Cloverly Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accidents can stem from several forms of negligence such as driver error, inadequate vehicle maintenance, and violations of trucking regulations. Driver error, such as speeding, distracted driving, or fatigue, can impair a truck driver’s ability to safely operate the vehicle and respond to changing traffic conditions. Inadequate vehicle maintenance, such as faulty brakes or worn tires, can contribute to mechanical failures that also increase the risk of accidents on the roadways. Furthermore, violations of trucking regulations, such as exceeding hours of service limits or improperly securing cargo, can create hazardous conditions that endanger the safety of other motorists.
In the aftermath of your truck accident in Cloverly, our legal professionals can investigate the crash to assess fault. Afterwards, we can begin building your case and fighting for the full extent of payment you deserve.
Seek assistance from our truck accident lawyers at Rice, Murtha & Psoras today by dialing (410) 694-7291.
Common Types of Vehicles Involved in Cloverly, MD Truck Accidents
There are many different categories of trucks that may be involved in harmful crashes. For victims, the type of trucks that they collided with may impact the legal strategies used in their cases. Fortunately, our experienced truck accident attorneys can identify the appropriate course of action after any crash, regardless of the types of vehicles involved.
Semi-Trailer Trucks
Semi-trailer trucks, also known as tractor-trailers or 18-wheelers, are frequently involved in harmful accidents due to their size, weight, and potential for carrying large loads. These trucks consist of a tractor unit that pulls a trailer, making them longer and heavier than standard vehicles and posing increased risks on the roadways. Semi-trailer trucks are commonly used for long-distance transportation of goods and materials, making them prevalent on highways and interstates where high speeds and congested traffic conditions can contribute to accidents with severe consequences.
Dump Trucks
Dump trucks are another common type of truck involved in harmful accidents, particularly in construction zones, industrial areas, or urban environments. These trucks are designed to transport loose materials such as gravel, sand, or construction debris and often operate in confined spaces or areas with limited visibility. Dump trucks can pose hazards to other vehicles on the road due to their size, weight, and potential for tipping over or spilling their cargo, leading to accidents with significant property damage and injuries to drivers and passengers.
Delivery Trucks
Delivery trucks, including box trucks, parcel vans, and delivery vans, are frequently involved in harmful accidents while navigating urban streets, residential neighborhoods, and commercial areas. These trucks are used for transporting goods and packages to businesses and residences, often making frequent stops and maneuvers in congested traffic conditions. Delivery trucks may encounter challenges such as narrow streets, tight turns, and limited parking spaces, increasing the risk of accidents with pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists. Crashes with delivery trucks can result in injuries to drivers, passengers, and pedestrians, as well as property damage to vehicles and structures along the route.
Flatbed Trucks
Flatbed trucks are commonly involved in harmful accidents due to their unique design, which features a flat, open trailer bed for transporting oversized or irregularly shaped cargo. These trucks are often used in industries such as construction, landscaping, and transportation of large equipment or machinery. Flatbed trucks present challenges for securing and transporting cargo safely, as well as for maneuvering in traffic and adverse weather conditions. Flatbed truck accidents regularly occur because of shifting cargo, improper loading or securing procedures, or driver error, resulting in collisions and potential injuries to other motorists on the roadways.
Tanker Trucks
Tanker trucks, also known as tank trucks or liquid transporters, are involved in harmful accidents while transporting hazardous materials, liquids, or gases. These trucks feature specialized tanks or containers designed to hold and transport various substances, including fuel, chemicals, or industrial gases. Tanker trucks pose unique risks on the roadways due to the potential for leaks, spills, or explosions in the event of a collision or equipment failure. Accidents involving tanker trucks can have serious environmental consequences, as well as pose immediate dangers to nearby motorists, pedestrians, and communities.
Tow Trucks
Tow trucks, used for towing disabled or illegally parked vehicles, are occasionally involved in harmful accidents while operating on highways, city streets, or accident scenes. These trucks are equipped with specialized towing equipment, including winches, hooks, and flatbeds, to transport vehicles safely and efficiently. Unfortunately, accidents involving tow trucks can occur as the result of factors such as improper towing techniques, equipment malfunctions, and driver negligence.
Improper Cargo Storage on Trucks in Cloverly, MD
Improper cargo storage practices pose significant dangers on the roadways because of the potential for cargo to shift, spill, or become dislodged during transportation.
When cargo is not properly secured or loaded onto a truck, it can create unstable conditions that increase the risk of accidents and collisions. Shifting cargo can affect the balance and stability of the truck, leading to loss of control, rollover accidents, or jackknife incidents.
Additionally, spilled cargo can create hazardous conditions for other motorists, including obstacles on the road, slippery surfaces, or airborne debris. Improper cargo storage practices not only endanger the safety of the truck driver and passengers but also pose threats to the lives and property of other drivers, pedestrians, and communities along the route. Therefore, adherence to proper cargo loading and securing procedures is essential to prevent accidents, injuries, and fatalities on the roadways.
Tie Downs and Their Relation to Trucking Accidents in Cloverly, MD
Tie downs are devices used to secure cargo onto trucks, trailers, or other vehicles during transportation. These devices typically consist of straps, chains, cables, or ropes, along with fasteners or hooks, that are used to hold cargo in place and prevent it from shifting or falling off the vehicle during transit.
Properly securing cargo with tie downs is essential for maintaining stability and safety on the roadways. When tie downs are defective or improperly implemented, devastating truck accidents can occur.
The improper use of tie downs can involve misconduct such as using incorrect tension or improperly positioning the tie downs. Furthermore, tie downs may fail because they were poorly designed, manufactured, or marketed. Ensuring the proper selection, installation, and use of tie downs is crucial for preventing accidents and maintaining safety during transportation.
Call Our Attorneys for Help After a Truck Accident in Cloverly, MD
Get support from our experienced truck accident attorneys today by calling Rice, Murtha & Psoras at (410) 694-7291.