If you have been in a truck accident, it is best to hire truck crash attorneys to represent your claim. Not only can lawyers help you understand your rights, but they can also assist you in determining liability in incredibly complicated cases. For a detailed overview, read ahead to learn the factors that can influence your compensation. 

Insurance companies have complex policies regarding coverage in a truck accident. Vehicle size is one of the most common determinants of compensation. Since a truck accident is more likely to cause severe injuries than an average car crash, insurance policies are designed to escape liability. For instance, your insurance company may not offer coverage if a commercial truck driver is at fault. 

In addition, there are several trucking industry regulations that commercial companies are mandated to follow. In the event of an accident with a truck driver, these strict regulations can cause challenges in the claim-filing process. 

Due to their massive size, most truck accidents involve more than just two parties. This can make determining liability extremely difficult. Not to mention, more parties imply the involvement of multiple insurance companies. Obscure insurance policies and numerous involved parties are a recipe for disaster. 

Not only does this make settling next to impossible, but lawyers are likely to struggle with the investigation and source supporting evidence. If involved parties cannot settle, the claim might have to go to trial, making the entire process far more complicated. 

Beyond the direct victims involved in a truck accident, the involvement of other liable parties can complicate a truck accident. At a basic level, plaintiffs need to establish negligence on the truck driver’s part to seek compensation for damages. However, determining liability for negligence can be tricky in commercial truck accidents. 

Trucking companies are infamous for their poor working conditions and binding contracts. If the truck driver caused the crash due to distraction or overworking, victims would have to deal with big corporations and their insurance carriers for compensation. It would also raise the question of whether the driver or the company is liable for damages. 

Product defect and government liability might also come into play if the accident was caused due to poor truck maintenance or bad road quality. 

Adequate evidence makes up the backbone of a solid personal injury claim. However, unlike other cases, evidence in truck accidents can be challenging to document. Medical records, police reports, and testimonies are insufficient to back a truck accident claim. 

To establish truck driver liability, your lawyer must investigate the accident site, analyze vehicle damage and interpret complex insurance policies. In addition, they would also have to review the truck’s event record data to identify discrepancies. 

Other evidence may include an assessment of maintenance logs, employee records, and employee regulations of the trucking company. These combined factors make calculating the total compensation a highly complex process. 

According to a report from IIHS, approximately 4,014 people died due to large truck accidents in 2020. The complexity of truck accidents eventually saturates to the widespread damage and severe injuries they can cause. 

Traumatic brain injury, damage to the spinal cord, and deaths due to internal bleeding are common consequences of truck accidents. In such a scenario, seeking compensation becomes more of an attempt to avenge a loved one’s loss than strictly seeking financial damages.     

Undoubtedly, truck accidents are traumatic incidents that can derail your life. Although seeking compensation might be difficult, it is possible. With a qualified attorney by your side, you can receive the compensation you deserve.  Check out our other news articles here. 

Lighting

If you’re going to work on vehicles, having some sort of lighting is vital. Because vehicles have so many dark areas, good light will make a big difference as you work on a car. Under hood lights are pretty much a necessity for your workshop. A well-lit space is also crucial to prevent injury and perform work correctly. Instead of using antiqued, unsafe work lights, use LEDs instead. LEDs are safer, last longer, and don’t cost much. LEDs are more energy efficient too. An LED offers better lighting and higher lumens suitable for any job. Many LED work lights are rechargeable and rugged, making them perfect for any workshop or garage.

Pneumatic Jack

Every mechanic should have a jack. Not only do mechanics work on engines, but they also need to get under the vehicle for certain repairs. No one can change a tire or wheel without a jack. But instead of relying on a standard jack for your workshop, go with a pneumatic jack instead. Instead of your typical jack that requires manual labor to lift something, the pneumatic jack uses air pressure to effortlessly lift heavy vehicles from the floor. It’s almost magical in the performance of this task. Auto mechanics can also benefit from them due to their durability and exceptional precision/control. These jacks tend to be safer than other types of jacks and are essential to any workshop where heavy objects require lifting.

