Truck accident injury cases are complicated in ways that other auto accident cases are not. There are numerous parties involved in the transportation of each and every load of cargo on the road. The trucking industry is subject to voluminous safety regulations and laws at the state and federal level, since most travel interstate, and finally, injuries and property damage in truck accidents are generally much more severe, requiring large amounts of compensation to victims. With this in mind, if you are involved in a truck accident, it is important to consult with a skilled and knowledgeable truck accident lawyer. Trombly & Singer, PLLC is a Washington D.C.-based law firm that focuses on fighting for the rights of clients who are seriously injured by neglect. Our attorneys have decades of experience helping clients in their pursuit of compensation against liable parties. For a free consultation with an experienced attorney, contact Trombly & Singer, PLLC today.
Types of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents take many forms. Most accidents involving a passenger vehicle and a large truck will have catastrophic effects on the passenger vehicle due to the major weight and size difference between the two vehicles. Common types of truck accidents include:
- Rollover accidents
- Head-on collisions
- Jackknife accidents
- Underride accidents
- Blind spot or “no-zone” accidents
Mechanical Problems Lead to Accidents
Like any other vehicle, trucks are subject to mechanical problems. Tire blowouts, brake issues, and breakdowns are just some of the many issues that could have been avoided with the right care. When a mechanical problem causes a serious injury accident, establishing the liable party is complicated. While sometimes the blame can be on the company that owns the truck, other times, the victim may need to bring a product liability case because of a defecting part. Knowing which is complicated and takes the services of an effective attorney.
A Driver’s Job Leads to Accidents
The job of a truck driver is not an easy one. They are overwhelmed by employers who pressure them to make up the time lost by federal restrictions limiting their allotted hours allowed to operate. Truck drivers are limited to 11 hours of driving within a 14-hour work day. Furthermore, a truck driver may not work more than 70 hours a week, down from the previous 82 hours. While these restrictions are in place to protect drivers, employers often do not want to see a change in productivity. This immense pressure leads to careless driving and a greater danger of accidents.
A Lack of Visibility Leads to Accidents
Trucks are large and hard to maneuver. The size of these vehicles makes it hard to see every section of the road. Blind spots are known to cause collisions or trap vehicles. It is important for drivers to take the proper care when changing lanes. When they drive negligently, they can cause serious damage.
The Weight of a Truck Leads to Accidents
One of the things that make a truck hard to maneuver is the weight of the vehicle. The braking distance is quite different for trucks than for other vehicles. A truck’s average length is about 45 to 65 feet. With a weight of up to 80,000 lbs, a truck would need about 2 football fields to come to a complete stop. If a truck is overloaded or the driver is speeding, the negligence of either can lead to serious repercussions.
Contact a Washington D.C. Truck Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured in a truck accident in the District, do not hesitate to contact the legal team at Trombly & Singer, PLLC. Our attorneys have decades of experience in handling serious personal injury claims related to truck accidents. You can rest assured knowing that we will work tirelessly to handle your claim for damages so that you can focus on what matters most – your recovery and your family. Contact Trombly & Singer, PLLC for a free initial consultation.
