According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 5,472 people died in traffic crashes involving large trucks in 2023. Of those fatalities, 70 percent were occupants of other vehicles. These devastating collisions are largely caused by the massive size and operational demands of commercial trucks, and when a truck accidentoccurs, a personal injury attorney can review the evidence to determine liability.
Driver Fatigue Can Be a Major Issue
Commercial truck drivers are often required to operate their vehicles during overnight hours, which naturally increases the risk of drowsiness. Because fatigue can severely delay reaction speed or cause a driver to fall asleep behind the wheel, federal agencies strictly limit the number of hours a commercial operator can drive before requiring mandatory rest breaks.
A lawyer experienced in car accidents can analyze the driver’s logbooks and the time of the crash to establish whether driver fatigue played a role in the collision.
Large Trucks Take Longer to Brake
When a passenger vehicle, motorcyclist, or pedestrian is struck by a commercial vehicle, investigating attorneys will review physical evidence to see if the truck driver made a timely effort to stop.
As a rule, heavy commercial trucks require a stopping distance 20 to 40 percent longer than passenger vehicles. This physical reality does not excuse operators from driving recklessly; they are expected to account for this extended stopping distance based on their speed and road conditions.
Inexperienced Drivers May Make Errors
In a personal injury claim involving a commercial vehicle, an attorney will thoroughly evaluate the credentials and training history of the driver. If an investigation reveals that a driver was improperly trained, that information can be powerful leverage in settlement negotiations or at trial.
Furthermore, trucking companies can be held liable if they fail to follow federal entry-level driver training guidelines before putting an operator on the road.
Issues With the Truck Itself Could Cause an Accident
Commercial vehicles endure intense wear and tear, making routine maintenance critical for highway safety. Federal regulations require all commercial motor vehicles to undergo systematic inspection, repair, and maintenance to ensure components such as brakes and steering systems are free of defects.
If a truck accident lawyer finds that the owner or driver neglected to maintain the vehicle properly, this failure can constitute negligence.
Distracted Driving Might Be a Problem
Just like anyone else on the road, commercial drivers can be distracted by eating, adjusting the radio, or looking at a phone. However, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) strictly prohibits commercial vehicle drivers from texting or using hand-held mobile phones while driving.
To uncover whether distracted driving caused an accident, an attorney can subpoena cellphone records, review police reports, and depose witnesses to understand the events leading up to the crash.
Poor Weather May Contribute to an Increased Crash Rate
When reviewing a case, a certified civil trial lawyer will consider the weather conditions present at the time of the collision. Commercial drivers are legally required to exercise extreme caution and reduce speed in hazardous conditions such as rain, snow, or ice. In severe scenarios, they must stay off the road completely until conditions improve. Failing to slow down or utilize proper equipment like tire chains in adverse weather is a strong indicator of negligence.
Protect Your Legal Rights After a Truck Crash
If you or a loved one has been injured in a collision with a commercial vehicle in New Brunswick, Somerville, or Manalapan, having dedicated legal representation is vital for protecting your rights.
New Jersey Truck Accident Lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. Are Ready to Assist You
After a serious crash involving a large commercial vehicle, you cannot settle for less than the very best legal representation. To learn more, reach out to the New Jersey truck accident lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P.Our experienced legal team will carefully review your case, identify the parties responsible, and fight to secure full and fair compensation. Call us today at 732-247-3600 or fill out the online form for a free consultation. Our offices are in New Brunswick, Somerville, and Manalapan, New Jersey, and we proudly serve clients in the surrounding areas.
