Commercial Vehicle & Truck Accident Questions

Maryland

What is the difference between a car accident and a trucking accident?

In the moment of impact, the greatest difference is the physical disparity between cars and trucks. While most passenger vehicles weigh about 3,000 pounds, the legal limit for truck weight is 80,000 pounds, and overweight truck permits are regularly issued for vehicles weighing 100,000 pounds or more. In addition, the different shape of the vehicles can be a big factor. Since truck trailers have a much higher chassis than passenger vehicles, cars that share the road with trucks are subject to deadly under ride accidents, where the car passes partway under the trailer and the passenger compartment is crushed or sheared off.

After the accident, there are also significant differences in the way the claim is handled. Many truck companies run what might be termed a full-court press to get you to accept a quick settlement or admit fault to let them off the hook for the accident. Truckers often contact their company before they contact the police or other authorities, so by the time you have been cut free of your car, there may already be a representative on the scene offering you “help” and trying to get a statement. Do not make any statements to a company representative. Make only statements to police as required.

If you have been in a truck accident, contact the team of experienced truck accident lawyers at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata, & Siegel, P.C. right away.

What should I do after my truck accident?

Follow the same steps after a truck accident as after an auto accident, but make sure you get as much information regarding the driver, the truck, and the trucking company as possible. In addition, make sure you don’t give any statements to the representatives of the trucking company on the scene.

What if I made a statement or signed an accident report for the trucking company?

In making a statement or signing a report, you may have damaged your case, but it is possible it may be salvaged. These tactics are common, and many judges can see through them, especially if you have an experienced truck accident lawyer on your side to present the facts of the case that can shed light on the actual circumstances of the accident.

What is a commercial truck?

A commercial truck is a large vehicle (>10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight) that is used to transport commercial goods or supplies. Examples of commercial trucks include tractor-trailer trucks, tankers, and dump trucks. Because of their potential for property and personal damage, these trucks and their drivers, owners, and operators are regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) as well as state and local laws to reduce the number of injurious accidents they cause. Of all large trucks accidents, over 62 % of them involve semi trucks.

Who is liable in a truck accident?

In an accident involving a commercial truck, there is a much wider range of people who might be responsible than in an automobile accident. Every case is unique, but the web of liability for a truck accident can extend to:

• Truck driver
• Truck owner
• Freight owner
• Trucking company
• Loading company
• Shipping company
• Vehicle or vehicle equipment manufacturer
• Road construction or maintenance entities

Why do truck accidents occur?

A March 2006 report by the FMCSA to Congress lists over two dozen factors that are critical factors or contributory factors in truck accidents. For over 87% of accidents, the driver was listed as a critical factor. Contributory factors for truck accidents include:

• Brake failure or partial failure: 30%
• Traffic Congestion 28%
• Prescription drug use: 26%
• Traveling too fast for conditions: 23%
• Unfamiliar with roadway: 22%
• Roadway related factors: 21%

My truck accident occurred in Maryland, but I live in Virginia (or vice versa) where should I file my claim?

We have offices in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington D.C. for your convenience. In truck accidents, you can file your claim either in the jurisdiction where the accident occurred, or in the jurisdiction where the company was incorporated, is located, or regularly does business. The trucking accident lawyers at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata, & Siegel, P.C. can determine where it is best to file the case.

What should I do if I am afraid I can’t afford an attorney?

The experienced trucking accident lawyers at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata, & Siegel give you a free consultation and case evaluation. Then, we work on a contingency basis, so we don’t get paid unless you do.

The best way to find out more details of your possible case in a truck accident is to bring your claim to an experienced truck accident lawyer at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. for evaluation. Email or call us at our Maryland, Virginia, or Washington D.C. offices.

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