Colorado Springs Truck Accident Lawyers

If you’ve recently been involved in a truck accident in Colorado Springs, The Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey and Ben Peterson is here to extend our hand and offer our legal experience to guide you through this challenging time. Our experienced team understands the confusion and worry that often accompanies such traumatic events. We empathize with your concerns about paying bills, seeking medical help, and navigating the complex legal process ahead.

Understanding the Impact

In 2022 alone, there were 1,946 reported truck accidents in Colorado, contributing to a staggering total of 168,320 such incidents across the United States. Sadly, these accidents led to 103 casualties in our state alone. Large trucks were involved in 11% of fatal car accidents here, with 97 such vehicles implicated in these tragic outcomes.

What Causes Truck Accidents in Colorado Springs?

Truck accidents in Colorado Springs can often be attributed to a variety of factors, many of which stem from lapses in safety standards and regulations. Understanding these causes is crucial for prevention and safety on the roads.

Regulatory Compliance Failures

Trucking companies have a duty to uphold federal and state safety regulations, which include:

• Fleet Maintenance: Ensuring all vehicles are regularly inspected and any mechanical issues are addressed immediately.
• Driver Qualifications: Making sure that drivers receive adequate training.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) provides guidelines to mitigate risks, such as fatigue and mechanical failures, by setting standards for driver working hours and vehicle upkeep.

Trucker Fatigue

One of the leading causes of truck accidents is driver fatigue. Fatigued drivers have slower reaction times and poor judgment, which increases the risk of accidents. The Hours of Service (HOS) regulations require drivers to rest adequately. However, not all companies enforce these rules diligently, which can lead to liability in case of accidents.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving has become a significant issue, with many truck operators using mobile devices, GPS, or other in-cab technologies while on the road. Even short distractions can result in severe accidents due to the massive size and reduced maneuverability of trucks. Simple actions like eating or conversing can divert a driver’s attention dangerously.

Driving Under the Influence

Operating a truck under the influence of drugs or alcohol is incredibly dangerous and unfortunately still occurs, despite severe penalties. This impairment greatly affects a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and ability to control the vehicle, leading to preventable accidents.

Loading Errors

Improper loading of cargo is another significant hazard. When cargo isn’t evenly distributed or secured properly, it may shift, causing instability. This can lead to rollovers or jackknife incidents, especially during abrupt maneuvers.

Additionally, trucks that are overloaded face longer braking distances and diminished control, increasing the likelihood of collisions. Strict regulations dictate loading procedures, but these are not always followed.

Insufficient Vehicle Maintenance

A lack of proper vehicle maintenance is another major contributor to truck accidents. Commercial vehicles need frequent inspections and repairs to ensure all parts are in good working order. However, cost-saving measures can result in postponed maintenance, which compromises safety.

By addressing these issues, trucking companies can significantly reduce the number of accidents and create a safer driving environment for everyone on the roads.

The Role of Impaired Driving in Truck Accidents

Driving under the influence significantly heightens the risk of truck accidents. Intoxication diminishes a driver’s ability to make sound decisions and respond promptly to road conditions. Here’s how DUI affects safety on the road:

• Delayed Reaction Times: Alcohol and drugs slow a driver’s reflexes. This delay can make it impossible to react in critical situations, like sudden braking or swerving to avoid an obstacle.

• Poor Judgment: Intoxicated drivers find it challenging to accurately assess distances and speeds. This can result in miscalculations when changing lanes or gauging traffic lights.

• Lack of Vehicle Control: Impairment impacts motor skills, making it difficult for drivers to handle large vehicles like trucks. This lack of control can lead to swerving or crossing lanes unexpectedly.

Even with strict laws and harsh penalties, some drivers underestimate these risks. Trucking companies can mitigate this by thoroughly vetting their drivers for a history of safe, sober driving. Implementing regular testing and education on the consequences of impaired driving can further ensure safer roadways.

How Does Distracted Driving Contribute to Truck Accidents?

Distracted driving plays a significant role in the occurrence of truck accidents. In today’s digital age, truck drivers often find themselves tempted by mobile devices. Whether it’s checking a text message, navigating with a GPS, or using in-cab technology, these distractions can be dangerous.

Even brief moments of lost focus can be disastrous, especially considering the massive size and weight of commercial trucks. The consequences are often severe because stopping or maneuvering a truck requires more time and space than smaller vehicles.

