Minneapolis Truck Accident Attorney

Fighting for Truck Accident Victims in Minneapolis, MN

Truck accidents are some of the most devastating motor vehicle collisions on the road. Due to their enormous size and weight, commercial trucks can cause catastrophic damage when they crash, often leading to severe, life-altering injuries or fatalities. Victims of truck accidents may face long-term challenges, including physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial strain from medical expenses and lost income. With all of that hanging over your head, it's easy for the aftermath of a truck accident to become overwhelming and leave victims and their loved ones searching for help.

If you or a loved one needs assistance from a skilled and experienced legal advocate after suffering serious injuries in a truck accident, reach out to Butwinick Injury Law. Attorney Bob Butwinick brings over 25 years of experience to every case, offering truck accident victims compassionate, individualized attention and a proactive approach that prepares their case for trial right from the start. Our clients work directly with Attorney Butwinick, not a case manager, giving them comfort and peace of mind knowing that our firm is truly on their side and has their best interests at heart. To date, we have recovered over $10 million for injury victims and proudly sport an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, further bolstering our proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes for those who trust their case to us. 

Call us today at (763) 415-7462 for trusted, dependable legal representation.

Common Types of Big Rig Accidents

Truck accidents can occur in various ways depending on the circumstances of the collision, weather conditions, driver behavior, and road design. Some of the most common types of big rig accidents in Minneapolis include:

• Jackknife Accidents: Occur when the trailer swings out to form an angle with the cab, often caused by sudden braking or loss of traction.
• Rear-End Collisions: When a truck fails to stop in time and hits another vehicle from behind, often leading to devastating results for smaller passenger cars.
• Underride Accidents: These deadly crashes happen when a smaller vehicle slides beneath a truck’s trailer, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities.
• Rollover Accidents: Large commercial trucks can roll over due to speeding, sharp turns, or improper cargo loading.
• Wide Turn Accidents: Trucks require extra space to turn, and improper turning can crush nearby vehicles or pedestrians.
• Tire Blowouts: A tire blowout can cause a driver to lose control, leading to high-speed collisions.
• Lost Load Accidents: When cargo is improperly secured and falls onto the road, it can strike or cause other vehicles to crash.

Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents

While some truck accidents are unavoidable, most result from human error, mechanical failure, or negligence. Common causes of truck accidents in Minnesota include:

• Driver Fatigue: Federal law restricts how many hours truck drivers can operate without rest, but fatigue still remains a leading cause of crashes.
• Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, or using in-cab technology can divert a trucker’s attention for a few seconds—long enough to cause a major crash.
• Speeding or Reckless Driving: Trucks traveling at high speeds have longer stopping distances and can easily lose control.
• Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol, drugs, and even prescription medications can impair reaction time and judgment.
• Poor Maintenance: Failing to maintain brakes, tires, or lights can make a truck unsafe to drive.
• Improper Cargo Loading: Overloaded or unbalanced cargo can make trucks unstable and prone to tipping.
• Inexperienced or Untrained Drivers: Trucking companies sometimes cut corners when hiring, leading to drivers who lack proper training.
• Adverse Weather Conditions: Snow, ice, and rain can make stopping or maneuvering a large truck much more difficult.

Determining Responsibility in a Truck Accident

Liability in a truck accident case can be far more complex than in traditional motor vehicle collisions. While this may seem daunting, it can actually work to an injured victim's advantage. A commercial truck accident might involve multiple parties, increasing the potential options for pursuing damages. However, this complexity requires thorough investigation and legal knowledge to identify and hold all parties accountable.

Those who may share in the responsibility for a truck accident may include:

• The truck driver, if they were negligent, such as driving under the influence, speeding, or violating hours-of-service rules.
• The trucking company, if they failed to properly train or supervise their drivers, or if they required drivers to keep to unsafe schedules.
• The truck manufacturer, if a vehicle defect contributed to or directly caused a failure that resulted in the accident.
• A maintenance company, if the vehicle in question was improperly maintained or inspected. Likewise, they could also be accountable if a repair was inadequate or failed.
• A cargo loading company, if improperly loaded cargo contributed to either a mechanical failure or a weight imbalance that caused the accident through loss of control.
• Other drivers who may have acted recklessly and contributed to the collision.

