Omaha Truck Accident Attorney

Do You Need a Trusted Omaha Truck Accident Lawyer?

Truck accidents can be a lot more complicated than most car accident cases. For example, they may involve multiple parties, such as drivers, trucking companies, maintenance providers, and insurance carriers. Managing these cases without legal guidance can be overwhelming. Fortunately, an experienced Omaha truck accident attorney like Jason Bottlinger knows how to:

• Investigate the accident thoroughly
• Secure critical evidence before it's lost
• Deal with aggressive insurance adjusters on your behalf
• Calculate the full value of your damages
• Guide you through legal deadlines and procedures

At Bottlinger Law L.L.C., we understand the emotional and financial toll a truck accident can cause. That’s why we provide diligently pursue the compensation you need to heal and rebuild your life.

Jason and his associates are very caring individuals, who put in the time and effort to help you get the compensation and respect that you deserve...”
- C.H.
  from Google

Why Choose Us Over Other Truck Accident Lawyers in Omaha?

For over 20 years, Jason Bottlinger has been getting justice for semi-truck accident victims in Omaha. During this time, our law firm has won millions for our clients. The insurance companies know we mean business when they see Jason sitting across the table.

Choosing the right lawyer can make a big difference in the outcome of your case. Here’s why Bottlinger Law L.L.C. stands apart from the rest:

• Free consultation
• Selected as one of the Best Truck Accident Attorneys in Omaha by Expertise.com
• Proven results in high-stakes injury claims involving commercial vehicles
• Member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
• A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau
• You don’t pay unless we win

Injured in a Truck Accident? We Can Help

Collisions involving semi-trucks often leave victims facing devastating injuries, huge medical bills, and lost income. At Bottlinger Law L.L.C., we understand the challenges that follow these crashes, and we are committed to pursuing full compensation on your behalf. Our firm has the knowledge and resources to stand up to trucking companies and their insurers.

Call (402) 505-8234 to learn more today. Let us protect your rights and fight for the recovery you deserve.

Do You Have a Truck Accident Case?

If you've suffered serious injuries in a semi-truck accident, you have the right to seek compensation to cover the cost of your medical bills and other expenses. These cases can be complicated, and truckers, trucking companies, and other parties may be liable. When you meet with Bottlinger Law L.L.C. for your free consultation, we can tell you if you have a viable case.

Available Compensation for Truck Accident Claims

After listening to your full account of what happened and reviewing police reports, company documents, eyewitness reports, and medical records, our law firm can determine the precise amount of compensation you deserve. This will include all costs incurred as a result of your accident, such as:

• Reduced quality of life
• Rehabilitation costs
• Pain and suffering
• Medical expenses
• Property Damage
• Lost Wages

We Want to Help You Recover

At Bottlinger Law L.L.C., we provide personalized legal services to people who have been injured in semi-truck accidents. Call our experienced Omaha big rig accident attorney at (402) 505-8234 to set up a free consultation.

The Statute of Limitations for Truck Accidents in Omaha, NE

The statute of limitations in Nebraska is typically four years, but there are exceptions. For example, you may have more time to file a lawsuit if the victim is a minor under 21 or if the injuries aren't immediately apparent. When you call Bottlinger Law L.L.C., we can advise you of your rights and start investigating your claim right away.

Key Evidence Used in Truck Accident Investigations

After a truck crash, our firm acts quickly to analyze this evidence, which is essential to building a strong case.

Black Box Data

Most commercial trucks are equipped with an Event Data Recorder (EDR), often referred to as a black box. This device captures:

• Speed at the time of the crash
• Brake usage
• Engine RPMs
• Seatbelt status
• Sudden stops or acceleration

Black box data can be crucial in proving whether a truck was speeding, braking suddenly, or operating unsafely at the time of the collision. We work with experts to collect and interpret this information before it is deleted or overwritten.

