Fatigue is one of the most common contributing factors of truck accidents. Inadequate sleep, long work hours, and overall stress can take a toll on the trucker’s alertness and increases the chances of causing an accident. If you or a relative has been seriously injured by a drowsy driver, please reach out to our team at Parker, Pallet, Slezak & Russell, LLC for assistance. You may be owed monetary compensation for your injury care, property damage, and other losses. Our Perry Hall, MD truck accident lawyer can talk with you further about the accident and let you know much compensation we should fight for. We are prepared to help as soon as you are ready to reserve your free consultation. 

Truck Driver Fatigue

If you believe that truck driver fatigue could have been a factor in the accident, let our team member know right away during your consultation. There are several indicators of fatigue, such as driving too slowly, nodding off, and not staying within the lane. If you witnessed the driver engaging in these behaviors moments before the crash, then chances are they were fatigued. Commercial truck drivers have to travel long distances within short periods of time, and if they don’t get enough rest they can fall asleep behind the wheel. 

You may think that it would be difficult to prove the trucker was fatigued, but we can investigate by speaking with witnesses, reconstructing the accident, and seeing if they were in violation of state or federal regulations. As our Perry Hall, MD truck accident attorney explains, examples of regulations a truck driver must follow include: 

  • The 14-hour rule: when a driver starts a shift, they have 14 hours to finish their assigned tasks.
  • The 11-hour rule: during the 14 hours, 3 of these must be performing duties that do not involve driving the commercial truck.
  • The 60/70 hour rule: during any period of a week span, the trucker cannot operate the vehicle if they have been on duty for 60 or 70 hours. 

You Deserve Compensation

Victims of truck accidents are encouraged to speak with our team about compensation. The truck driver, trucking company, or another party may all share liability in what happened. Ultimately, if you were harmed in an accident with a commercial truck driver, we strongly advise learning more about your options at this time. As someone who may be dealing with immense pain and suffering and property damage, you deserve payment for what you have endured. Let us help you today. 

Parker, Pallet, Slezak & Russell, LLC

Our team knows that at this very moment, you may be dealing with too much to handle on your own. The aftermath of a truck collision can be devastating. Let our MD truck accident attorney alleviate the burden of the legal process by taking the lead on that and letting you take care of yourself. Our team at Parker, Pallet, Slezak & Russell, LLC is ready to offer support. Do not hesitate to reach out today for a consultation. 

How Can A Truck Accident Lawyer Help With My Case?

A Perry Hall truck accident lawyer plays a crucial role in helping victims navigate the complexities of a truck accident case. Truck accidents often involve severe damages, including significant injuries, vehicle damage, and potentially life-altering consequences. Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, these accidents tend to be more complicated than typical car accidents.

A truck accident lawyer from Parker, Pallet, Slezak & Russell, LLC provides valuable assistance throughout the entire legal process, from investigating the accident to securing the maximum compensation for the victim.

Investigating The Accident Thoroughly

One of the first steps a truck accident lawyer takes is to conduct a thorough investigation of the incident. Truck accidents often involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, the trucking company, and possibly third-party maintenance contractors or manufacturers.

To determine liability, your lawyer may visit the accident scene to gather evidence, take photos, and document road conditions, signage, or other environmental factors that could have contributed to the accident.

Commercial trucks are often equipped with Event Data Recorders (EDRs) or “black boxes” that track the truck’s speed, braking patterns, and other relevant data. Your lawyer can subpoena this data, which could reveal critical information about the events leading up to the crash.

They will also talk to any witnesses, including passengers, bystanders, or other drivers, who may have observed the accident. These testimonies can be crucial in establishing what happened and who is at fault.

 The trucking company’s maintenance and safety records can play a significant role in determining liability. Your lawyer will review the company’s compliance with federal trucking regulations, ensuring that the vehicle was properly maintained and the driver adequately trained.

Determining Liability

Truck accidents are often more complex than car accidents because they may involve multiple parties, each of which may be partially responsible for the accident.

If the driver was negligent—due to distracted driving, speeding, driving under the influence, or fatigue—they could be held responsible for the accident. Your lawyer will examine the driver’s behavior and work records to determine if negligence played a role.

Trucking companies are required to ensure that their vehicles are safe and well-maintained and that drivers follow the regulations. If the trucking company fails to enforce safety policies, improperly loads cargo, or violates regulations, it may be found liable for the accident.

If the accident was caused by a defective truck part (such as faulty brakes or tires), the manufacturer of the defective component could be held liable. Your lawyer will investigate whether any part failure contributed to the crash.

In some cases, third-party maintenance contractors, cargo loaders, or other entities may share responsibility for the accident. Your lawyer will identify all potentially liable parties to ensure the victim receives full compensation.

Dealing With Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are involved in almost every truck accident case, but they are not always on the victim’s side. Their goal is often to minimize payouts, which can leave accident victims with insufficient compensation for their injuries, damages, and losses. Your Perry Hall truck accident lawyer will communicate directly with insurance adjusters, preventing you from being misled or coerced into accepting a lower settlement.

A skilled lawyer can negotiate on your behalf, ensuring you receive compensation for all damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. If an insurance settlement offer is insufficient, your lawyer will push for a higher amount.

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will file a lawsuit and represent you in court.

Call Our Truck Accident Law Firm For Legal Assistance

Truck accident cases are often more complicated than typical car accident cases due to the involvement of large companies, multiple parties, and complex regulations. A Perry Hall truck accident lawyer can provide the expertise needed to navigate these challenges, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Call Parker, Pallet, Slezak & Russell, LLC to schedule a free case evaluation and discover what legal recourse you may have.

Parker, Pallett, Slezak & Russell, LLC.

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Parker, Pallett, Slezak & Russell, LLC

11450 Pulaski Hwy
White Marsh, MD 21162
Toll free: (410) 779-3590