Alaska Trucking Accident Lawyers
Helping You Overcome Your Struggles

Anyone who's spent time on the roads of Alaska understands that large trucks are a constant almost anywhere you go.  Those who drive such vehicles have a high degree of training, but that doesn't eliminate mistakes.  In fact, when large trucking accidents occur, they often leave behind a wake of devastation.

If you or someone you love has been injured or worse in a trucking accident, you need to contact the Alaska trucking accident lawyers at Barber & Sims immediately to schedule a free initial consultation.  In the meantime, below you'll find information regarding the technicalities that can arise if you pursue a claim against a truck driver and/or a trucking company.

Alaska Trucking Accidents - Technicalities that Can Arise

When someone is involved in a trucking accident in which the truck driver is at fault, it would seem for most to be a relatively straightforward process in regards to attaching liability to that negligent driver. 

However, there are several variables that need to be considered, all of which would be greatly aided by the help of an experienced Alaska trucking accident lawyer.  

The first issue that could arise is the proper identity of the defendant or the defendants.  Specifically, if a truck driver is working as an employee for a trucking company and negligently causes a trucking accident that leads to injuries, it's likely that both the individual truck driver and the trucking company would be named as defendants to the lawsuit that follows.

However, if the truck driver is operating as an independent contractor or is a sole proprietor, the situation becomes more complicated.  There are likely contractual terms in place that would shield the trucking company from liability incurred by the driver, but those contracts are not always going to be upheld should a claim be filed.

Secondly, the issue of discovery can be filled with difficulties if someone chooses to attempt to hold a trucker and/or a trucking company accountable.  The federal government oversees and regulates the trucking industry, and there are several rules and regulations in place that require proper documentation of the driver's log, the cargo he or she is carrying and how and when the cargo was loaded, among many other rules and norms that those who are not truck drivers or attorneys may not be aware of.

Many personal injury lawsuits are won and lost at the discovery stage, which occurs after the claim has been filed but before any trial is held.  The basic thrust of discovery is to exchange evidence so that each party to a lawsuit has an opportunity to build a case.  Discovery can occur by way of the exchange of documents and depositions, and it must be handled properly to ensure that your claim is given the best chance to succeed.

Alaska Trucking Accident Lawyers - How to Proceed

If you or someone you love has been harmed in a trucking accident, you should not attempt to handle all of these regulations and technicalities by yourself, particularly if you are working against a large trucking corporation.  Contact the Alaska trucking accident attorneys at Barber & Sims today to schedule a free consultation, as the firm has years of experience in holding negligent truck drivers and trucking companies accountable.