A semi-truck driving across a bridge surrounded by autumn trees and a river below.

Injured in a Truck Accident? You Deserve Justice.

If you've been hurt in a crash involving an 18-wheeler, semi-truck, or other commercial vehicle, you need a dedicated truck accident lawyer in West Virginia who will stand up to the trucking companies and their insurers. At Stewart Bell, PLLC, we'll fight for maximum compensation so you can heal and rebuild your life. Contact us now for your free consultation.

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Your Truck Accident Lawyer in West Virginia

A collision with a large truck can change your life in an instant, leaving you hurt, overwhelmed, and unsure of where to turn. The trucking company and its insurance team will work quickly to protect themselves, so you need a truck accident lawyer in West Virginia who’s ready to fight for you. At Stewart Bell, PLLC, we are dedicated to advocating for injury victims across West Virginia, delivering aggressive legal representation and compassionate guidance when it matters most. Let us help you take the first step toward healing and justice.

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Help Is at Your Fingertips

Getting help with your case is as easy as a call or a click. We take it from there!

We Fight for Justice

You’ve suffered enough, and we work hard to bring you the full settlement you’re owed.

You Don’t Pay Unless We Win

We work on a contingency-fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs or hidden fees — you don’t pay unless we win for you!

What Our West Virginia Truck Accident Lawyers Can Do for You

Truck accidents are very different from regular car wrecks. Crashes involving semi-trucks, 18-wheelers, and other commercial vehicles often lead to more severe injuries and more complex legal battles. Trucking companies have big insurance providers and legal teams ready to protect their profits. You need someone on your side who knows how to hold them accountable.

At Stewart Bell, PLLC, we take that pressure off your shoulders. From the moment you hire us, we step in to protect your rights, investigate your case, and demand full and fair compensation on your behalf. We have decades of experience helping people just like you across Charleston, Huntington, Dunbar, and throughout West Virginia. We can:

  • Investigate the Accident: We uncover the facts fast. We act quickly to gather witness statements, accident reports, photos, and videos to preserve valuable evidence before it’s lost.
  • Prove Liability and Negligence: We show who’s really at fault. We work to identify all responsible parties and prove who caused the crash.
  • Negotiate With Insurance Companies: We protect you from lowball offers. We handle all communication with insurers so they can’t twist your words or pressure you into an unfair settlement.
  • Maximize Your Compensation: We fight for the full value of your claim. We will fight for a settlement or verdict that includes everything you’ll need to recover and rebuild.
  • Take Your Case to Court If Needed: We’re trial-ready. If the trucking company refuses to pay what you may deserve, we’ll take your case to court and fight aggressively on your behalf.
  • Keep You Informed at Every Step: We’ll never leave you in the dark. We keep you updated and explain your options clearly so you feel confident every step of the way.

We know how overwhelming the aftermath of a truck accident can be. That’s why our goal is simple: to make the legal process as easy as possible for you while securing the justice and financial recovery you need to move forward. Let us put our decades of experience, resources, and dedication to work for you. Reach out now for a free consultation.

Frequent Causes of Truck Accidents in West Virginia

Truck crashes can happen for many reasons, with some of the top causes including:

  • Fatigued or overworked drivers.
  • Speeding or reckless driving.
  • Distracted driving (texting, GPS, etc.).
  • Poor truck maintenance or faulty brakes.
  • Overloaded or improperly secured cargo.
  • Driving under the influence.

What Kinds of Truck and Commercial Vehicle Accidents Does Stewart Bell Handle?

Truck accidents can involve a wide range of large vehicles, many of which operate daily on West Virginia’s highways, coal routes, and logging roads. These are heavy, complex machines that require proper maintenance, training, and oversight. Our truck accident attorneys in West Virginia handle cases involving:

  • 18-Wheelers / Semi-Trucks
  • Coal Trucks
  • Logging Trucks
  • Tanker Trucks
  • Dump Trucks
  • Delivery Vans (Amazon, UPS, FedEx, etc.)
  • Flatbed Trucks
  • Garbage Trucks
  • Refrigerated Trucks
  • Tow Trucks
  • Box Trucks
  • Utility Trucks
  • Construction Vehicles

No matter what kind of truck or commercial vehicle was involved, the legal team at Stewart Bell, PLLC is ready to build a strong case on your behalf.

