Commercial trucks and 18-wheelers are important parts of our supply chains, but they pose certain risks on the road. If such a vehicle were to crash, many other drivers and passengers could be seriously injured. If that happens, you should hire a lawyer to help you as soon as possible.
Commercial trucks come in all shapes and sizes. The type of truck involved in your accident may determine the extent of your injuries. For example, large 18-wheelers may cause a highway disaster. Even smaller delivery trucks and other commercial vehicles can cause serious damage. Not only can we sue the negligent operators of these trucks, but also the companies that hired them.
Talk to our truck accident lawyers at Agrapidis & Maroules, P.C. about your case in a free legal review by calling our offices at (201) 777-1111.
What Kind of Truck Accidents Can I Sue for in Irvington?
Truck accidents may occur in a number of ways for all kinds of reasons. Our truck accident lawyers can help you get to the bottom of how your accident happened, which may help them find evidence and determine who should be held accountable.
18-Wheeler Collisions
Many truck accidents involve 18-wheelers. Although these rigs are common on highways, they can be difficult to control and dangerous if truckers lose control. The trailer may topple if the cargo is loaded improperly or unbalanced. Overly sharp turns are extremely dangerous, too. If the trucker is speeding, the rig may be unable to stop in time to avoid a crash.
Other Commercial Trucks
Many other commercial trucks are not considered 18-wheelers but may still be just as dangerous. Towing trucks, flatbeds, and trucks hauling oversized cargo may be extremely dangerous in an accident. The truck’s size, weight, and overall design may determine how the driver should operate it.
Large Delivery Trucks
Some trucks are delivery vehicles. They may be quite large and full of boxes, packages, and other cargo. They might be making regular stops to drop off deliveries, and drivers must be aware of their surroundings. Cargo may become unsecured, causing the driver to crash. Large delivery vehicles often have large blind spots, making it difficult to see if other drivers are next to the truck.
FAQs About Legal Claims for Commercial Truck Accidents
What Should I Do if I am Hurt in an 18-Wheeler Accident in Irvington?
Your main focus should be on getting urgent medical attention. Even if you do not believe your injuries are serious, you must go to a hospital to be evaluated by a doctor immediately. Call 911 and have emergency medical responders sent to the accident. You may need to go to the hospital by ambulance.
Are Commercial Truck Crashes Covered by Auto Insurance?
Yes. After a truck accident, New Jersey drivers may file insurance claims with their own personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. This is no-fault coverage, and you do not have to prove how the trucker caused the accident. If this coverage is not enough, you can file a claim with the trucker’s liability coverage, but you must prove fault.
Who is to Blame for a Truck Accident in Irvington?
In many cases, truck drivers are primarily responsible for causing accidents. They often fall asleep at the wheel, become distracted, or lack the experience needed to operate such a large vehicle. Often, the negligent trucker’s employer may also be held accountable and included in personal injury lawsuits.
How Much Compensation Should I Get After a Truck Accident?
The compensation you may receive depends on the extent of your injuries and damages. Generally, the more serious your injuries are, the greater your compensation should be. Hospital bills, property damage, lost wages, pain, distress, and suffering are just a few common examples of damages. Many victims claim damages of over six figures, though your specific claims may differ.
What if Other People Are Injured in the Same Truck Accident as Me?
Other injured victims may file their own claims against the trucker and the trucking company. They may likely file their own personal injury lawsuits. If this happens, the court may consolidate all the cases, including yours, to make legal proceedings more efficient. Even so, your claim should remain separate, and the outcome of your case may not necessarily be tied to the outcomes of the others.
Can I File a Personal Injury Lawsuit After a Commercial Truck Collision in Irvington?
Yes, but you may need to meet specific legal requirements first. In New Jersey, drivers must choose a limited or unlimited right to sue when they but auto insurance. If you have a limited right to sue, you may file a lawsuit for the accident only if you can prove you experienced certain permanent injuries. If you have an unlimited right to sue, you may file your lawsuit freely.
When Should I Start Preparing a Lawsuit for a Truck Crash?
You should talk to a lawyer about beginning your lawsuit as soon as possible. The New Jersey statute of limitations for personal injury claims allows plaintiffs only 2 years to file their cases in court. Considering you also need to exhaust your numerous insurance options first, it is best to get started as soon as possible.
How Much Evidence Do I Need for a Truck Accident Lawsuit?
To prove your claims in a lawsuit, we need enough evidence to meet our burden of proof, which is a “preponderance of the evidence.” Essentially, we must prove it is more likely than not that the defendant’s negligence caused the accident. Photos from the accident, surveillance videos, witness testimony, and trucking company records may help us.
How Do I Get a Good Settlement for a Commercial Truck Accident?
Getting a good settlement requires negotiation. If the defendant offers a settlement, do not accept it without reviewing it with your lawyer, especially if it is the first offer. Strong evidence of your damages and the defendant’s negligence will help you get a better settlement.
Can I Sue for a Truck Accident if I am Somewhat Responsible for Causing It?
Yes. New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence law, under which plaintiffs may still recover damages even if they are partially responsible, up to a certain point. Your damages are reduced in proportion to your fault, but if you are more than 50% responsible, you may not recover any damages.
Ask Our Truck Accident Lawyers for Legal Help if You Were Injured in a Crash
Speak to our truck accident attorneys at Agrapidis & Maroules, P.C. about your claims in a free legal review by calling our offices at (201) 777-1111.