Hand Tools

Hand tools are some of the most essential items to have in any workshop. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, weekend builder, contractor, or mechanic, filling your toolbox with the right tools is critical to get any job done. When it comes to the best mechanics tools, you have plenty of fantastic options. Here are just a few of the necessary and useful tools every mechanic (or enthusiast) should have on hand:

• Drills
• Impact drivers
• Pry bars
• Allan wrenches
• Ratchet
• Pliers
• Heavy scissors
• Crescent wrenches
• Adjustable wrenches
• Socket sets
• Ratchet
• Hammers

Hand tool sets offer many of these items, but it’s up to you to cultivate the storage and types of items you use in your workshop. Don’t forget to keep personal protective gear on hand as well. Rubber and leather gloves are a must if you’re dealing with any kind of dangerous materials. Face protection and eye protection is a good idea anytime you’re working. Feel your workshop with the right-hand tools and you’ll be able to get the job done right every time.

Pressure Bleed System

Working on cars requires draining certain parts of the engine at different times. Oil and cooling systems are high-pressure but are simple enough to do. Draining brake fluid out of the brake system requires a bit more than us. That’s where your pressure bleed system comes in handy. Pressure bleed systems are specifically designed to help you bleed brake fluid during routine repairs/maintenance. You could manually bleed brakes. But that’s time-consuming and not as much fun as using tools to do it. Adding one to your workshop can help you save a ton of time and energy while making most brake maintenance a breeze.

Extra Buckets and Mats

Draining oil. Replacing oil filters. Changing brake pads. As a mechanic, you’re going to be getting dirty. It’s going to be on the floor working on things quite frequently. You’ll also need a place to store all the fluids you drain from a vehicle. So, it stands to reason that extra buckets in math would be a good idea. Even if you have a pit already built into your workshop/garage, you can never have too many buckets. Of course, the number of buckets used is largely dependent on the type of work you do. But when it comes to keeping cars in good working order and decent shape, you’ll want to ensure you have the tools necessary to do so.

A chain reaction car accident might involve three vehicles, or four, or more than that. Chain reaction car accidents can harm you and your passengers, and your life might look dramatically different after one occurs.

We’ll talk about a few ways your life can change after these accidents right now.

You Might Sustain a Temporary Injury

If a car strikes your vehicle and other cars after that, you might sustain an injury. Whiplash often happens if a car hits your vehicle from behind. You also might suffer bruises, cuts, or other temporary injuries.

Temporary injuries cause pain and suffering, but they heal. You might have to alter your normal routine for a while. You may need to stay home from the gym or work from home rather than go to the office.

You will recover in time, though, and that’s what truly matters. You may feel upset the accident occurred, but hopefully, you won’t sustain any long-lasting damage.

You Might Sustain a Permanent Injury

If you get in a bad chain reaction car accident, you might sustain a permanent injury. That’s obviously worse than an injury that heals quickly.

Permanent injury occurs more often with chain reaction car accidents if a vehicle hits you with extreme velocity. High-velocity accidents might happen because of driver inattention or poor weather conditions.

If you sustain a permanent injury, you might have to adjust your life significantly. Maybe you can’t walk anymore, and you need to use a wheelchair from now on. Perhaps you must walk with a cane, and you can only do that after attending physical therapy sessions for many months.

Permanent injuries are challenging, and you will need your family and friends backing you up. Their unwavering support can help you as you learn how to cope with your new situation.

You Might Experience Anxiety or Depression

Anxiety and depression are both possible after chain reaction car crashes. Maybe your injuries force you to skip family events for months afterward. You may also not enjoy life like you did before.

You may have to attend therapy sessions to talk with a mental health professional. You can explain how you feel unsafe in vehicles. You may shake when you get behind the wheel. This shows you’re not over the event yet.

The therapist might suggest meditation or antianxiety medication. They might ask that you continue talking to them until you show improvement.

You may also sleep poorly after the accident. Insomnia can make you miserable. In some instances, your therapist can give you medication for that problem as well.

You Can’t Return to Work

Maybe you liked your job, and you enjoyed spending time there. After the accident, you may not return for months or possibly ever again.

You might take on a different job in your same field. You’ll need to consider your skill set and what you can do with your new limitations.

You might work from home at your job if your boss allows that. You can work from home in many positions these days, but not all of them. Sometimes, you must attend work to do it, and working from home isn’t possible.

You might reexamine your work life following the accident. Perhaps you can do something else if you have to abandon your profession. You may find something else you like just as much, though. That’s a 

possible silver lining if this accident type occurs.

