The trucking industry is facing a well-documented driver shortage. In fact, according to Bob Costello, a senior vice president of the American Trucking Association, the shortage could grow to a deficit of 175,000 by 2026 if more people don’t choose to enter the profession.
While initially, a truck driver shortage may not seem like an issue that could affect you, the reality is that fewer qualified truckers can put everyone on the road at risk. Truck demand has not decreased, meaning that fewer drivers are working longer hours, as the well-documented link between trucker fatigue and accidents shows.
Unfortunately, drivers are pressured to keep driving and often drive longer than the federal hours of service regulations authorize. In addition, fewer drivers can put pressure on trucking companies to hire less-qualified (or even unqualified) drivers, increasing the risk of serious accidents that can injure innocent motorists who happen to drive in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Truck Accident Victims Are Often Entitled to Significant Compensation
Maryland law allows people who are injured by the negligence of others to recover compensation for their injuries. The following negligent acts often cause truck accidents:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Hiring unqualified drivers
- Hours of service violations
- Impaired driving
- Traffic violations
- Unsecured or improperly loaded cargo
Truck Accident Victims Should Retain Qualified Legal Counsel
Truck accident cases present many more complicated issues than crashes involving only passenger vehicles. You could potentially hold many more parties liable, including trucking companies and truck manufacturers. In addition, truck accidents often involve violations of federal and state safety regulations, and learning them can require years of study. Because of these potential complications, anyone hurt in a commercial truck accident should retain an attorney familiar with truck accident litigation.
Steps to Take After a Commercial Truck Accident
Protect your rights after a wreck involving a commercial truck by:
- Writing down details about the accident and taking pictures of the aftermath. Make sure you document the name of the company responsible for the operation of the truck and try to obtain contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident.
- Undergoing a thorough medical evaluation, even if you do not think you are seriously injured. In addition, keep detailed notes about the way your injuries hurt you on a daily basis. You will need documentation for any insurance claim that you may make.
- Not accepting a settlement offer from anyone before speaking to an attorney. You only get one chance to settle a case, so any settlement you accept must adequately compensate you for your losses.
- Calling a lawyer as soon as you can. Any delay could hurt your chances of recovering compensation.
Injured in a Truck Accident? Call Alpert Schreyer Injury Accident Lawyers, Today to Schedule a Free Case Evaluation
At Alpert Schreyer Injury Accident Lawyers, we are committed to helping motor vehicle accident victims recover compensation for their injuries. To schedule a free case evaluation with a Maryland truck accident lawyer, call our office today at 301-381-2655 or contact us online.