Serious injury caused by an accident involving a tractor-trailer or any oversized vehicle can be a catastrophic experience for everyone involved. The added burden of complicated paperwork, documentation, and finding an appropriate attorney can seem overwhelming. There are some key differences between truck accidents and car accidents that can greatly impact your lawsuit. Be sure you hire the right lawyer to represent you.

Ted Babbitt, an award-winning truck accident lawyer, outlines the four things to look for when hiring a truck accident lawyer after an accident.

1. Decades of Experience
There are multiple nuances to trucking laws that can impact a case. Trucks are subject to many laws including cargo loads, speed, and mandated break times. These laws vary by state and are subject to change based on the legislature. An experienced truck accident lawyer will have a deep understanding of all of the laws surrounding trucking as well as state and federal laws, and experience handling the details that surround trucking cases.

One of the key differences between car and truck accidents is the likelihood of multiple negligent parties. An experienced truck accident attorney will have the resources and capability to assess the entire situation and conduct a thorough investigation of the trucking company, the driver, and potentially the truck’s manufacturers. Each party is defended by teams of attorneys whose sole responsibility is to protect their company from having to deliver a large payout. An experienced truck accident attorney will know exactly how to address such representation and negotiate a resolution that will provide you with the maximum damages possible.

2. Extensive Trial Experience
In the event that your lawyer cannot reach a settlement with the trucking company through negotiation or mediation, they must be prepared to take your case to trial. Trials are a notoriously long process that requires extensive resources, expert witnesses, and superb litigation skills. Understanding how to select and relate to a jury, deliver impactful statements, and share complicated terminology or information in an easy-to-understand manner are all critical skills.

Florida truck accident lawyer Ted Babbitt has an incredible success record among both his settlements and trial verdicts, earning him multiple awards. His case record includes a $7 million truck accident settlement that resulted in the double amputation of the survivor’s legs.

3. Client Testimonials
While every truck accident case is different and presents unique challenges, it is important to ensure that your attorney has plenty of client testimonials that demonstrate their ability to handle diverse situations whether that be in trial or settlement. As you are interviewing attorneys, be sure to ask for examples of their previous truck accident case outcomes as well as previous client testimony. Local bar associations, attorney organizations, and rating groups provide public lists of experienced truck accident lawyers.Ted Babbitt is listed among the top personal injury attorneys in Florida by multiple rating groups such as Best Lawyers®, Super Lawyers®, and the International Academy of Trial Lawyers. View some of Ted’s client testimonials here.

4. No Upfront Costs
With mounting medical bills from incurring an injury or loss due to a negligent truck driver, the last thing you want is additional attorney fees. Most truck accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they will not receive payment until the settlement or verdict of the case is reached. Their fee will be a percentage of the lawsuit’s financial agreement. Ask prospective attorneys if they follow a contingency fee plan.

Ted Babbitt is an award-winning truck accident attorney based in West Palm Beach, Florida. He has decades of experience successfully representing victims and their families following devastating accidents caused by negligent drivers. To schedule a free and confidential consultation contact Ted’s office by filling out this online form or calling (561) 375-2841.