Common Distractions Include:

• Mobile Devices: Texting or app usage divides a driver’s attention.
• In-Cab Technologies: GPS systems and other tech can draw focus away from driving.
• Personal Activities: Eating, adjusting the radio, or talking can also detract from the road.

Each of these behaviors shifts attention from the road, reducing a driver’s ability to react swiftly to sudden changes in traffic or road conditions. Consequently, distracted driving significantly heightens the risk of an accident, making awareness and attentiveness crucial for safety.

Understanding the Impact of Trucker Fatigue on Accidents

Trucker fatigue plays a crucial role in many truck accidents, especially in areas like Colorado Springs. Fatigue affects a driver’s ability to react swiftly and make sound decisions, which are critical aspects of safe driving. When a truck driver is tired, their reaction times slow down considerably, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Moreover, fatigue can lead to impaired judgment. A tired driver might misjudge distances, speed, or road conditions, all of which can lead to dangerous situations on the road. Perhaps most alarmingly, trucker fatigue can result in microsleep episodes. These are brief, involuntary lapses into sleep that occur without warning, often while the vehicle is still in motion.

To address this, the Federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations were established. These rules stipulate mandatory rest periods and cap the maximum number of driving hours. Unfortunately, violations occur when trucking companies fail to ensure compliance, which can make both the driver and company liable for accidents caused by fatigue-related negligence. By adhering to these standards, the risks associated with trucker fatigue can be significantly reduced, promoting safer roads for everyone.

Common Types of Truck Accidents in Colorado Springs

Truck accidents in Colorado Springs can vary significantly, each with its own set of dangers and implications for those involved. Here’s a look at some of the most prevalent types:

• Rear-End Collisions: These are particularly hazardous when involving trucks, given their mass and speed. When a truck collides with the vehicle in front, the impact can cause severe injuries, such as whiplash and traumatic brain injuries due to the heavy force exerted.

• Jackknife Incidents: This happens when a truck’s trailer swings out at an angle, often due to sudden braking or poor load balance. Such accidents can obstruct multiple lanes, leading to potential multi-vehicle crashes.

• Rollover Accidents: These dangerous accidents occur when a truck tips onto its side or roof, often due to sharp turns or uneven weight distribution. Rollovers frequently result in significant injury or even fatalities.

• Tire Blowouts: A bursting tire can lead to loss of control, causing the truck to swerve or overturn. Overloaded vehicles, insufficient tire pressure, and lack of proper maintenance are common contributors. The resulting debris can create additional hazards on the road.

• Underride Crashes: These are among the most severe accidents, where a smaller vehicle slips under a truck’s rear or side, often with devastating consequences. They’re exacerbated by sudden stops and inadequate underride protection on trucks.

• Blind Spot Collisions: Due to the large blind spots around trucks, these accidents happen when smaller vehicles aren’t visible to truck drivers. Drivers need to exercise caution and ensure signals are used well in advance when changing lanes or merging.

Understanding these common types of accidents can help drivers be more cautious and aware, potentially reducing the occurrence of such tragic events.

How Poor Vehicle Maintenance Leads to Truck Accidents

Poor vehicle maintenance plays a significant role in causing truck accidents. Regular inspections and repairs are essential for ensuring that every part of a truck operates smoothly and reliably. However, failure to keep up with these maintenance routines can have disastrous consequences.

Key Maintenance Failures

1. Brake Malfunctions: One of the most critical components, brakes require constant attention. Neglected brakes can lead to longer stopping distances, especially in heavy commercial vehicles.

2. Tire Issues: Tires that are worn or improperly inflated can cause blowouts, leading to loss of control, especially at high speeds.

3. Steering and Suspension Problems: These systems directly impact the driver’s ability to maneuver safely. A lack of maintenance may result in reduced handling capability and increased accident risk.

4. Lighting Deficiencies: Malfunctioning lights might prevent other drivers from seeing the truck or miscommunicate the driver’s intentions, such as turning or stopping, increasing the likelihood of collisions.

The Impact of Cost-Cutting and Time Constraints

Trucking companies, in an effort to reduce expenses, might sidestep necessary maintenance routines. Additionally, tight schedules can push these vehicles onto the road without proper checks. Such practices increase the risk of mechanical failure, potentially causing severe accidents.

