We Offer Dedicated Legal Representation For Truck Accident Victims in Oklahoma.
Truck accidents in Oklahoma are some of the most devastating incidents you can face on the road. The injuries from these accidents can take a long time to heal, and beyond the physical pain, victims often endure emotional and financial challenges as well.
Rebuilding your life after a truck accident can be tough. You may have to deal with insurance companies, opposing lawyers, and even the possibility of a courtroom battle. It can be a daunting process, but the team at Double Horn Injury Law is here to guide you through every step.
If you or a loved one are dealing with the severe impact of a truck accident, our attorneys at Double Horn Injury Law are ready to help you hold the responsible parties accountable. Reach out today to learn how we can help you pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
Addressing Truck Driver Negligence
Here are the top 10 mistakes often made by drivers in Oklahoma, that contribute to truck accidents:
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Failing to avoid a stationary vehicle
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Not yielding the right-of-way
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Driving too fast for road conditions
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Not paying attention to the road or driving task
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Tailgating
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Not slowing down for slower-moving vehicles
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Careless driving
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Turning left in front of oncoming traffic
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Ignoring traffic signals
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Failing to stay in their lane
It's clear from this list why truck accidents can result in devastating injuries. But why do truck drivers engage in risky behaviors that lead to accidents? Negligent actions by trucking companies could play a major role.
Irresponsible Scheduling Practices
Federal regulations govern how trucking companies schedule their drivers, with specific guidelines for drivers hauling goods and those transporting passengers. At Double Horn Injury Law, we investigate whether a trucking company violated these critical rules in your case.
Drivers must:
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Take 8 to 10 consecutive hours off duty
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Limit driving to 10 to 11 hours per day
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Not exceed 14 to 15 hours of total duty time
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Take 30-minute breaks after 8 hours of driving when transporting goods
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Avoid driving more than 60 to 70 hours in 7 or 8 consecutive days
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Rest for 8 to 10 hours when utilizing a sleeper berth provision
Even though adverse weather and short hauls can affect these guidelines, trucking companies must ensure their drivers are operating large trucks safely.
The Risks of Poor Scheduling
Some scheduling practices, even if legal, can negatively impact a driver’s well-being. For instance, swing shifts can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to drowsiness behind the wheel.
When trucking companies ignore federal scheduling regulations, it increases the risk of crashes. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, "truck driver fatigue is a known crash risk."
Consider this: under normal conditions, a fully loaded semi-truck requires 20 to 40 percent more stopping distance than a passenger vehicle. If roads are wet or the truck's brakes are in poor condition, the stopping distance could be even longer. A distracted or fatigued driver may not be able to react quickly enough to avoid an accident.
At Double Horn Injury Law, we believe trucking companies in Oklahoma, must take their drivers' schedules seriously to prevent accidents and protect everyone on the road. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, contact us to discuss your case and explore your options for seeking compensation.
Increased Compensation for Avoidable Truck Accidents
In Oklahoma, commercial trucking companies are required by law to carry liability insurance. This insurance is required for all commercial vehicles, including semi-trucks and delivery vans.
While insurance policies vary by provider, comprehensive coverage typically includes:
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Bodily Injury: Medical costs for injuries caused to others in an accident
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Property Damage: Damage to another person’s property from a truck accident
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Non-Trucking Duties: Expenses incurred when the truck is off-duty and not under dispatch
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Physical Damage or Collision: Repair costs for the company’s trucks due to an accident
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Comprehensive Coverage: Coverage for damage unrelated to a collision, such as theft, fire, or vandalism
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Trailer Interchange: Losses or damage to trailers for companies or owner-operators who rent or exchange them
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General: Injuries or damage occurring during business activities that aren’t directly related to a truck accident, like loading or product delivery.
When you file a personal injury claim, the insurance company compensates their client, but their goal is to make a profit—meaning they may try to offer you less than you’re entitled to. At Double Horn Injury Law, we carefully review fleet insurance policies to ensure you get the full compensation you deserve.
What if the insurance company offers you a settlement after a truck accident? Accepting it is just one option. Every personal injury case is unique, and the damages may be worth more than what the insurer is offering. A truck accident attorney can help determine the full extent of your losses.
For example, if a loved one suffers a traumatic brain injury in a collision with a semi-truck, the trucking company might offer a quick settlement. However, severe injuries like this can result in years of expensive medical care, including nursing services, prescriptions, and hospital bills. The initial offer may fall short of covering the long-term costs.
Seeking legal advice can help avoid regretting a settlement that doesn’t fully meet your needs. At Double Horn Injury Law, we offer free truck accident case reviews with no obligation. If you choose to hire us, you won’t pay anything until we win compensation for your truck accident losses.
Semi-Truck & Serious Accident FAQs
What should I do immediately after a semi-truck accident in Oklahoma?
First, make sure everyone is safe and call 911. Get medical attention right away — even if injuries aren’t obvious. If you’re able, take photos of the scene, get witness names and contact information, and avoid discussing fault. Semi-truck accidents often involve multiple parties, including the driver, the trucking company, and possibly a third party. These companies move fast to protect themselves, so it’s critical that you contact an attorney quickly to preserve evidence and begin building your case.
Can I sue the trucking company if a truck driver caused my accident?
Yes, in many cases you can sue the trucking company in addition to the truck driver. Under Oklahoma law, employers can be held liable for the actions of their employees while they’re on the job. If the company hired an unqualified driver, failed to maintain the vehicle, or pushed the driver to exceed legal driving hours, they may also be directly liable for negligence. Suing the trucking company gives you access to higher insurance limits and a greater chance of full compensation.
How much is an average semi-truck accident settlement in Oklahoma?
The value of a semi-truck accident settlement depends on the severity of the injuries, the level of negligence involved, and the impact on the victim’s life. Settlements can range from tens of thousands to several million dollars, especially in cases involving permanent disability, multiple surgeries, or wrongful death. Because trucking companies typically carry higher insurance limits, victims often have access to more substantial compensation — but that also means these companies fight harder to avoid paying.
Who pays medical bills after a trucking accident in Oklahoma?
Initially, your medical bills may be paid by your health insurance or medical payment coverage under your auto policy. However, the at-fault party’s insurance is ultimately responsible for reimbursing you. If you don’t have health insurance or can’t afford care, an attorney can help you find medical providers who will treat you on a lien basis — meaning they get paid from your settlement. At Double Horn Injury Law, we work with providers in Oklahoma to make sure you get the care you need without going into debt.
Can I sue for wrongful death after a semi-truck accident in Oklahoma?
Yes, Oklahoma law allows the surviving spouse, children, parents, or estate representative of a deceased individual to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Damages may include funeral costs, loss of financial support, emotional suffering, and the loss of companionship. Trucking companies often carry large insurance policies, but they will defend themselves aggressively in these cases. If your loved one was killed in a truck accident, it’s important to contact an experienced wrongful death attorney as soon as possible.