Though commercial vehicles are essential to moving freight around the country, truck drivers and trucking companies do not always ensure the safety of others on the road. Because semi-trucks outweigh passenger vehicles by a great amount, they can cause severe damage to other motor vehicles and their passengers.
If you or somebody you love has suffered a serious injury in a collision with a commercial vehicle, an East Hartford truck accident lawyer could help. While nothing can reverse the effects of such an accident, a compassionate personal injury attorney with knowledge and experience could explain your legal options for recovery. En Español.
Establishing Liability in Truck Wreck Cases
Because trucks travel across state lines, both state and federal laws regulate the trucking industry. An East Hartford truck wreck attorney could help an injured party determine if they have a viable claim based on whether the defendant broke the law or if they acted recklessly.
Some truck accident claims hinge on the concept of negligence. To build a claim based on negligence, a claimant must prove that a duty of care existed between the at-fault driver or trucking company and the plaintiff. Then, the plaintiff must demonstrate that the defendant breached their duty of care, and as a result, caused the accident and the claimant’s losses.
Negligent driving typically involves the violation of a traffic law or behaving in a way that is different from how a reasonable person would have acted under the same circumstances. In terms of a truck accident case, negligent driving may include operating a vehicle while under the influence, distracted or fatigued driving, or speeding. Additionally, a commercial vehicle that is overloaded or improperly maintained may give rise to a negligence claim.
After an accident, an investigation is essential to collecting evidence and therefore proving liability. This may include physical evidence, police reports, and witness statements. A trusted attorney could help an injured claimant establish liability in a truck accident case.
Statute of Limitations
Under state law, a plaintiff generally has two years to bring an action for injuries stemming from a truck accident. If a potential claimant fails to meet the statute of limitations, they may lose their opportunity to collect compensation. It is important to note that this legal deadline may change depending on the specifics of a case. Therefore, an individual should speak with a semi-truck accident attorney in East Hartford to ensure that they meet all legal deadlines applicable to their case.
Retain an East Hartford Truck Accident Attorney
Reaching out to an East Hartford truck accident lawyer could be the key to obtaining financial recourse for the harm you suffered. A legal compensatory award could cover your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and any repair or replacement costs.
Understanding the value of your case and how a lawyer could advocate for your rights is the first step toward seeking monetary recovery. Call an attorney today to discuss the legal options that may be available to you.