Baltimore Truck Accident Lawyers
Causes of Trucking Accidents
Accidents involving tractor trailers and other heavy commercial trucks can result in severe, life-changing injuries. Understanding what causes a truck accident requires an extensive knowledge of trucking regulations and the possible factors that may have contributed to the wreck. Our Maryland truck accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton have the skills and the resources to conduct a thorough investigation and uncover all responsible parties. We take on insurance companies to make sure that victims of negligence receive full compensation for current and future medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages and other damages.
Truck Driver Error
A comprehensive study conducted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration found that factors related to driver behavior were responsible for nearly 90% of serious truck accidents. Driver errors were divided into four categories:
- Decision factors – speeding, aggressive driving, following too closely
- Performance factors – driver panicked, overcompensated or exercised poor directional control
- Physical factors – drowsy driving, driver illness, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Nonperformance factors – inattention, distracted driving, failure to use signals
Truck drivers who violate federal trucking regulations are a danger to everyone they share the road with. There are also a number of factors inherent to the trucking industry that can increase the risk of a crash. Truck drivers often operate under a system of compensation that encourages them to push themselves beyond what is safe or legal. Drivers under pressure to make deliveries on time may be more likely to speed or drive more consecutive hours than what the law allows, increasing the risk of a drowsy driving accident. An experienced Maryland truck accident lawyer will know what evidence to look for and how it can be used to support an injured victim’s claim.
Truck Equipment Failure
The trucking industry is highly regulated for safety. Truck owners, drivers, loaders and shippers must adhere to very specific rules as set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. The FMCSA sets standards for truck maintenance and inspection, cargo securement and weight limits. When the cause of an accident is related to one of these factors, it is often the result of trucking companies putting profits over safety.
- Unsecured or overloaded cargo – Improperly loaded cargo can shift during turns, causing the truck to rollover. Overloaded cargo may fall off the truck, creating an obstacle for other drivers. This can be especially dangerous if the truck is carrying hazardous materials.
- Vehicle equipment failure – Faulty brakes, problems with coupling devices and steering mechanisms, non-working headlights or taillights and worn tires can be the result of any combination of improper installation, poor maintenance or inspection, or defective products.
Environmental Conditions
Extreme weather and dangerous road conditions are something that all drivers must contend with. But because large trucks are already much harder to stop and maneuver, environmental factors increase the risk of a serious crash exponentially.
- Road conditions – Poorly maintained roads, inadequate lighting or signage, animals, downed trees and other unforeseeable road hazards increase the risk of a crash for any vehicle on the road. However, truck drivers who encounter a road hazard may be better able to avoid an accident if they are alert, properly trained and driving in a safe manner.
- Weather – High winds can actually push a truck over, crushing anything its path. Wet or icy roads can cause the truck to slide or jack-knife. Heavy rain and fog reduce visibility, creating the potential for a serious multi-vehicle wreck.
Baltimore Truck Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Obtain Maximum Compensation for Truck Accident Victims and Their Families
If a serious truck accident has caused you to suffer a catastrophic injury or the wrongful death of a loved one, Baltimore truck accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton will fight for your right to compensation. We have successfully obtained more than $250 million for accident victims and their families. Call 800-547-4LAW (4529) today to schedule your free case review and discuss your options with one of our dedicated Maryland accident lawyers. Someone is available to take your call 24 hours a day or you can contact us online.
Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie and Towson, allowing us to represent accident victims and their families throughout Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Southern Maryland and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Parkville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood and Elkridge.
