Given the massive size and weight of a truck in comparison to an average passenger car, truck accidents can lead to serious and even fatal injuries. Continue reading to discover the most frequent causes of truck accidents and how an experienced St. Mary’s County truck accident lawyer at the Dorsey Law Firm can assist you in acquiring the compensation you need to heal from any physical, emotional, or financial burden you may have endured.
What are the most common causes of truck accidents in Maryland?
More often than not, truck driver negligence is the cause of an accident in Maryland. An example of negligence is if they drive while fatigued, as this can lead to reduced reflex time and reaction to outside stimuli. Notably, federal law limits truck drivers to 11 working hours within a 14-hour workday and, in total, to 70 hours of driving a week. Exceeding this allotted time on the road makes truck drivers prone to drowsiness and therefore an accident.
Additionally, an average truck needs the length of about two football fields to come to a complete stop. A truck driver can display negligence if they speed or tailgate, as they shorten their window to safely stop. Given that trucks have limited visibility, a truck driver neglecting to check large blind spots before changing lanes or passing up a vehicle can also cause an accident.
However, there are some circumstances in which truck driver negligence is not the cause of an accident. For example, a truck company would be held responsible for an accident if they neglect to hire responsible and certified drivers or if they do not adequately train those drivers before allowing them on the road. Additionally, truck company employees are required to confirm that the truck is properly loaded and in proper working condition before the driver is sent out; failure to do so can leave them at fault. Another condition outside the truck driver’s control is if mechanical problems, such as tire blowouts, brake issues, and breakdowns, led to the accident; in this case, the liability would fall on the manufacturer of these defective parts.
If you are a victim of any of the above incidents, contact a skilled Leonardtown personal injury attorney to get started on your claim today.
What is the statute of limitations for truck accidents in Maryland?
The statute of limitations for a personal injury claim in Maryland is generally three years from the date of your accident.
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Our firm understands how overwhelming the claims process can be, which is why it is our job to handle the entire legal side of the matter while you focus solely on what matters most: healing. We know the ins and outs of the claims process, and we are ready to put our knowledge and experience in the field to work for you. Contact The Dorsey Law Firm today to schedule your free initial consultation.
