Bella Vista, AR Truck Accident Injury Lawyer
The seconds prior to a SUV, car or truck accident — when it becomes clear that an impact is imminent – are often some of the most anxiety-filled and frightening moments in an individual’s life. The driver or vehicle passengers may consider if they will escape the accident without serious injury. Others may think about their loved ones and whether they will see their husband, wife or children again. While advances in vehicle safety have allowed many to walk away from high-speed accidents with tractor-trailers and 18-wheelers, not all are so lucky.
A commercial truck is one of the largest and heaviest vehicles on the road. When these vehicles are involved in an accident, the forces present are typically much greater than those involved in an accident involving smaller personal vehicles. This, unfortunately, often leads to more severe injuries.
Ken Kieklak, Attorney at Law has fought for victims of commercial trucking accidents for more than 20 years. If you have been seriously injured, we recommend that you first talk to an experienced attorney so that you understand what your claim is worth and so that you can make a recovery that is sufficient to cover the expenses from your injuries. Our law firm can handle every aspect of your legal matter so that you can focus on your medical recovery.
I’ve Been in an Accident in Northwest Arkansas. Now What?
If you’ve been in a serious accident, you should first concern yourself with your own safety. If your vehicle is able to be moved safely, you should attempt to move it outside of the flow of traffic to reduce the likelihood of a secondary or tertiary collision. If you detect smoke, the smell of gasoline, or a burning odor coming from the vehicle, be sure to move away from the vehicle quickly as such signs can indicate an imminent explosion or vehicle fire. If you have reached safety, call 911 for emergency assistance.
Once the police and other emergency responders have arrived they are likely to document the accident scene and ask for a statement from those involved. Furthermore, if you are able, it may be useful to document the scene of the accident and the damage that was caused. In today’s world this is easy to do as nearly all cell phones are equipped with high-resolution cameras capable of capturing both audio and video. But, let us be clear – Do not attempt to take pictures or videos if it will subject you to any further risk or if it will aggravate your injuries. Maintaining your safety and obtaining appropriate medical care should always be your primary concerns.
What Injuries are Common in a Commercial Vehicle Accident?
No two commercial vehicle accidents occur in the same way or produce the same results. Each and every commercial trucking accident is a unique event and must be analyzed independently. However, there are certain injuries that we see arise from trucking accidents commonly including:
- Burn injuries – Friction burns from the seat belt, thermal burns due to a vehicle fire or chemical burns can cause severe pain and suffering for an individual.
- Traumatic brain injury – A TBI is one of the most concerning injuries. TBIs can cause problems with nearly every other aspect of the human body. A moderate to severe brain injury often leads to significant cognitive deficits and emotional disturbances.
- Broken bones – Fractured or broken bones are not uncommon in high-speed accidents involving large tractor-trailers. Broken bones can range from simple fractures to injuries where there are multiple breaks or when the bone punctures through the skin.
- Neck and spine injuries – Neck and spine injuries, such as whiplash, are reported by many in a commercial trucking accident. Whiplash can cause nausea, confusion and pain and suffering.
If you have been in a serious accident involving a large truck or commercial vehicle in Bella Vista and you do not feel right, see a doctor or go to the emergency room immediately. You feeling of unease could indicate that something is not right – like an internal injury – though you cannot place exactly what the problem is.
Rely on Bella Vista Truck Accident Injury Lawyer Ken Kieklak
If a commercial truck has hit your vehicle in Bella Vista or elsewhere in northwest Arkansas, Ken Kieklak, Attorney at Law may be able to fight for compensation for you. Ken can handle your accident injury case professionally and strategically. For your free and confidential consultation, call (479) 316-0438 or contact us online today.