You Might Take Public Transportation Going Forward

You may also survive your crash with minor injuries, but when you heal, you don’t want to drive anymore. Maybe the wreck totaled your car, and now you take the bus or train instead.

Car ownership can help you because you can use your car to get around. However, it has some drawbacks, so you might enjoy not owning a vehicle. You won’t have car payments, insurance payments, gas payments, etc.

Chain reaction car crashes can change your life for a while, or they can change it permanently. You will doubtless need resolve to get through this challenge.

You can do it with the tools we mentioned. In time, you can look back on this unpleasant memory, but it won’t control you.

Car & Vehicle Storage Unit Guide

If you have decided to look into car storage options, there are a few things you should consider. How big of a storage unit do I need for my vehicle? What is my budget? Should I rent a storage unit or a parking space?

Before you commit to storing your vehicle in self-storage, you should research other options to ensure you get the best choice for your budget. For example, you can book monthly parking spaces that are covered or even in garages for reasonable prices from places like whereipark.com, and it is worth comparing the prices before settling on storage options.

If you do decide to go with self-storage, then we have put together some tips to help you below.

How to find the right size storage unit?

The first and most important thing is to work out your vehicle size. That will determine what size storage unit you will need. Take some time to measure your vehicle and determine the minimum size required before searching for vehicle storage. This will help ensure that you select the perfect fit for your vehicle and save you time and money.

Start by measuring the length of your vehicle, considering the bumpers. Then measure the width of the vehicle, including the door mirrors.

Once you have the measurements, you can start your search for the right storage unit size. Generally speaking, you will want an extra 6 feet of clearance all around your vehicle to enable you to open doors and park safely.

10 x 10 Storage Units

These storage units will likely only be able to store vehicles which are the smallest on the market, but you still should check there will be enough clearance around the vehicle to open doors.

10 x 15 Vehicle Storage

This self-storage unit would be able to take compact cars the size of a Mini Cooper, Fiesta or SMART car.

10 x 20 Storage

This is a standard-size self-storage unit that will fit more cars. You will need to get something bigger for larger vehicles, but this will fit cars like Ford Explorer or a Honda Accord.

10 x 25 Self Storage

If you are looking to store a van, RV or much larger SUV, you may need to upgrade to 250 square feet. Of course, it will all depend if the vehicle is the only thing you wish to store!

What are the different car storage types?

The best way to determine what type of storage space you need is to ask yourself the following questions:

• Do I want a short-term or long-term option?
• Will you be storing your vehicle indoors or outdoors?

If you only want short-term options, then covered parking or other parking options may be better for you. Self-storage may be your best option if you want something safe and monitored while you are not there for a longer period.

Enclosed Car Storage

These are typically the most secure and safe places for storing your car. They are like large garages where you can drive straight in and will keep your car out of the elements. You usually access them through a roll-up door, and they have features like climate control and CCTV.

Indoor Vehicle Storage

This is still indoors, protecting your car from the elements, but it is a shared indoor space. Cheaper than your own enclosed unit but less convenient as you will have to arrange times you can retrieve your car.

Covered parking spaces

This will protect your car from the worst damage, but it is just a roof cover, so whilst it will be cheaper, it will not be as secure.

How much do storage facilities cost?

Depending on your location, you can expect to p[ay anywhere from $50 – $400 per month for a small storage unit. For larger units and added features like climate control, you can easily add on an extra $50 a month.

How to prepare your vehicle for storage?

If you have made the decision to store your car away, then there are a few essential things to do beforehand. Taking this time to prep, your vehicle will pay off in the long term, keeping it in good condition.

1. The first step to preparing your car for storage is to clean it thoroughly. Remove all dirt and debris from the outside of the car, giving it a wash. Vacuum and wipe down the inside of the car, leaving an air freshener to keep it smelling good.
2. Take your car for a service before you put it into self-storage. Ensure all the fluids are topped up and the tires are inflated.
3. If you will not be using the car for a while, disconnect the battery so that it does not drain.

Vehicle Storage Summary

A car storage unit is a great idea because it protects your custom vehicle and can be more cost-effective than other options. If this sounds like a good option for you, make sure when choosing which company to rent from you measure your vehicle correctly and consider the size and type of self-storage you will need. With all of the tips above, you should be able to find the right size car storage unit for your vehicle. 