Driver Logs & Maintenance Records

Commercial truck drivers are required to log their hours electronically to comply with federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations. These records can help determine whether the driver was fatigued or operating beyond legal limits. Maintenance records may show if the truck was roadworthy or if safety concerns were ignored.

We also investigate:

• Inspection reports
• Repair logs
• Past safety violations
• Records of prior crashes involving the same vehicle or driver

Accident Reconstruction & Expert Testimony

In complex truck accident cases, we may bring in engineers or accident reconstruction experts to:

• Recreate the accident scene
• Analyze skid marks, debris, and damage
• Evaluate vehicle positions and physics

Expert testimony can help illustrate how the crash occurred and who is at fault, providing a compelling foundation for your claim in negotiations or at trial.

Who Can Be Liable for an Omaha Truck Accident?

When it comes to determining blame for a truck accident, there are several parties that can carry the brunt of the responsibility. This includes:

• The driver: Truck drivers have the same duty of care to the vehicles around them as other motor vehicle operators on the road—even more so because they are professional drivers with a commercial driver's license. When they behave in a negligent manner, which results in an accident, this duty of care is violated. While most commercial truckers care about safety, too many drive recklessly or under the influence of narcotics and do not take their legally mandated breaks.
• The trucking company: There are times when truckers drive recklessly or violate federal regulations because their parent companies put unreasonable expectations on them. This can lead to overloaded trucks or deadlines that do not allow drivers to rest appropriately. Your lawyer should investigate the circumstances of the accident to determine if the trucking company put profit over safety.
• Truck and part manufacturers: Defective motor vehicles present distinct dangers to drivers on Nebraska’s interstates and highways. This is especially true when the vehicle in question is a massive semi-truck with thousands of vital parts. If you were involved in a truck accident due to an equipment malfunction, we could pursue legal action against the manufacturer to get you and your family justice.

Since the victims of these crashes often suffer catastrophic injuries, like shattered bones, spinal cord trauma, crushed limbs, organ rupture, and brain damage, it is important to get them medical treatment first and to continue treatment until maximum recovery.

What Causes Truck Accidents?

As stated in the Large Truck Crash Causation Study Analysis Brief published by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), of all the large trucks studied that were involved in single and multi-vehicle accidents, 55% of the trucks or their drivers were “the critical cause” for the crash.

Researchers in this large study found that the top 10 factors in traffic accidents associated with large trucks, in descending order, were:

• Truck brake problems: A truck weighs up to forty tons when it’s operating at full capacity. With that much inertia, it takes a considerable amount of time to slow down. If the brakes aren’t operating at their highest capacity, a truck is a hazard for everyone on the road.
• Interruption of traffic flow: Truck drivers are often tired from working long hours, and they can become distracted like anyone else. If they don’t respond immediately to disruptions in traffic, such as traffic congestion or a wreck, the consequences can be deadly.
• Driver prescription drug use: The misuse of prescription drugs is a huge problem in our society, and when truckers abuse prescription drugs, it simply isn't possible for them to be alert enough to do their job in a responsible manner.
• Speeding: Many truckers exceed the speed limit because they're in a hurry to complete their haul, or they may be pressured by employers to meet unrealistic quotas. This makes them a danger to everyone on the road.
• Unsafe winter driving habits: Winter weather impacts truck safety significantly. The combination of ice, snow, and freezing temperatures can lead to reduced traction, longer stopping distances, and decreased visibility. Icy roads are particularly hazardous, so it's crucial for drivers to reduce their speed and maintain a safe following distance when ice is present.
• Driver unfamiliar with roadway: Every road and highway has its own unique hazards. Being in unfamiliar territory can put a truck driver and others at risk.
• Roadway problems: In many cases, the roads in this country are not as well-maintained as they should be. This creates safety problems for everyone.
• Stopping time: Stopping time is a lot longer for trucks, and if drivers are not watchful for crosswalks and traffic signs, they will not be able to stop in time to protect pedestrians and other drivers.
• Over-the-counter drug use: When overused, over-the-counter drugs such as antihistamines and stimulants designed to keep people awake can cause a driver to be sleepy or too edgy to do their job safely.
• Distracted driving: Driver distraction is a big problem these days, especially when truck drivers are using their cell phones or trying to perform some other task, such as changing the radio while driving.
• Driver fatigue: There are strict rules about the number of hours truck drivers are supposed to be working per week, but sometimes, they break these rules to meet their schedule, leading to driver fatigue and endangering public safety.