Our West Virginia Truck Accident Attorneys

Charleston Personal Injury Lawyer Jeff David Stewart

Attorney Jeff David Stewart

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Katherine H. Arritt

Attorney Katherine H. Arritt

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Personal Injury Lawyer Andrew Paternostro

Attorney Andrew L. Paternostro

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Common Injuries from Big Truck Accidents

Because of the size and weight of large trucks, the resulting injuries are often life-changing, such as:

  • Broken bones and fractures
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
  • Burns or disfigurement
  • Internal injuries
  • Wrongful death

If you’ve been seriously hurt in a semi-truck crash, a truck accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation and hold those responsible for your injuries accountable.

Who Is Legally Responsible for a West Virginia Truck Accident?

Determining liability in truck collisions is more complex than in other accidents. More than one person or company might be to blame, such as:

  • The truck driver
  • The trucking company
  • A maintenance provider or cargo loader
  • A vehicle or parts manufacturer

Can You Still File a Claim If You Were Partially At-Fault?

Under West Virginia’s modified comparative fault law, you can still recover damages as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.

For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 but found to be 20% at fault, your final compensation would be reduced to $80,000. But if you’re found to be more than 50% at fault, you may be barred from recovering damages entirely.

That’s why it’s critical to have an experienced semi-truck accident attorney on your side to help protect your rights, push back against unfair blame-shifting from the trucking company, and fight to ensure your fault is not exaggerated or misrepresented.

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Proving Negligence in a Truck Accident Case

To successfully recover compensation in a truck accident claim, you need to show that someone was negligent and caused the crash. Negligence means they failed to act with reasonable care under the circumstances.

At Stewart Bell, PLLC, we know what it takes to build a strong negligence claim under West Virginia law. We’ll work to show:

  1. The party had a duty to operate the vehicle safely or follow the law.
  2. That duty was violated (for example, the driver was speeding, fatigued, or improperly trained).
  3. The violation directly caused your injuries.
  4. You suffered real damages, such as medical bills, lost income, and pain.

Evidence We May Use to Prove Fault

Proving negligence requires solid evidence that shows what happened and who’s responsible, including:

  • Police reports and crash scene photos: These offer official documentation and visual proof.
  • Black box (event data recorder) data: Tracks speed, braking, and other driver actions before the crash.
  • Truck driver’s logbooks: Can reveal violations of hours-of-service rules or driver fatigue.
  • Maintenance and inspection records: Help identify mechanical failures or skipped inspections.
  • Witness statements and expert testimony: Independent accounts and expert analysis can support your version of events.

Truck accident claims are won with the right legal strategy and strong proof. Let Stewart Bell, PLLC put our resources and experience to work for you. Contact us today.

What Compensation Can You Get For a West Virginia Truck Accident?

A serious truck accident can leave you facing more than just physical injuries. We work hard to recover every dollar you may be owed, based on the full impact of your injuries and losses. Depending on your case, you may be entitled to the following types of compensation:

These cover your financial losses—anything with a specific dollar value.

  • Medical expenses: Including ER visits, surgeries, hospital stays, rehab, physical therapy, medications, and any future care you may need.
  • Lost wages: Compensation for the income you missed while recovering.
  • Reduced earning ability: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your old job or limit your future work potential.
  • Property damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle and any personal property damaged in the crash.

These account for the pain and emotional toll caused by your injuries.

  • Pain and suffering: For the physical pain you’ve endured as a result of the crash.
  • Emotional distress: Including anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health impacts.
  • Loss of enjoyment of life: If your injuries prevent you from enjoying hobbies, time with family, or other activities.
  • Loss of companionship: For spouses or family members who suffer due to your reduced ability to engage in relationships.
  • Disfigurement or permanent disability: Compensation for lasting physical changes or limitations.

In rare cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer. If the truck driver or company acted with gross negligence or intentional misconduct—such as driving under the influence or knowingly violating safety regulations—West Virginia courts may award punitive damages to deter similar behavior in the future.

 

Every case is unique, and the value of your claim depends on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your daily life, and the strength of the evidence. Our West Virginia truck accident attorneys will thoroughly review every aspect of your case and fight to recover the maximum compensation you may be entitled to.