How Overloaded Trucks Contribute to Truck Accidents

Overloaded trucks are a significant factor in many road accidents. They pose a substantial hazard because they require longer distances to stop. This is due to the increased weight, which places greater demand on the braking system, making sudden stops nearly impossible.

Furthermore, excessive weight hampers a truck’s maneuverability. It becomes challenging for the driver to swiftly change lanes or avoid obstacles, increasing the likelihood of a collision.

To mitigate these risks, regulations specify how trucks should be loaded. However, failure to adhere to these guidelines is a persistent issue within the industry. This disregard for safety protocols often leads to dangerous outcomes on the road.

How Improperly Loaded Cargo Contributes to Truck Accidents

When cargo isn’t loaded properly, it can vastly increase the likelihood of truck accidents. Here’s how it happens:

1. Shifting Loads: If cargo isn’t secured, it can move around inside the truck. This shift can alter the center of gravity, making the vehicle unstable and difficult to control.

2. Uneven Weight Distribution: Improper loading can create imbalances that affect how the truck handles. Trucks with uneven weight are far more prone to tipping over, especially when navigating sharp curves or making emergency maneuvers.

3. Loss of Control: In scenarios where the load shifts or the weight is uneven, even experienced drivers can struggle to maintain control. This can lead to dangerous situations such as rollovers or jackknife incidents, posing a threat not just to the driver but to other road users as well.

4. Increased Stopping Distances: Poorly loaded trucks may also require longer distances to stop safely. This is because additional weight can strain the braking system, reducing its effectiveness in emergencies.

Ensuring that cargo is balanced and securely fastened is critical for safe truck operation. Without proper loading, the entire dynamics of vehicle movement can be compromised, leading to potentially catastrophic accidents.

If you’re navigating the trucking landscape in Colorado Springs, there are several key routes you should be aware of. Among them, East Woodmen Road serves as a significant corridor, providing vital connections through the region. Delmonico Drive is another crucial route, facilitating efficient transport across local neighborhoods. Don’t overlook North Mansfield Road, a major pathway sustaining freight movement within the city. Lastly, Highway 24 plays an essential role in linking trucks to broader destinations outside the urban area. Together, these routes form the backbone of trucking operations in Colorado Springs.

The Path Forward

When faced with the aftermath of a truck accident, it’s crucial to seek legal guidance as soon as possible. Our firm offers free consultations to help you understand your rights and options. We recognize the urgency of your situation, and we commit to initiating work on your case immediately upon hiring us.

Why Legal Representation Matters

After a serious truck accident, it’s essential to refrain from speaking to insurance companies — whether your own or the other party’s — without the guidance of a qualified attorney. Insurance adjusters may pressure you into accepting settlements that do not fully compensate you for your injuries and losses. Our team is dedicated to securing full and fair compensation on your behalf.

Our Commitment to You

At the Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey and Ben Peterson, we understand the complexities of truck accident cases and the impact they can have on your life. We are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive legal representation to ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way. From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, advocating for you in court, we will tirelessly pursue the best possible outcome for your case.

The Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey and Ben Peterson also assist people with legal needs in the following areas: Black Forest, Castle Rock, Centennial, Cimarron Hills, Douglas County, El Paso County, Fountain, Highlands Ranch, Parker, and Pueblo County.

Avoiding Common Mistakes After a Truck Accident

Navigating the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with injuries and mounting expenses. At the Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey and Ben Peterson, we’re here to help you avoid common pitfalls that can jeopardize your claim and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Hiring the Wrong Lawyer

One of the biggest mistakes you can make after a truck accident is hiring a lawyer who lacks experience in handling such cases. Insurance companies are well aware of which attorneys have a track record of success in truck accident claims and which do not. Choosing the wrong lawyer can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Delaying Medical Treatment

After a truck accident, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly, even if you don’t think your injuries are severe. Delaying medical treatment can not only worsen your condition, but also undermine your claim. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries were not a direct result of the accident if you wait too long to seek treatment.

Not Following Doctor’s Orders

Following your doctor’s orders is crucial for both your recovery and your claim. Failing to adhere to prescribed treatments or skipping appointments can give the impression that your injuries are not as serious as you claim. This can weaken your case and limit your ability to recover compensation for your medical expenses and other damages.

