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Truck Accidents

Washington DC Truck Accident Lawyers

Helping You Rebuild After A Serious Trucking Accident

Being involved in an accident with a big rig, semi-truck, tanker, flatbed, or other commercial vehicle can often prove catastrophic. Fully loaded, a tractor-trailer may weigh 80,000 pounds or even more with an oversize vehicle permit. Smaller vehicles may be crushed or have their roofs sheared right off by large trucks, with occupants sustaining catastrophic injuries. Some truck accidents are deadly.

The sheer size and weight of a commercial truck makes it a potential hazard if it is not operated, loaded, and maintained properly. At Fay Law Group, we represent victims of trucking accidents and their families. Our team works to expose truck driver and trucking company negligence in order to help our clients recover the compensation they need to make their lives whole again – and to promote the safety of everyone on the road. Our Washington DC truck accident attorneys are committed to righting wrongs in every way we can.

If you were injured or lost a loved one in a truck accident, Fay Law Group is here for you. Call Our Washington DC truck accident attorneys at (202) 589-1300 or contact us online for a free consultation.

Why Do Truck Accidents Happen?

There are many different potential causes of truck accidents, including:

Truck operators, owners, trucking companies, loading companies, truck manufacturers, or shipping companies may all be responsible for causing a truck accident through any one of the above scenarios.

What Are the Most Common Injuries Caused By Truck Accidents?

Truck accidents can lead to devastating injuries for victims due to the immense size and weight of large trucks. Some of the most common injuries resulting from truck accidents include:

  • Fractures, broken bones, and dislocations
  • Severe lacerations or contusions
  • Spinal cord injuries leading to paralysis
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
  • Internal organ damage
  • Soft tissue and nerve damage
  • Amputation or loss of limb
  • Burns from fuel tank explosions
  • Fatalities

How Do Trucking Laws Differ From Other Vehicle Accidents?

Trucking laws differ from those governing other automobile accidents due to the specific regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations focus on the operation, loading, and maintenance of large trucks. They apply to vehicles carrying over 10,000 pounds and/or transporting hazardous materials.

Truck drivers are subject to strict hours of service regulations, limiting consecutive driving hours without a break and the total operating hours in a 24-hour period. They must also undergo regular physical examinations as required by federal law, and they can be subjected to random drug and alcohol testing.

These regulations are complex and vary based on factors such as truck size, weight, and cargo. To build a strong case against a negligent truck driver or trucking company, it is essential to have an attorney who understands all relevant federal laws and regulations.

What Steps Should I Take Immediately After A Trucking Accident?

After a trucking accident in Washington DC, it is crucial to take specific actions to protect your rights and strengthen your potential legal case. As experienced accident lawyers at Fay Law Group, P.A., we recommend the following steps:

  1. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention: Your first concern should be your safety. If at all feasible, relocate to a secure area and look for any injuries. Immediately seek medical assistance, even if you are feeling well. Certain injuries might not show up right away.
  2. Call the Authorities: Inform the police about the accident. The accident will be recorded in an official police report, which might be an important piece of evidence in your case.
  3. Document the Scene: Record the accident site using pictures and videos, documenting the damage to the vehicle, the state of the road, and any injuries that are visible. Get witness contact information, make a note of the truck's license plate number, and corporate information.
  4. Exchange Information: Get the name, contact information, insurance information, and employer details of the truck driver. Give your details as well, but refrain from addressing accountability or fault.
  5. Preserve Evidence: Save any correspondence pertaining to the accident, including repair estimates and medical records. This proof is essential to your argument.
  6. Consult a Specialized Attorney: Get in touch with Washington, DC, truck accident lawyers as soon as you can. An expert attorney from Fay Law Group, P.A. can assist you in gathering evidence, navigating the convoluted legal system, and negotiating on your behalf with insurance companies.
  7. Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Alone: Insurance providers might attempt to downplay your claim. Send all correspondence to your truck accident attorney to guarantee that your rights are upheld.

Taking these steps can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation for your injuries and damages. Contact our trucking accident attorneys in Washington DC for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.

