Commercial motor vehicle cases often involve conflicting accounts, high-stakes injuries, and the need for expert analysis to uncover what truly happened. In a recent case handled by Cook, Barkett, Ponder and Wolz, our litigation team successfully established liability against a commercial cement truck operator after a serious collision with our client, ultimately securing a confidential settlement that fully reflected the value of the case.
The Collision: A Cement Truck Fails to Yield
Our client was on the job operating an 18-wheeler while hauling rock. After turning onto a major highway, he activated his right turn signal to safely transition from the passing lane into the driving lane. At the same time, a fully loaded cement truck approached the roadway from a nearby business. Rather than yielding, the cement truck driver misinterpreted our client’s use of the turn signal and entered the roadway directly into his lane of travel. The cement truck struck our client’s vehicle in the northbound lanes, causing a significant commercial vehicle crash.
The cement truck driver attempted to shift blame by claiming our client intended to turn into the business simply because his turn signal was illuminated. But the evidence told a very different story.
Winning the Liability Battle Through Expert Reconstruction
CBPW immediately filed suit to establish liability and began a detailed investigation. Both sides utilized accident reconstruction experts, and extensive depositions were taken to understand the precise timing, speed, and visibility conditions surrounding the collision.
Through expert analysis, our team proved:
- Our client could not have slowed or stopped in time to avoid the cement truck.
- The cement truck driver failed to yield the right of way when entering the highway.
- The cement truck’s maneuver was the direct cause of the collision, regardless of the turn signal.
Establishing liability was the key turning point in this case, and it laid the foundation for a successful resolution.
Serious Injuries With Long-Term Impact
The collision caused significant spine injuries, including a central disc protrusion with dural displacement at the C3-4 level. Our client underwent extensive conservative care in hopes of avoiding surgery. Over time, his providers recommended a four-level cervical disc replacement, demonstrating the severity and permanence of his injuries.
Despite ongoing pain, he continued to work, demonstrating resilience and commitment, but his injuries remained life-altering.
Ultimately, the parties reached a confidential settlement, ensuring our client received the financial support needed for his medical care and future well-being.
How CBPW Maximizes the Value of Disputed Liability Cases
This case is a clear example of how CBPW adds tremendous value — especially when liability is contested or the facts are unclear. Our firm provides:
1. Access to the Best Experts in the Country
Accident reconstructionists, engineers, and specialists capable of analyzing commercial vehicle crashes with precision.
2. Aggressive Discovery and Litigation Strategy
Depositions, expert challenges, motion practice, and evidence development that reveal the truth and strengthen the case.
The Ability to Win the Liability Issue
Liability is often the most important battle, and winning it dramatically increases case value, as demonstrated here.
4. Relentless Advocacy for the Injured
From complex commercial vehicle cases to disputed fault collisions, we pursue justice for every client and fight to secure the full value of their claim.
CBPW: Trusted Trial Lawyers for Serious Commercial Vehicle Crashes
When liability is disputed, the stakes are high, and the right legal team makes all the difference. Cook, Barkett, Ponder and Wolz stands ready with the expertise, resources, and determination needed to win even the toughest cases.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial vehicle crash, contact CBPW today. We fight to prove the truth, and we fight to win.