Commercial Trucking Accident Attorney In Catonsville, Maryland
With over 37 million commercial trucking vehicles registered in the U.S., these vehicles move roughly 72% of the nation’s freight across the country. Since so many big rigs are on the roadways, accidents are inevitable. Unfortunately, because most commercial trucks are 20-30 times larger than a typical car, truck or SUV, these heavy haulers can cause massive destruction in an instant.
At BSS Law, LLC, attorney Bradley Shepherd understands how devastating a trucking accident can be to you and your family. The damages, physical injuries and loss that result from a truck accident can be an overwhelming burden. In addition, commercial trucking accidents are far more complex to investigate, determine fault and hold the negligent party liable for damages.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured by a tractor-trailer or large commercial vehicle, contact BSS Law, LLC, today. Attorney Bradley Shepherd has the resources, experience and knowledge to review the specifics of your case and provide the best plan to help you recover physically, emotionally and financially. He proudly serves clients in Catonsville, Columbia, Baltimore and across the state of Maryland.
Laws Affecting Trucking Accidents
The commercial trucking industry is governed by federal and state laws that establish standards that all commercial trucking companies and drivers must follow. These laws are complex and ever-changing. If your accident was related to a commercial driver not following these regulations, the driver and the company could be responsible for your injuries. Commercial vehicles must follow federal and state laws that include:
- Driver log books – Drivers are required to keep updated documentation for every trip. This includes daily drive time limits, required driving breaks, and maximum weekly vehicle operation.
- Maintenance records – Drivers are required to provide routine truck maintenance and ensure any necessary repairs are immediately addressed.
- Weather and road conditions – Drivers are required to reduce speed and use hazard lighting when experiencing bad weather or construction-related road conditions. Drivers must be able to safely stop during inclement weather or navigate shallow lanes and construction zones.
- Potential Dangers – Drivers and required to maintain a 360-degree view of their vehicle and surroundings at all times. Also, truck drivers are trained to use windows, mirrors and vehicle cameras to watch out for other drivers and anticipate potential dangers.
Finally, the law limits the time an accident victim has to file a claim. Maryland’s statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits, including commercial truck accident lawsuits, is three years from the date of the crash.
Liability In Trucking Accidents
Determining fault in a trucking accident is notoriously complex. Because a trucking accident involves multiple parties and entities, it is vital to work with an attorney who is experienced in commercial trucking accidents. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, those liable for the accident can include:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company or employer of the driver
- Loading companies
- Shipping companies
- Truck part manufacturers
- Repair or maintenance company
Factors In Determining Liability
When it comes to determining fault, there are many factors to consider, such as road construction and severe weather. As with most accidents involving motor vehicles, drivers are often perceived to be at fault. This is especially true when it comes to operating semi trucks and large commercial vehicles. Some common factors for considering driver liability in a truck accident are:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Aggressive driving
- Driver fatigue
- Driver under the influence
- Brake or vehicle failure
Determining liability is the keystone for any personal injury claim. One of the most crucial roles that a truck accident attorney can help with is the investigation of the accident. Based on the evidence, your attorney can identify who is at fault and help pursue the compensation you deserve.
Filing A Personal Injury Claim
It’s important to know that every personal injury claim is unique. There are, however, a few general steps for filing a claim that everyone should follow. These initial steps ensure you set yourself up for a full recovery and receive the amount of compensation you are entitled to.
- Seek medical attention – The bottom line here is that insurance companies will question the severity of your injury if you failed to receive medical attention or follow a treatment plan.
- Keep updated medical records and important documents – Gathering as much evidence as possible is critical to supporting your claim.
- Contact an experienced personal injury attorney – Trucking accidents are very complex due to federal and state regulations and the multiple parties involved. It is always in your best interest to avoid filing a claim alone.
There are a few alternative considerations if the trucking accident has resulted in the loss of life. When a person dies as a result of a commercial trucking accident, the deceased person’s family could be eligible to file a wrongful death suit. Unlike a personal injury claim that generally provides compensation for medical bills and time lost from work, a wrongful death claim can provide compensation for beneficiaries that includes:
- Financial contributions the deceased would have made to survivors
- Mental anguish and emotional pain and suffering
- Loss of society, companionship, comfort and protection
- Loss of marital, parental or filial care
- Loss of attention, advice, counsel, training, guidance or education
Contacting the right personal injury attorney after suffering an injury in a commercial trucking accident is one of the most critical steps for filing a successful claim. At BSS Law, LLC, attorney Bradley Shepherd can evaluate your case, determine the best legal options, and investigate your eligibility for compensation. Attorney Bradley Shepherd serves accident victims and their families in Catonsville, Columbia, Baltimore and across Maryland, so reach out today.