How Trucking Companies Can Be Held Accountable

Trucking companies can be held liable for accidents caused by their drivers in several ways, particularly when their actions or negligence contributed to the crash. Here are some common ways trucking companies can be held accountable:

  • Driver Training: Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their drivers are properly trained to operate large vehicles. If a driver lacks adequate training or the company fails to provide the proper instruction, they may be held responsible for accidents caused by driver error.
  • Oversight and Supervision: Employers must closely monitor their drivers to ensure they follow safety regulations. This includes checking driving logs to ensure drivers aren’t exceeding allowable hours, monitoring for signs of fatigue or impairment, and ensuring compliance with traffic laws.
  • Vehicle Maintenance: A trucking company is responsible for maintaining its vehicles and ensuring they are in good working order. If poor maintenance, such as failing to inspect brakes or tires, leads to an accident, the company can be held liable.
  • Safety Practices: Trucking companies must implement safety protocols, such as ensuring drivers are not overworked or overloaded. If the company fails to enforce safety practices, they may be partially or fully responsible for the accident.

Understanding Comparative Fault in Truck Accident Claims

In many states, including Washington DC, the concept of comparative fault is applied in truck accident claims. This means that fault for the accident is distributed among the parties involved based on their level of responsibility.

  • Determining Fault: A percentage of fault is assigned to each party involved, including the truck driver, the trucking company, or even other drivers. For example, if the truck driver was speeding but the other driver was also distracted, both parties may share fault.
  • Impact on Compensation: Under comparative fault principles, a victim’s compensation may be reduced by their assigned percentage of fault. For example, if the victim is found 20% at fault, their compensation will be reduced by 20%. This is important when negotiating settlements.

The Importance of Black Box Data in Truck Accident Investigations

Commercial trucks are often equipped with an event data recorder (EDR), commonly known as a “black box.” This device records crucial information about the truck’s operation and can provide critical evidence in an accident investigation.

WHAT DOES A DC TRUCK ACCIDENT ATTORNEY DO?

A truck accident attorney plays a crucial role in assisting individuals who have suffered injuries due to the negligence of truck drivers and trucking companies. They provide comprehensive legal support to ensure their clients' rights are protected. Some of the key services offered by a truck accident lawyer include:

  • Conducting a thorough investigation of the accident scene to determine all potential sources of liability.
  • Gathering essential evidence such as police reports, medical records, witness statements, photographs of the crash site, truck maintenance logs, inspection certificates, and other relevant documentation.
  • Assessing damages by reviewing medical bills and calculating wage loss resulting from missed work due to accident-related injuries.
  • Negotiating with insurance companies or defendants on behalf of the client to secure a fair settlement.
  • Filing compensation claims if necessary to pursue the client's rightful damages.
  • Representing clients in trials or hearings before judges or juries, ensuring their interests are strongly advocated for.

At Fay Law Group, our experienced Washington DC truck accident lawyers are dedicated to fighting for maximum compensation and achieving the justice you deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck crash due to someone else's negligence, contact us today to learn more about your legal rights and explore your options. We are here to provide the assistance you need.

HEAR IT FROM OUR CLIENTS

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    “Thank you for representing myself and other marines in this quest for justice!”
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HOW CAN A TRUCK ACCIDENT ATTORNEY ASSIST YOU?

At Fay Law Group, our experienced personal injury attorneys in Washington, DC are well-versed in both state and federal laws concerning tractor-trailers and other large commercial vehicles. We will guide you through your rights under these laws while investigating your accident to determine fault.

We are prepared to take on any party responsible for the accident, whether it's the truck driver, their employer, a shipping company, or even a manufacturer of defective parts. Our goal is to secure the compensation you deserve, covering medical expenses, lost income, disability, pain and suffering, rehabilitation costs, and more.

Fay Law Group's legal professionals have earned a strong reputation in Washington, DC and beyond. Our track record demonstrates our dedication to fighting for victims' rights, even if it means going to court. We will do everything possible to ensure you receive the justice you deserve after an injury caused by negligence.

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Get Started Today with a Free Consultation

It is important to determine what caused your accident, so the proper individual or entity can be brought to justice. This is a crucial part of your claim, and our Washington DC truck accident lawyers will use all of our talent and resources to establish fault and show the full and fair value of your claim.

Call (202) 589-1300 to get more information regarding your options and rights after a truck accident. We serve all of the District of Columbia and Maryland.

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