6 Important Ways a Lawyer Can Assist Truck Drivers

Truck drivers need lawyers for many reasons. One is that many truck drivers are injured in accidents and never get compensated for their injuries. This sees a lot of drivers facing huge amounts of hospital bills that insurance should have covered. A trucking attorney practices transportation law and will offer you legal services if you’re a truck driver. Have a look at some of the ways a lawyer can help you.

1. Update You on Current State and Federal Laws Regarding Truck Drivers

A trucking attorney has to stay updated on current developments regarding trucks and truck drivers. That allows them to serve their clients better. This is particularly important if you run a trucking business. The last thing you want is to find yourself on the wrong side of the law because you weren’t aware of certain law changes. For instance, there’s a lot of concern over whether truck drivers get enough rest. About 30% of commercial truck accidents are caused by driver fatigue. However, drivers are supposed to take a break after 11 hours of straight driving to rest. A lawyer will inform you about such matters to prevent you from landing in trouble.

2. Guide You In case of an Accident

If you’re a trucker involved in an accident, reach out to your lawyer immediately. A truck accident attorney has experience in helping victims of truck accidents. They’ll let you know which documents you need to submit to a judge and the other parties involved. They also ensure you get fair compensation and will fight for your rights during legal proceedings. Having a qualified lawyer on your side increases the chances of you getting a fair settlement, whether you’re going to court or settling the case privately.

3. Review Your Medical Bills for Correctness

If you have been injured in an accident, you’ll need to go to the hospital, leading to medical expenses. It’s not uncommon for billing errors to occur. Sometimes you’ll be charged for services you didn’t receive. Other common billing errors include unbundling and upcoding. Unfortunately, some of these errors can go unnoticed, which affects your premiums. 54% of insured US citizens agree that they are always or sometimes confused by medical bills. A lawyer will easily identify these errors and ensure you’re not being charged for anything you shouldn’t be.

4. Appeal Insurance Claim Denial on Your Behalf

Another challenge truck drivers face is the insurance company denying their claims. Picture a situation where you have been involved in a serious accident and need long-term care to recover. If the insurance company denies your claim, it means you have to go to cover these medical bills yourself. The average stay of a resident in an assisted living facility is about 22 months. This is a long time, and the bill is likely to be significant. If the insurance company refuses to cover such costs, your lawyer will present the right evidence, increasing your chances of winning the case.

5. Prepare You for Court

If your case goes to court, a lawyer will represent you. It’s better than representing yourself, even if you’re not guilty. The other party will have an attorney, giving them the upper hand. A trucking attorney will advise you on what to say to court to avoid compromising your case. At the same time, they’ll prepare you for some of the questions you can expect and how to answer them.

6. Update You on Labor Laws

Certain trucking companies exploit their drivers. They will force them to drive for long hours with poor pay and little rest. A trucking lawyer can inform you of your rights so that you’re not exploited by your employer.

Truck drivers spend a lot of time on the road, which puts them at risk of getting into accidents. Not to mention that if there’s an accident, most people will blame the truck driver first. Having a lawyer to protect your interests will give you peace of mind and safeguard your finances.