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Tractor trailers, commonly known as trucks or 18-wheelers, often create complex claims and severe injuries when they get into a crash. Their size alone makes them more powerful than a car; a tractor-trailer may weigh up to 80,000 pounds, whereas the average weight of a vehicle is typically around 4,000 pounds. The Raleigh trucking accident attorneys at Maginnis Howard have years of experience recovering millions for victims and their families.
Most motor vehicle accidents are caused by negligence. This occurs when a driver or company acts carelessly or recklessly. While everyone on the road is responsible for using extreme caution, it is arguably even more imperative that truckers act conscientiously. The size of their vehicles and the typical long hours they drive in one period can result in disastrous consequences. Some of the common causes of tractor-trailer collisions include:
The first step in any personal injury case is establishing liability. In tractor-trailer accidents, liability may not only apply to the driver. Trucking companies are responsible for conducting adequate background checks of a driver’s record. This includes any past alcohol or drug-related driving convictions or loss of commercial driver’s license status. Training should be provided as there are differences between driving a car and a tractor-trailer and additional responsibilities. Truck drivers may struggle to handle the truck’s large size, navigate tight turns, or react appropriately in high-pressure situations. Inadequate training on safe driving techniques, such as maintaining proper distance, managing speed, and responding to blind spots, increases the likelihood of mistakes that can lead to severe accidents. When drivers aren’t fully prepared to operate such heavy machinery, their errors can have severe consequences, endangering themselves and others.
The first step in any personal injury case is establishing liability. In tractor-trailer accidents, liability may not only apply to the driver. Trucking companies are responsible for conducting adequate background checks of a driver’s record. This includes any past alcohol or drug-related driving convictions or loss of commercial driver’s license status. Training should be provided as there are differences between driving a car and a tractor-trailer and additional responsibilities. Truck drivers may struggle to handle the truck’s large size, navigate tight turns, or react appropriately in high-pressure situations. Inadequate training on safe driving techniques, such as maintaining proper distance, managing speed, and responding to blind spots, increases the likelihood of mistakes that can lead to severe accidents. When drivers aren’t fully prepared to operate such heavy machinery, their errors can have severe consequences, endangering themselves and others.
North Carolina truckers and their employers must adhere to state and federal laws to ensure everyone’s safety.
Understanding the proper steps to take after a car accident to ensure the best outcome is vital for a smooth process. It is normal to feel overwhelmed immediately after an accident. Knowing these steps can help you to understand what you should do next to ease your mind. Follow these steps after an accident:
After a tractor-trailer collision, injured parties may be able to recover various types of damages, depending on the severity of the accident and their specific losses. These damages can include:
Trucking accidents have the potential to disrupt your entire life. They are some of the most complicated and insurance companies will work to get you the lowest settlement they can. They may claim that you were partly to blame for your injuries (this is called contributory negligence). Additionally, you have just 3 years from the date of the accident to file a claim. Hiring an attorney means all you have to do is focus on healing and getting back to life before the collision.
There are numerous personal injury firms in the Raleigh area, but what sets Maginnis Howard apart? Our attorneys are among the best in the business and have recovered millions for clients involved in car accidents. We prioritize our clients and customize each case to meet your specific needs. Instead of rushing to settle your case, we strive to ensure that you receive every dollar you are entitled to. If you’re looking for attorneys who will prioritize your interests above all else, get in touch with us today.
Trucking accidents can be catastrophic and incredibly complicated. The driver and employer must be held responsible when a trucker or company’s negligence causes a collision. If you or a loved one has been involved in a tractor-trailer collision, contacting a lawyer is crucial to protecting your rights and ensuring you receive fair compensation. Contact a Raleigh trucking accident attorney to schedule a free consultation. To reach an intake specialist, visit our contact page or submit an inquiry through our Live Chat feature. You may also call us at (919) 526-0450. We accept clients across the Carolinas.