Speaking to the Insurance Company Without Legal Representation

Perhaps one of the most significant mistakes you can make is speaking to the insurance company without the guidance of an attorney. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, and anything you say to them can be used against you. Having legal representation ensures that your rights are protected and that you don’t inadvertently harm your case.

Why Consult an Attorney First?

Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially after a traumatic event like a truck accident. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney before engaging in any communication with insurance adjusters. An attorney can handle these discussions on your behalf, safeguarding your interests and preventing any statements that could potentially jeopardize your claim.

Benefits of Legal Representation

• Protection of Interests: An attorney can ensure that your rights are not compromised during negotiations.
• Experienced Guidance: Trial lawyers understand the tactics used by insurance companies and can navigate them effectively.
• Stress Reduction: By allowing your attorney to manage communications, you can focus on recovery rather than the complexities of insurance claims.

How We Can Help

At the Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey and Ben Peterson, we understand the challenges you’re facing after a truck accident. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with the guidance and support you need to navigate the legal process successfully. We will work tirelessly to investigate your accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf.

Understanding Partial Fault in Truck Accident Claims

If you’re wondering about the possibility of pursuing a claim after a truck accident where you share some of the blame, then you’re in luck. Let’s break it down.

Colorado’s Modified Comparative Negligence Rule

Colorado employs a modified comparative negligence rule, which allows you to file a claim even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation will be adjusted according to the degree of your fault in the accident.

How It Works:

• If you’re found to be 30% responsible, your potential settlement might decrease by that same percentage.
• If your fault exceeds 50%, you may not be eligible for compensation.

Why Consulting an Attorney Helps

It’s beneficial to consult an attorney to analyze the specifics of your situation. They can provide guidance on how the law applies to your circumstances and assist in maximizing any potential claim.

Key Points to Consider

• Legal advice is crucial for navigating complex fault assessments.
• Evidence collection can significantly impact your case.
• Every detail counts to adjust and prepare your claim strategy.

In essence, being partially at fault doesn’t shut the door on the possibility of a claim. Understanding your rights and how Colorado’s legal framework operates will guide you through the process.

Colorado Springs Truck Accident Lawyers Client Story

This client story is for educational purposes only.

In the blur of headlights and screeching tires, my life changed forever. It was a typical evening drive with my wife, heading down the highway in El Paso County, Colorado, when suddenly, a truck slammed into the back of our car. The impact sent us spinning, and in those terrifying moments, everything seemed to slow down.

As we emerged from the wreckage, battered and shaken, the reality of our situation began to sink in. We were injured, our car was wrecked, and the future looked uncertain. But amidst the chaos, one name kept coming up: Ben Peterson from the Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey and Ben Peterson.

From the moment we met Ben, we knew we were in good hands. His calm demeanor and reassuring presence provided a beacon of hope in our darkest hour. He listened to our story with empathy and understanding, promising to fight tirelessly on our behalf.

But the road to justice was far from easy. The insurance company, eager to protect their bottom line, offered us a mere pittance for our pain and suffering. They thought they could sweep us under the rug — but they underestimated the tenacity of Ben Peterson and his team.

With unwavering determination, Ben took our case to trial. He meticulously presented the evidence, dissecting every detail to expose the truth. And when the verdict was finally announced, it was a victory for justice.

Thanks to Ben and the Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey and Ben Peterson, we received the compensation we deserved. But more than that, they gave us something priceless: peace of mind. They stood by our side every step of the way, guiding us through the legal process with compassion and care.

To anyone out there who finds themselves in a similar situation, I urge you not to lose hope. Reach out to the Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey and Ben Peterson and let them be your guiding light in the darkness. With their experience and dedication, they can help you navigate the road to recovery and ensure that justice is served.

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Colorado, you don’t have to face the challenges ahead alone.

The Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey and Ben Peterson is here to provide you with the compassionate and experienced legal representation you need during this difficult time.

Free Consultations

We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a truck accident can take on you and your family. That’s why we offer free consultations to discuss your case and provide you with the guidance you need to understand your rights and options.

No Fee Unless We Win

At the Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey and Ben Peterson, we believe that everyone deserves access to justice, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis, which means that you don’t owe us any money unless we successfully recover compensation for your claim. You can trust that we will fight tirelessly on your behalf to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.

Reach Out to Us Today

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact the Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey and Ben Peterson today to schedule your free consultation. Let us put our experience and dedication to work for you, helping you navigate the legal process and pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.