accident Compensation Claims

A truck crash can be overwhelming and disorienting, but your actions immediately after the incident can affect your recovery and the success of your legal case. Here’s a guide on the crucial steps to take:

Call 911

After any truck crash, the first priority is ensuring safety and summoning emergency services. Call 911 to report the accident, request medical assistance, and have law enforcement document the incident.

• Medical attention. Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical evaluation. Some injuries, such as internal trauma or whiplash, may not show immediate symptoms.
• Police report. Officers will create an official accident report, which is critical evidence for insurance claims and legal proceedings.

Document the Scene

• Photographs. Capture pictures of the accident scene, focusing on vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signals, and any visible injuries.
• Witness information. Collect the names and contact details of any witnesses who can corroborate your account of the crash.
• Driver and vehicle details. Note the truck driver’s name, contact information, license plate, and trucking company. If applicable, document the truck’s DOT number and any visible violations, such as improperly secured cargo.

Avoid Speaking to Insurers

Trucking companies and their insurers often act quickly to protect their interests after a crash. They may attempt to contact you for a statement or offer a quick settlement.

• Do not admit fault. Even casual remarks like “I’m sorry” could be misconstrued as an admission of guilt.
• Refer inquiries to your attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and inform the insurer that your lawyer will handle all communications.

Seek Immediate Legal Guidance

When dealing with a trucking company and its insurers, you need experienced legal guidance. Consult a qualified truck accident lawyer to protect your rights. Schedule a free consultation as soon as possible to discuss your case and learn your legal options.

Your lawyer can act quickly to secure critical evidence, such as black box data, driver logs, and maintenance records, which may otherwise be lost or destroyed.

Follow Through on Medical Care

After the initial emergency treatment, continue to follow your doctor’s recommendations. Consistent medical care promotes healing and creates a documented record of your injuries and their impact.

• Keep records. Save all medical reports, prescriptions, and bills. These documents will play a vital role in calculating compensation for your injuries.
• Track symptoms. Maintain a journal of your pain levels, emotional distress, and physical limitations to provide additional evidence for your claim.

Notify Your Insurance Company

While avoiding communication with the trucking company’s insurer, you should notify your own insurance provider about the accident. Provide basic details, but avoid making speculative statements about fault or injuries.

Stay Organized

Truck accident cases involve extensive documentation. Keep all records, including:

• Police reports
• Medical bills and treatment plans
• Pay stubs to prove lost wages
• Receipts for additional expenses, such as transportation to medical appointments

Why Choose Cochran, Kroll, & Associates, P.C.?

At Cochran, Kroll & Associates, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that truck crashes can take on victims and their families. Our team of knowledgeable truck accident attorneys provides compassionate, results-driven representation to help you rebuild your life after a serious accident.

• Proven results. Our team has handled many truck accident cases, achieving substantial settlements for clients. Our results include a $1.3 million award for a family whose young son was struck and killed by a semi-truck in Marlette, Michigan. These outcomes reflect our skill in managing challenging legal and insurance processes.
• Resources and experience. Truck accident cases often require extensive resources, including accident reconstruction specialists, medical experts, and vocational consultants. Our legal team has access to these professionals to establish a strong case.
• Client-centered approach. At Cochran, Kroll & Associates, P.C., we prioritize open communication and personalized service. You’ll work with an attorney who understands your unique situation and is committed to achieving the best possible outcome.
• Medical expertise. Eileen Kroll, a registered nurse and partner attorney, uses her medical and legal knowledge to strengthen your case. She collaborates with doctors and specialists to account for immediate medical care, long-term treatments, and future expenses, maximizing the compensation you receive.

Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

If you or a loved one has suffered from a devastating truck crash, you deserve more than generic advice—you need a powerful advocate in your corner. Don’t let insurance companies diminish your suffering or undervalue your case.

Contact us for a free consultation. Our dedicated truck accident lawyers will fight tirelessly for the compensation and peace of mind you deserve.

Our contingency fee basis means we only get paid if we win your case, so there is no financial risk to you to get started. Call our law firm today at 1-866-MICH-LAW and schedule your no-obligation, free case evaluation.

Disclaimer : The information provided is general and not for legal advice. The blogs are not intended to provide legal counsel and no attorney-client relationship is created nor intended.