What Are Different Types of Truck Accidents?

Some wrecks are distinct to semi-trucks, and they can result in traumatic damage to both vehicles and passengers involved. These accidents include:

• Jackknifes: When a tractor-trailer jackknifes, the trailer folds in on the cab at a sharp angle into a shape similar to a pocketknife. This can occur when the truck starts to skid out of control or a driver operates the vehicle in a reckless manner. In Nebraska, one of the leading causes of jackknife accidents is poor weather conditions. In the winter months, our roads and highways can be extremely dangerous for vehicles. However, jackknifing can occur due to equipment failure. If the truck's load is heavy or unevenly balanced, it is more likely to jackknife.
• Underrides: An underride occurs when a passenger vehicle collides with a truck, and the front end goes partially or completely under the rear or side of the trailer, sometimes sheering the roof off the vehicle. This is incredibly dangerous for the driver and passengers in the smaller vehicle and often ends in serious injury or death.
• Rollovers: Due to their large size, trucks have a higher center of gravity and are particularly vulnerable to rollover accidents. These accidents can result in a large amount of debris, wreckage, and machinery spilling out all over the road, presenting serious dangers to oncoming vehicles.
• Runaway trailers: A runaway trailer occurs when the speed of the trailer and the speed of the cab differ, which results in the truck veering out of control or the trailer detaching from the cab. There is no stopping a runaway, out-of-control trailer once it has broken away from the truck. The results of such a crash can involve numerous vehicles and be deadly for those involved.

We’re Ready to Stand Up for You

Truck accidents can cause life-changing injuries and overwhelming financial strain. At Bottlinger Law L.L.C., we take on negligent drivers and powerful trucking companies to protect your future. You don’t have to face this battle alone; our firm is ready to guide you every step of the way.

Call (402) 505-8234 for your free consultation. Let us fight for the compensation you need to move forward.

Common Types of Injuries in Truck Accidents

Semi-trucks cause devastating injuries when they crash into motorcycles, pedestrians, cyclists, or people traveling inside cars, trucks, and SUVs. This may include:

• Amputation
• Bone fractures
• Crush injuries
• Internal injuries
• Nerve damage
• Severe burns
• Spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Whiplash
• Neck and back injuries

Settlement vs. Trial: What to Expect

Many truck accident claims settle before trial, but every case is different. Our goal is to resolve your case in a way that maximizes your compensation.

Settlement Timelines

Most personal injury cases are resolved through negotiation. Once we've gathered evidence and assessed the value of your case, we present a demand letter to the insurance company. Sometimes the other side drags its feet until the trial is about to begin, and cases may settle at any time before a verdict is reached.

If Your Case Goes to Trial

If the insurer denies responsibility or makes an inadequate settlement offer, we are always prepared to go to trial. This process may take longer, but it can result in higher compensation. A trial allows your story to be told before a jury, supported by expert testimony and documented evidence.

Timeline

Truck accident cases may settle in a few months, but they could also take several months or longer to resolve. Factors that influence the timeline of a case include the number of witnesses called upon to testify and the other side’s willingness to negotiate in good faith. Throughout the process, Bottlinger Law L.L.C. will keep you informed, involved, and prepared for each step.