Madness in the Mountains was held at the Bowen Field in Bluefield, West Virginia on May 14, 2022.  Although there was a continuous threat of storms throughout the week of the event, it did not stop the crowd from filling the event.

Registration started at 8am with a lineup of vehicles ready to enter the event! Madness in the Mountains is known for attracting some of the sickest vehicles on the east coast as well as having a show that the entire family can enjoy!

The majority of the show lot was packed full of vehicles of all types, styles and eras.  There were also vendors representing anything you could think of, food vendors of various types and of course don’t forget about the spectators that filled the place. The event seemed like a great success for the promoters, the charity and the community even though mother nature decided to let loose later in the afternoon.

Madness in the Mountains supported the Ronald McDonald House of Southern WV.  All proceeds from the event went straight to RMH.  We all love a show that supports a great cause!

As well as new judges; the show brought in a mass amount of awards with many being new!

Trophy Classes:
Top 50 from 1985 and down
Top 50 from 1986 and up
Top 5 lifted
Top 5 mini trucks
Top 5 Jeeps
Top 5 modern muscle
Top 3 Bikes
Top 5 Imports
Best Paint
Best Graphics
Best Classic Car
Best Classic Truck
Best Muscle
Best Import
Best Drag Car/Truck
Best Interior
Best Mini Truck
Best Lifted
Best Sleeper Vehicle
Best Full Size
Best Jeep
Best All Original
Best Stock Vehicle 2000+
Slammed & Cammed Magazine pick
Dare To Be Different
Best Rat Rod
2023 Flyer Award (what vehicle goes on flyer for 2023)
2023 T-Shirt Award (what goes on show shirt for 2023)
Best Of Show

We are ready for the 2023 event and we hope to see you all there!

Photos by: Chris Gosda

Friends in Low Places 2022 brought in a lot for a two day show.  Between judging, awards, art auctions, live music, cruise in, and much more; there wasn’t much missing! You were also able to see a wide variety of vehicles from your bare metal classics to fully custom restored classics, you had mini trucks, bagged mid/fullsized trucks, lifted trucks, classic trucks, and more.

Starting Friday night at the Distillery, attendees meet up for a cruise in.  It allows for everyone to get together and enjoy the night before a day filled with Car Show fun.  When Saturday came around, it started off bright and early.  The day went fast as there was so much to do and a lot to see.  Friends in Low Places 2022 was the furthest thing from a let down, we had a great time and you can tell everyone who attended did too!

What kind of show would it be if you also did not have a variety of vendors with food and clothing to have you all set for the event. Later on you were able to enjoy the pin up contest, charity auction, and sample some of the drinks from the local distillery!  Adding some drinks to an already good time just tops off the event!

We are ready for the 2023 show and already have it marked in our calendars!

Photos by: Chris Gosda

Rollin in the Red Rocks 2022 was held on May 21, 2022 in St. George, Utah.  Bringing in all kinds of vehicles ranging from the all-original classics to your full-blown custom cars and trucks, we enjoyed every aspect of the show!

The event was created by someone who wants people to come back for years to come.  With the venue, location, vendors, and vehicles; for us, we can say we will be back.

Friday of the show was used for vendors to roll in and set up their area.  With shirts, parts, food, and memorabilia for the event, the vendors also had a great weekend!  Friday was also for show cars to come in and prepare their vehicle for show as well as pre registration and new registration packet pickup!

Saturday was the start of the entire event.  Their Saturday schedule was filled with fun!

8am – Day of Show Registration Opens

11am – End Registration

12pm – Limbo Contest

2pm – Axe Throwing Tournament

5pm – End of Show

6pm – Meet Up for Cruise

6:30pm – Cruise Begins

8pm – Indoors Opens for Indoor Show Vehicle’s to Park

9pm – Indoors Closes for the Night

Saturday was over 12 hours of fun, but it went by in the blink of an eye! Sunday came quick and although the show was still on, it was not nearly as long as Saturday.

Sundays Schedule went:

9am – Show Begins

10am – Raffles Drawn and Posted

2pm – Final Raffles/Auction

2:30pm – Award Ceremony

End of Show/Move Out

It came time for us to pack up Sunday and as we were leaving, we felt sad that there was not more time!  Between the location and Rolling in the Red Rocks show itself, this show was for sure unlike any other event we have gone to.

They have locked in their 2023 dates, and you can bet we will be there!

Photos by: Cheri Delgadillo