Get Your Free Case Review

What to Do After a Commercial Truck Accident in West Virginia

After a crash with a semi-truck or commercial vehicle, the steps you take—or don’t take—can have a big impact on your health, your case, and your future. The trucking company and its insurance team will move fast to protect themselves, so it’s important to act quickly and protect your rights. Here’s what to do if you’ve been involved in a truck accident in West Virginia:

  1. Get Medical Help Immediately: Even if you feel okay, see a doctor right away. Some serious injuries may not show symptoms right away. Prompt medical treatment also creates a record that connects your injuries to the crash.
  2. Report the Accident to the Police: Call 911 and wait for law enforcement to arrive. Be honest but brief in your statement. The official accident report will be key evidence in your claim and can help document who was at fault.
  3. Gather Evidence at the Scene: If you’re able, take pictures of everything: damage to all vehicles, the truck’s company name and license plate, skid marks, road conditions, injuries, and nearby traffic signs. Also, ask for contact information from any witnesses.
  4. Don’t Talk to the Trucking Company or Their Insurance: You may be contacted by the truck driver’s employer or their insurance adjuster. Do not give a recorded statement, sign anything, or accept a settlement offer. These companies are trying to limit what they pay you, not help you.
  5. Speak to a Truck Accident Lawyer: Truck accident cases are complex, but an attorney can step in right away to protect your rights, gather time-sensitive evidence, and deal with the insurance companies for you.

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West Virginia Truck Accident FAQs

In West Virginia, you generally have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim, including truck accident cases (WV Code §55-2-12). If you miss the deadline, you could lose your right to compensation. Don’t wait—contact us today to protect your rights.

The value of your truck accident claim depends on the severity of your injuries, the cost of your medical treatment (past and future), lost income, pain and suffering, and whether the other party was grossly negligent. Every case is unique, which is why it’s important to speak with a lawyer who can calculate your specific damages.

In West Virginia, a truck accident lawsuit starts with an investigation and filing a claim against the responsible parties—often the truck driver, trucking company, or both. If a fair settlement can’t be reached through negotiation, the case may go to court. Your lawyer will handle everything from evidence gathering to negotiations, and trial if needed.

It can take anywhere from a few months to over a year to resolve a truck accident claim, depending on the complexity of the case. Factors like the severity of your injuries, how clear liability is, and whether the case settles or goes to trial will affect the timeline. Serious injury cases often take longer because it’s important to understand the full impact of the injuries before settling.

No, you shouldn’t give a recorded statement or discuss the accident with the trucking company or their insurer without speaking to your lawyer first. Insurance companies may twist your words or pressure you into saying something that could hurt your claim. Let your attorney handle all communication on your behalf.

Not without talking to a lawyer first. Initial settlement offers are usually far less than what your case is actually worth. Insurance companies aim to close cases quickly and cheaply. An attorney can review the offer and negotiate for full and fair compensation that accounts for all of your medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Maybe. Most truck accident claims settle out of court. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, your lawyer may recommend filing a lawsuit. Even then, many cases are resolved before trial.

Absolutely. Truck accident cases involve federal and state trucking regulations, commercial insurance policies, and complex liability issues. A skilled truck accident attorney knows how to protect your rights, build a strong case, and fight for maximum compensation. Without legal help, you could miss out on compensation you may be entitled to.

At Stewart Bell, PLLC, it costs nothing upfront to hire us. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if we win your case and there’s no financial risk to you.

Your Recovery Starts with the Right Truck Accident Lawyer in West Virginia

If you’ve been hurt in a crash with a semi-truck, 18-wheeler, or any commercial vehicle, you deserve more than just answers. You deserve justice, support, and someone who truly cares about what comes next. At Stewart Bell, PLLC, our qualified team of truck accident lawyers in West Virginia is here to guide you every step of the way, from the moment you contact us to the day your case is resolved. Let us take the weight off your shoulders so you can focus on healing.

Get in touch with us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We don’t get paid unless you win.

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For more than 30 years, the lawyers of Stewart Bell, PLLC have helped the people and businesses of West Virginia protect their interests and rights. We understand the issues that injured people and their families face after an accident and work quickly to obtain the MAXIMUM amount of compensation for every case we handle.

We have recovered MILLIONS of dollars for clients injured because of nursing home abuse, motor vehicle accidents or medical malpractice.

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