You Need Experienced Legal Representation After a Truck Accident

An accident that involves a truck is significantly different from a typical motor vehicle accident. Truck wrecks are complex cases that often have several responsible parties and multiple lawyers representing the other side. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has a detailed set of standards and safety regulations that apply exclusively to truck drivers and trucking companies. You need an Omaha truck accident attorney representing you who is fully aware of these special guidelines and knows exactly when a federal violation has occurred.

The insurance companies will try to show that the accident was not caused by the truck driver or company, or they will try to convince you to accept a lowball settlement out of court. Even when dealing with your own insurance company, their number one objective is to save their shareholders' money. After a serious truck crash, it is vital to have an Omaha auto accident attorney who has extensive knowledge and experience with these kinds of accidents.

Testimonials From Past Clients

While any litigation can be tiresome and stressful, Jason Bottlinger made the process clear and successful. He is very competent and professional, and we were kept apprised of our case. With luck, we will never need this kind of representation again, but we trust him to handle any legal issue we may have in the future.

- Larry Wilson (5-Star Google Review)

Jason and his assistants helped in getting the maximum for our case. He and his team are thoughtful and caring of each individual's situation and follow through on every detail. Do not waste your time looking anywhere else. They are truly a blessing. I just can't thank them enough!

- Debbie Findeis (5-Star Google Review)

When I was injured in a wreck, Jason and his team were there for me and my family. They treated us with respect and dignity. They were very professional, prompt, and helpful through the whole process. Thank you for everything and God bless.

- David Hernandez (5-Star Google Review)

We Know How to Fight for You

At Bottlinger Law L.L.C., our founding attorney began his career fighting against insurance companies in high-value disputes. This unique knowledge of how the other side operates gives us an edge in representing individuals in Omaha personal injury matters, including claims against large trucking firms.

If you or your loved one has been seriously injured in a collision with a tractor-trailer in Omaha, call (402) 505-8234 and schedule a FREE consultation. If we take your case, we'll work to get you the best possible results.

Other Locations We Serve in Nebraska

• Bellevue
• Bennington
• Fremont
• Papillion and La Vista
• Ralston Truck Accident

Truck Accident FAQs

What Should I Do After a Truck Accident in Nebraska?

After a truck accident, call 911, seek medical help, use your cell phone camera to document the accident scene, and contact Bottlinger Law L.L.C. right away.

Do I Need an Attorney for a Truck Accident Case?

If you hire an Omaha semi-truck accident attorney for representation, you're much more likely to get fair compensation. We can negotiate with the insurance company to maximize your compensation, and we won't hesitate to take your case to trial if the other side refuses to make a serious settlement offer.

Who Can be Liable in a Semi-Truck Accident in Omaha, Nebraska?

Trucking companies, third-party truck-loading companies, manufacturers of defective trucks, and other drivers involved in the accident could all be at fault.

What Compensation Can I Seek After a Semi-Truck Accident?

Yes, you can. More specifically, victims of semi-truck accidents may pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, rehabilitation costs, and more.

What if I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?

Nebraska follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages as long as you're less than 50 percent at fault. But your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault.

About Our Attorney

Jason Bottlinger

License Number: 23572

Attorney Jason Bottlinger founded Bottlinger Law L.L.C. in 2013 with a mission to provide honest, compassionate legal help to those in need. Over the years, Jason has earned a reputation for integrity, diligence, and personalized service. Jason focuses much of his practice on personal injury law, including complex truck accident litigation. His thorough understanding of federal and state trucking regulations, combined with a strategic approach to negotiation and litigation, gives clients a strong advantage.

Additional Information

• How the Future of AI in Trucking May Change Your Rights After an Accident
• What Happens If the Truck Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance After an Accident?
• Can AI-Driven Trucks Be Liable in an Accident? A Lawyer’s Perspective
• How Truck Accident Lawyers Are Preparing for Expected ELD Regulatory Updates in 2025
• FMCSA: Large Truck Crash Causation Study - Analysis Brief
• Large Truck Fatality Facts - IIHS