Semi-Truck Accident Attorney Near Me

Charleston’s roads stay busy with cars, motorcycles, delivery vans, and large commercial trucks. While most drivers travel safely each day, semi-truck accidents happen more often than many people realize. When they do, the results can be life-changing.

Because of their size and weight, commercial trucks cause severe damage during collisions. As a result, drivers, passengers, motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians often suffer serious injuries. Many victims face long recoveries, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about what comes next.

Attorney Joe Cunningham is an experienced semi-truck accident attorney in Charleston, South Carolina. He helps injured residents move forward after serious crashes. As a former congressman with a lifelong commitment to public service, he works tirelessly to hold negligent truck drivers, trucking companies, and corporate defendants accountable. Most importantly, he fights to help victims recover the compensation they deserve.

Truck Accident Claims in Charleston: What Sets Joe Cunningham Law Apart

Not all law firms approach truck accident cases the same way. At Joe Cunningham Law, clients receive focused attention and dedicated advocacy. Below are a few reasons injured Charleston residents trust Attorney Joe Cunningham with semi-truck accident claims.

A Public Service–Driven Approach

As a former congressman, Joe Cunningham brings a strong public service mindset to every case. He understands the power and influence of insurance companies and large trucking corporations. However, that never deters him from standing up for injured victims. Instead, he remains committed to pursuing justice and fair compensation.

Practical Experience With Insurance Companies

Attorney Joe Cunningham has handled personal injury cases from multiple perspectives. Because he previously defended claims, he understands how insurance companies evaluate truck accident cases. More importantly, he knows the tactics they use to reduce payouts. As a result, he can anticipate these strategies and push back effectively.

Local Knowledge of Charleston Roads

In addition to working in Charleston, Joe Cunningham lives in the area. He understands local traffic patterns, high-risk roads, and common accident locations. This insight helps him investigate crashes thoroughly, gather strong evidence, and build cases that reflect real-world driving conditions in Charleston.

Personalized Attention for Every Client

To Joe Cunningham, truck accident victims are never just case numbers. Instead, they are neighbors who deserve care, respect, and clear communication. Every case receives the same level of attention he would expect for his own family.

Common Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents in Charleston

Semi-truck accidents happen for many reasons. In some cases, driver negligence plays a role. In others, trucking companies or maintenance failures contribute to the crash. Below are some of the most common causes we see at Joe Cunningham Law.

Driver Fatigue

Long hours and tight schedules often leave truck drivers exhausted. Fatigue slows reaction time, reduces focus, and increases crash risk.

Distracted Driving

When drivers use phones, GPS devices, or other distractions, they may miss traffic changes or brake lights. This can lead to serious accidents.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Excessive speed and aggressive maneuvers make large trucks harder to control. Consequently, these behaviors increase the risk of severe collisions.

Mechanical Failures

Faulty brakes, worn tires, or steering issues can cause drivers to lose control. Trucking companies must keep vehicles safe and road-ready.

Improper Loading or Cargo Shifts

Unsecured or uneven cargo can destabilize a truck. As a result, rollovers and jackknife accidents may occur.

Impaired Driving

Despite strict regulations, some drivers operate trucks under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications. This greatly increases both accident risk and injury severity.

Because of his experience, Joe Cunningham thoroughly investigates each crash to uncover the root cause. This careful approach strengthens claims and improves the chances of full compensation.

Why Semi-Truck Accidents Cause More Severe Injuries

Truck accidents often cause far more serious injuries than typical car crashes. The massive size of semi-trucks, combined with longer stopping distances, makes even low-speed collisions dangerous. Smaller vehicles and unprotected road users face the greatest risk.

Common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): These injuries may cause memory loss or long-term cognitive issues.

• Spinal Cord and Back Injuries: Herniated discs, fractures, or paralysis can occur.

• Broken Bones: Arms, legs, ribs, and hips frequently fracture in high-impact crashes.

• Internal Injuries: Organ damage often requires emergency treatment.

• Soft Tissue Injuries: Muscle and ligament damage can lead to chronic pain.

• Emotional Trauma: Anxiety, depression, and PTSD commonly follow serious accidents.

As your Charleston semi-truck accident attorney, Joe Cunningham ensures all injuries are documented. This includes both visible injuries and those that appear over time.

Who May Be Liable for a Semi-Truck Accident?

Truck accident liability can be complex. Often, more than one party shares responsibility. Identifying all liable parties is critical to recovering full compensation.

Truck Driver

Drivers must follow traffic laws and operate safely. If fatigue, speeding, or distraction caused the crash, the driver may be personally liable.

Trucking Company

Trucking companies must properly train drivers and maintain vehicles. If poor hiring practices or lack of oversight contributed to the crash, the employer may be liable.

Vehicle or Parts Manufacturer

Defective truck parts, such as brakes or tires, can cause accidents. In these cases, manufacturers may share responsibility.

Cargo Loaders or Shippers

Improperly loaded cargo can destabilize trucks. If loading errors contributed to the crash, these parties may be partially liable.

Government or Municipal Entities

In rare cases, unsafe roads or missing signage contribute to accidents. Government agencies may be responsible if negligence created dangerous conditions.

Joe Cunningham carefully investigates every potential source of liability. When multiple parties share fault, each can be held accountable.

What Compensation Is Available After a Semi-Truck Accident?

Truck accident victims in Charleston may recover several types of compensation. The amount depends on injury severity and long-term impact.

Medical Expenses

This includes hospital bills, surgeries, medication, therapy, and future treatment needs.

Lost Wages and Earning Capacity

If injuries prevent you from working, you may recover lost income. Long-term disabilities may also reduce future earnings.

Property Damage

You may recover costs to repair or replace your vehicle and other damaged property.

Pain and Suffering

Compensation may address physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.

Long-Term Care and Rehabilitation

Severe injuries may require ongoing care, home modifications, or assistive devices.

Although compensation cannot undo the accident, it can support recovery and long-term stability. Joe Cunningham works closely with medical professionals to fully document your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Semi-Truck Accidents

Truck accident victims often feel overwhelmed. At Joe Cunningham Law, we guide clients through every step.

What Should I Do After a Semi-Truck Accident?

First, ensure safety and seek medical care. Then, document the scene, gather witness information, and notify your insurer.

Should I Call the Police?

Yes. Police reports provide crucial evidence, especially for accidents involving injuries or commercial vehicles.

How Much Compensation Can I Expect?

Every case is different. Compensation depends on injuries, medical costs, lost income, and long-term effects.

What Evidence Is Important?

Police reports, medical records, photos, witness statements, driver logs, and maintenance records all matter.

Do I Need a Lawyer?

Yes. Truck accident claims are complex. An experienced attorney ensures nothing is missed and all liable parties are pursued.

Contact a Trusted Semi-Truck Accident Attorney in Charleston

Joe Cunningham understands how devastating truck accident injuries can be. With a background in public service and personal injury law, he treats every case with respect and determination.

Few semi-truck accident attorneys in Charleston offer the same combination of experience, local insight, and commitment. Contact Joe Cunningham Law today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward recovery.