We as a country depend on our truck drivers. We need them to transport our goods, whether it be produce, online merchandise or any other commercial goods. However, we also rely on our truck drivers to do their jobs safely. Truckers are required to work long hours–up to 70 hours per week. Naturally, truck drivers are very often fatigued and possibly even too tired to do their job. Additionally, there is a significant amount of pressure that truckers meet all their deadlines, which sometimes forces truckers to drive recklessly. If you have been involved in a truck accident and wish to recover compensation, here are some of the questions you may have:
What are some of the main causes of truck accidents?
Trucks are massive, some weighing up to around 80,000 pounds. Additionally, with an average length of 45 feet, the smallest mistake could have huge consequences. Some of the most common causes of truck accidents are:
- Dangerous or defective truck design
- Dangerous or defective truck parts
- Dangerous or negligent road design
- Employer negligence
- Driver negligence
What are some types of driver negligence?
There are various ways in which a trucker may operate his or her motor vehicle in a negligent manner. Here are some examples of negligent driving behavior:
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Texting while driving
- Reckless driving
- Driving too fast for weather or road conditions
- Sudden lane changes
- Driving while drowsy or fatigued
- Failure to comply with traffic signs or lights
- Disregarding other rules of the road
If you can prove a truck driver was doing any of these things at the time of your accident, there is a good chance you will be entitled to recover compensation for the injuries you have sustained. However, if you are involved in a truck accident, you will need to hire an attorney as soon as you can. Truck and insurance companies will most likely hire a team of legal experts who know the ins and outs of how to deny you of the compensation you deserve. An experienced attorney may be what you need to win your claim. If you are suffering at the hands of another negligent party, do not let them win. Contact a firm who will fight tenaciously for your rights.
Can you hold employers responsible for truck accidents as well?
Depending on the circumstances, you absolutely can. Some examples of employer negligence are as follows:
- Negligent hiring or employee training
- Improper truck maintenance
- Improperly loaded or oversized vehicles
Contact our Connecticut firm
Marc N. Needelman is an experienced attorney working throughout the state of Connecticut. Contact the law firm to set up a free initial consultation for matters, related to real estate, personal injury, criminal defense, estate planning, and more.
