For the amount of damage and devastating injuries they cause, you might be surprised to learn that truck accidents comprise just a small number of the total crashes in Maryland every year. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reports that there is an average of 4,000 crashes annually involving 18-wheelers, semis, and other large commercial vehicles. This figure represents around 3 percent of the total traffic collisions in Maryland. Despite the low frequency, truck accidents lead to fatalities and catastrophic injuries.
The potential for serious harm to victims is due, in part, to the size and weight of a commercial vehicle. However, truck drivers are also to blame when they engage in negligent acts, such as failing to comply with Maryland traffic regulations. You will need assistance from a Baltimore County truck accidents attorney if you were hurt because traffic violations by truck operators are extremely destructive.
Dangers of Traffic Violations by Truck Drivers
Any motorist could be careless about traffic regulations, but the risks are magnified when a truck driver is behind the wheel of a massive commercial vehicle. Some examples of traffic violations by truck operators include:
Speeding: Trucks are extremely heavy and even more so when loaded with a trailer full of cargo. They take longer to slow and stop, so speeding enhances the threat of collisions.
Drunk and Drugged Driving: Safe operation of such a massive vehicle requires meticulous attention to traffic, road conditions, the truck’s systems, weather, and many other favors. Alcohol and drugs affect physical and mental capabilities.
Erratic Turns: Truck drivers must take extra precautions when making turns and changing lanes. Since they are hauling a long trailer with heavy cargo. Careless maneuvers could cause items to be tossed from the trailer. It is possible for the truck to jack-knife or tip over.
Complicated Truck Accident Claims
Traffic violations and careless driving by truck operators put you at significant risk of harm. Enforcing your rights is critical. The legal process is more complex with truck collisions for various reasons. For instance:
- Insurance coverage amounts range into the millions of dollars, so insurers will strive to minimize the payment to you. The companies assign your claim to their best agents, who will find reasons to deny your claim.
- There are usually multiple parties that you must pursue with a truck crash case. Including the driver’s employer, a truck company, a fleet owner, and logistics companies.
- Maryland has a statutory cap on certain damages. You must fight to ensure you recover every penny from the negligent truck driver.
A Maryland Truck Accidents Lawyer Will Assist with Your Claim You can see that the process for recovering compensation is complicated. Trust an experienced legal professional for assistance with a truck crash case. To learn how our team can help, please contact Attorney Michael A. Freedman. You can schedule a free consultation at our offices in Owings Mills or Glen Burnie by calling 410.363.6848 or visiting our website. After learning more about your circumstances, a truck accident lawyer will advise you.
