Several things can cause a truck accident, and getting drunk is one of them. When truck drivers drink and drive, it increases their chances of getting into a collision as it slows their reaction time and reflexes. If you find yourself in a crash with a drunk truck driver, you might be able to recover compensation. However, truck accident claims can be complex, requiring the expertise of a drunk truck accident lawyer in Detroit.
At Goodman Acker, P.C., our truck accident lawyers are experienced with these cases and have helped numerous victims receive fair compensation. When you contact us, we will carefully assess your case facts and determine if you have a valid claim, the chances of success, and your legal options. We will also advise you on your rights and do all we can to protect your interests.
Our initial consultations are free, so call us at 248-286-8100 to schedule one and start your compensation journey.
Our team at Goodman Acker, P.C., has decades of experience helping injured victims and has dedicated their careers to doing so. We have a 99% success rate and have recovered millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients. We also have an excellent relationship with those we’ve represented and have received several positive reviews.
Our attorneys know the laws applicable to drunk truck accident cases and how the Michigan legal system works. Having us represent you gives you a better chance at a favorable outcome when dealing with truck drivers, their insurance companies, and the trucking company they work for. We are available 24/7 and will prioritize your interests.
We work on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t have to worry about paying us until we secure a favorable outcome, and the percentage of our fees will be decided during the initial consultation. If you need a reliable law firm you can trust, contact us at 248-286-8100.
After a drunk truck accident, you may be able to hold one or more parties responsible.
Trucks are considered commercial vehicles, so truck drivers must ensure they drive with less than 0.4% blood alcohol content in their system. When a truck driver has more than this percentage of alcohol in their system, they are considered legally drunk, whether fully intoxicated or not. If an accident happens in that state, the truck driver will be liable and have to compensate the injured victim.
Trucking companies must train and screen drivers before hiring them. Therefore, if a truck company fails to do this and hires a driver with a DUI history, it will be liable for any accident caused by the trucker. Under the doctrine of vicarious liability, the trucking company can also be liable for a drunk truck accident even if the driver has no DUI history.
A retail licensee sells liquor to the general public. Under Michigan’s Dram Shop law, retail licensees are not to sell or provide alcohol to “visibly intoxicated” persons. If a truck driver is already impaired, and a retail licensee sells them more alcohol and allows them to get behind the wheel of their truck afterward, they are liable to pay compensation to an injured party.
Michigan is a No-Fault state, meaning that fault does not play a role in accidents. Also, trucks are classified as vehicles, so truck and passenger car drivers must have No-Fault insurance. If you have No-Fault insurance, it will be your first recourse after an accident.
Your insurance company will pay you benefits for all reasonable medical expenses, lost wages if your injuries kept you from work, and attendant care services. However, the payment does not cover non-economic damages. Also, No-Fault benefits only apply if your injuries were minor and you suffered no disability or disfigurement.
However, if your injuries are severe, or you suffered a disability or disfigurement, you can file a third-party claim or lawsuit against the truck driver. If the truck company or a retail licensee are partly to blame, you can sue them for compensation. A court case allows you to recover economic and non-economic damages covering your:
Having questions after an accident with a drunk truck driver is common, and the following are some of the ones we frequently encounter:
What should I do immediately after a drunk truck accident?
Seek medical attention for yourself and anyone involved in the accident, then contact law enforcement to report the incident. Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage and any injuries. Also, obtain contact information from witnesses and refrain from discussing fault or liability with anyone at the scene, including the truck driver.
How can a lawyer help me after a drunk truck accident?
We will investigate the accident to determine liability, gather evidence such as police reports and witness statements, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and represent you in court if a lawsuit is filed.
Is there a time limit for filing a lawsuit after a drunk truck accident?
Yes. You have three years from when the accident happened, and once the time elapses, you can no longer seek compensation.
Can I still file a lawsuit if the truck driver was acquitted of DUI charges?
You can still file a lawsuit for damages resulting from the accident, regardless of the outcome of criminal charges against the truck driver.
When you hire our law firm, you will gain from our years of experience and extensive knowledge of federal and state trucking regulations. Our lawyers will thoroughly investigate the circumstances and build a strong case for you based on our findings. We are also skilled negotiators and will engage with insurance companies and other parties involved in the case to seek a settlement that fully addresses your needs.
If we cannot reach a fair settlement, we will take your case to court and advocate for your rights before the judge or jury. We offer compassionate representation and aggressively go after the party responsible for your accident. You can always count on us to give you a listening ear and fight for your interests.
At Goodman Acker, P.C., we aim to maximize your compensation. We will fight tirelessly to ensure that you are fairly compensated for the harm you have suffered due to the negligence of the truck driver and any other responsible parties. We will also keep you informed at every step and answer any questions you may have. Contact us at 248-286-8100 to schedule a free case evaluation.