Cumberland, MD Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accidents inflict severe harm on individuals and property because of the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. Collisions involving trucks often result in catastrophic injuries for occupants of smaller vehicles, including fractures, spinal injuries, and traumatic brain damage. Similarly, pedestrians who are struck by large trucks regularly sustain serious and potentially fatal injuries.

Thankfully, if you are hurt because of a truck accident in Cumberland, then you may be entitled to monetary damages. Our legal professionals can assess your potential claim and guide you on the path to compensation. We will work diligently to recover the full range of payment you are owed.

Seek help from our experienced truck accident lawyers by calling Rice, Murtha & Psoras at (410) 694-7291.

Common Sources of Truck Accidents in Cumberland, MD

There are several types of negligent behavior that can cause harmful truck accidents in Cumberland. If your crash stems from any of the following, then our truck accident attorneys will evaluate your potential claim for compensation:

Improper Cargo Storage

Improper cargo storage is a significant factor contributing to truck accidents. When cargo is not secured correctly, it can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unbalanced. This imbalance may lead to loss of control, rollovers, or collisions with other vehicles on the road.

Speeding

Speeding is a common cause of truck accidents. Trucks traveling at excessive speeds have longer stopping distances and reduced maneuverability. Speeding not only increases the severity of collisions but also makes it challenging for truck drivers to react promptly to sudden changes in traffic conditions.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a serious form of negligence that can result in truck accidents. Distractions such as phone use, eating, or adjusting in-cab devices divert a driver’s attention from the road. This lack of focus significantly increases the risk of accidents and endangers the safety of other motorists.

Improper Vehicle Maintenance

Truck accidents often occur because of inadequate vehicle maintenance. Failure to inspect and maintain crucial components, such as brakes and tires, can lead to mechanical failures on the road. These failures pose a substantial threat to the safety of both the truck driver and others sharing the roadway.

Drunk Driving

Truck accidents caused by drunk driving are particularly hazardous. When truck drivers operate their vehicles under the influence of alcohol, their judgment, coordination, and reaction times are impaired, elevating the likelihood of severe accidents with catastrophic consequences.

Tired Driving

Fatigue impairs a truck driver’s ability to stay alert and make quick, informed decisions. Tired driving is a major factor in accidents involving commercial trucks. Long hours on the road, irregular schedules, and pressure to meet tight deadlines contribute to driver fatigue, putting everyone on the road at risk.

Defective Vehicle Parts

Accidents can occur because of defects in truck components. Malfunctions in critical parts, such as brakes or steering systems, can lead to loss of control and result in accidents. Manufacturers, suppliers, and maintenance personnel play crucial roles in preventing such incidents.

Failing to Adjust for Weather Conditions

Neglecting to adjust driving behavior according to weather conditions is a form of negligence. Adverse weather, such as rain, snow, or fog, requires truck drivers to modify their speed and increase following distances. Failure to do so can lead to accidents caused by reduced visibility and slippery road surfaces.

Improper Lane Changes

Truck accidents frequently occur because of improper lane changes. Failing to signal, not checking blind spots, or cutting off other vehicles can result in collisions. Truck drivers must exercise caution when changing lanes to prevent these avoidable incidents.

Illegal Left Turns

Illegal left turns by truck drivers are a dangerous behavior that often leads to accidents. Failing to adhere to traffic regulations increases the risk of collisions with oncoming vehicles, posing a significant threat to the safety of both the truck driver and other road users.

Ignoring Traffic Signals

Disregarding traffic signals is a blatant form of negligence that contributes to truck accidents. Running red lights or failing to yield the right of way at intersections can lead to devastating collisions. Truck drivers must adhere to traffic signals to maintain the safety and order of the roadways.

Steps to Take After Suffering a Truck Accident in Cumberland, MD

The aftermath of your truck accident may be highly chaotic. Still, there are certain steps you may take to improve your recovery and enhance your chances of recovering compensation from another party.

Stay at the Scene and Call 911

After suffering a truck accident, it is crucial to remain at the scene and immediately call 911. Staying in place ensures the safety of everyone involved and prompts prompt assistance from emergency services. Reporting the incident to law enforcement is essential for creating an official record of the accident.

Exchange Information with Other Parties

Exchange relevant information with other parties involved in the truck accident. Obtain details such as names, contact information, insurance details, and vehicle registration numbers. This information will be vital for filing insurance claims and facilitating communication between the parties involved.

Document the Scene

Thoroughly document the scene of the truck accident. Take photographs of the vehicles, their positions, and any visible damages. Additionally, capture images of relevant road signs, traffic signals, and environmental conditions. Such documentation can serve as valuable evidence later in the claims process.

Seek Medical Attention

Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries appear minor. Some injuries may not manifest symptoms immediately, and prompt medical evaluation can help identify and address potential issues. Medical records also play a crucial role in establishing the extent of injuries when pursuing compensation.

Call Our Lawyers

Contacting our legal team may be a critical step in protecting your rights and navigating the complexities of the legal process. Our lawyers can provide guidance on insurance claims, help gather evidence, and advocate for fair compensation. Time is of the essence in legal matters, so reaching out to our firm promptly can be essential for building a strong case.

Contact Our Law Firm for Assistance with Your Truck Accident Case in Cumberland, MD

Get help from our experienced truck accident lawyers at Rice, Murtha & Psoras by dialing (410) 694-7291.