Swinging Turns

Kentucky Tractor Trailer Accident Lawyers

Almost every driver has witnessed a tractor trailer make a wide turn. Although sometimes necessary, these turns must be made responsibly. A truck driver who makes a dangerously wide turn and injures another person can be held responsible for those injuries. Based in Bowling Green, the Kentucky truck accident attorneys of English, Lucas, Priest & Owsley, LLP have years of experience litigating truck accident cases on behalf of injured victims throughout Kentucky, as well as in Tennessee.

Improper Turns Were Responsible for Nearly Two Percent of Truck Accidents

Tractor trailers and other commercial vehicles require special skills and training to operate safely. Even a truck driver who is properly trained, however, can make a dangerous mistake. According to a report prepared in part by the Kentucky State Police, more than 140 truck accidents were caused by improper turns in 2012. If a driver makes an improper turn that causes an injury accident, the driver and his employer may be liable for the injuries he causes.

Truck Crash Victims May File Suit

A person injured in a truck accident may file suit against the people or company responsible for the accident. To prevail in a wide turn negligence case the evidence must prove:

  1. The trucker or his employer — the defendant in the case — owed a duty to the plaintiff;
  2. The defendant breached that duty; and
  3. The plaintiff’s injuries were caused, at least in part, by the defendant’s actions.

All drivers on the road, including truck drivers, have a duty to drive the same as a reasonable person would under the same circumstances. A truck driver who makes an unnecessarily dangerous wide turn breaches this duty. If the wide turn causes an accident that injures the plaintiff, the truck driver or his employer may be liable for the injuries.

In injury cases, Kentucky courts adhere to a rule called pure comparative negligence. This means that a victim who is partly at fault for an accident still can recover a reduced amount of compensation. Responsibility will be divided between the plaintiff and the defendant, and the plaintiff can be awarded damages that are proportionate to the defendant’s degree of responsibility. For example, a plaintiff who was 40 percent at fault for a crash may be able to obtain reimbursement for 60 percent of the costs arising from his or her injuries. An attorney with experience bringing truck accident cases can help you determine the extent to which your damages may be limited in this regard.

Prevailing Plaintiffs Are Entitled to Damages

A plaintiff injured by a negligently wide-turning truck may be entitled to damages. Economic damages compensate the plaintiff for lost wages, medical bills, or other easily calculable financial injuries. Noneconomic damages can be available to plaintiffs who have suffered injuries such as pain and suffering or emotional distress.

In certain cases, truck accident victims may be able to collect punitive damages, although Kentucky law requires that plaintiffs prove by clear and convincing evidence that the defendant acted with either malice or gross negligence. Contact an experienced attorney if you have questions about the damages to which you may be entitled.

Protect Your Rights

The Kentucky tractor trailer accident attorneys of English, Lucas, Priest & Owsley, LLP, have the knowledge, experience, and resources to litigate your truck accident case. If you have been injured in a truck accident, we will fight to get you the compensation to which you are legally entitled. Call (270) 781-6500 or visit our contact page to schedule a free case evaluation. We represent clients throughout Kentucky, but also in local areas including Glasgow, Elizabethtown, and Logan County.

Client Reviews

I was so pleased with all the good efforts and grateful for all Jessica and her firm did on my behalf.

Clare

Kurt was very helpful, caring, and understood the struggle we had. He was diligent and worked fast to make sure our case was handled quick, fairly and properly. He settled my case above my expectations and has continued to stay in contact to make sure all needs were met.

Amy

I know Kurt to be a man of integrity with an uncanny sense and knowledge of the law and it's workings. I enthusiastically, without hesitation recommend Kurt and would call upon him again.

Linton

Mr. Roby helped me with the process after my car accident. Very helpful and made the process very beneficial for me.

Abigail

At 37 weeks pregnant my wife was in an automobile accident in Bowling Green caused by someone not only under the influence of alcohol but was non-licensed, non-insured, and a non-citizen. With my wife’s vehicle totaled, in the middle of trying to pack and move into our new home just a couple weeks...

Claiborne

Attorney Kyle Roby was excellent, and truly fought for me. I appreciated all the people I spoke with from the front desk clerk, Molly, and Mr. Roby. I thank ELPO personnel for all their kindness, understanding, and incredible diligence towards obtaining the best possible outcome for me. Thank you...

Victoria

Kurt Maier is simply the best! He has always been clear and straight to the point about my cases. He kept me informed every step of the way. If you are looking for a devoted attorney to win your case, I highly recommend him!

Tarinza

Jessica Shoulders and Molly are absolutely phenomenal! I have worked with Jessica for years on several cases, and she has consistently provided top-tier legal representation. She stays on top of every detail, ensuring the best possible outcome every time. Her dedication, expertise, and commitment to...

Ricky

Kyle Roby made me feel like family. I really appreciate how he handled my case. Seemed more like a friend than attorney. Would definitely recommend him to anyone needing an attorney

R C

Kyle handled my case with such professionalism and ease. I was constantly kept informed throughout every step of the process. They began work quickly, answered all my questions, negotiated a more than satisfactory settlement, and was truly passionate about the level of service they provided.

Ashley

We had just experienced a horrible car accident out of state. My mother in law who was our passenger received the worst injuries. We were tied up with her care. Talking with doctors, Medicare, insurance adjusters etc. We contacted ELPO law offices and worked with Kurt and Donna over the next several...

Bill

Such a wonderful experience with ELPO Law firm. Highly recommend Kyle Roby for any accident related case. Case manager Heather Renick made the process easy and understandable. She answered any and all of my questions. Making the grueling process very stress free. Anytime I made a visit to the office...

Mallory

Kurt and Donna were absolutely AMAZING. They truly make you feel heard and handle everything for you. I would never go any place else for assistance. Thank you guys!!

Leslie

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