Because each of these parties can share in the liability behind an accident, it can be difficult to pursue compensation from any one of them. Many will outright deny culpability, instead pointing the finger at a different party for their role in the matter. If you're trying to find your way through this entangled web of confusion on your own, it's easy to become overwhelmed and frustrated. Likewise, many of these entities also have their own legal teams designed to protect them and alleviate their liability. An experienced representative and advocate like Bob Butwinick can analyze all of the facts surrounding an accident to determine who should be held accountable.

Recovering Damages After a Truck Accident

Because the losses incurred during a truck accident can be immense, victims of truck accidents may be entitled to significant compensation. Minnesota law states that all at-fault parties in a truck accident may be held liable for damages, as outlined in Minnesota Statute § 169.09, which governs liability and reporting requirements for motor vehicle accidents.

Depending on the circumstances of the case, recoverable damages can include:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages from time away from work
• Diminished earning potential due to disability
• Pain and suffering caused by injuries
• Emotional turmoil
• Property damage to vehicles or other personal belongings
• Future medical expenses for ongoing treatment and care

Each case is different, so it's important to consult with an attorney to learn the true extent of the damages you have suffered and what you may be entitled to. At Butwinick Injury Law, we prepare every case to go to trial if necessary, and we're prepared to fight for every penny you deserve.

Truck Accident FAQs

What should I do after a truck accident in Minneapolis?

Call 911, seek medical attention, and if possible, take photos and gather witness contact information. Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters before consulting an attorney.

How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in Minnesota?

Under Minnesota law, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the accident date. However, there may be exceptions depending on the case, so contact a lawyer as soon as possible.

What if the truck driver’s insurance company offers a quick settlement?

Never accept a settlement without legal advice. Early offers often undervalue your claim and may not cover future medical or financial needs.

How is a truck accident claim different from a regular car accident claim?

Truck accident claims are often more complex because they involve commercial vehicles, federal trucking regulations, and multiple liable parties such as the trucking company, cargo loaders, or parts manufacturers. These cases also tend to involve more severe injuries and higher insurance policy limits.

What evidence is most important in a truck accident case?

Key evidence may include the truck’s “black box” data, driver logs, dashcam footage, maintenance records, GPS tracking information, and accident scene photos. Your lawyer can issue legal requests to preserve and obtain this data before it’s destroyed or altered.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Yes. Under Minnesota’s modified comparative fault rule, you can recover damages as long as you were less than 50% at fault. However, your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

What federal laws regulate the trucking industry?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict regulations for truck drivers and companies, including limits on driving hours, vehicle maintenance requirements, and drug and alcohol testing rules. Violations of these laws can help prove negligence in your claim.

What if the truck driver was working for a large national company?

You can still pursue compensation. Trucking companies are typically responsible for their employees’ actions when accidents occur during the course of employment. Your lawyer will determine whether to file a claim against the driver, the employer, or both.

What happens if the trucking company denies responsibility?

Our team can gather evidence such as maintenance logs, inspection reports, and communication records to establish liability. Trucking companies often deny fault to limit payouts, but we know how to counter these defenses.

Why You Need a Minneapolis Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accidents often involve complex legal issues, including multiple parties and intricate liability questions. It's essential to have a dedicated truck accident attorney on your side who understands these complexities and can advocate for your rights. Unlike standard vehicle accidents, truck accidents may involve trucking companies, their insurance providers, and even manufacturers. A skilled attorney will navigate these challenges and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Here are some compelling reasons to choose a specialized truck accident attorney:

• In-depth Knowledge: Our legal team is well-versed in trucking regulations and laws, giving you an advantage in your case.
• Thorough Investigation: We will conduct a comprehensive investigation, including gathering evidence, reviewing safety records, and interviewing witnesses to build a robust case on your behalf.
• Maximized Compensation: Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who will work tirelessly to negotiate the best possible settlement, ensuring all your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering are accounted for.
• Peace of Mind: Focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities. Our team commits to guiding you through every step of the process, providing clear communication and support.

Don't navigate the aftermath of a truck accident alone. Reach out to Butwinick Injury Law today for a free consultation and let us help you get the justice you deserve.

Contact our Minneapolis truck accident attorneys today to get started on your claim.