Our compassionate and knowledgeable legal team at Mooney Law is here to help with everything from understanding trucking laws to getting fair compensation for your injuries.
Regulations Affecting Truck Accidents
Truck drivers and trucking companies must follow strict federal and state rules to keep everyone safe. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets national standards for trucking, including limits on how many hours a driver can work without taking a break. Maryland also has its own set of laws to ensure safe truck operations. These rules cover everything from maintenance checks to weight limits.
In truck accident cases, it’s essential to understand these laws because they play a big part in determining who is at fault. Our top-rated truck accident lawyer in Maryland has deep knowledge of FMCSA standards and Maryland state laws, so we can quickly spot any violations that may help your case.
By working with a truck accident attorney in Maryland, you’ll have a team that understands how these regulations can impact your recovery.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Maryland
Truck accidents happen for many reasons, but some causes are especially common. One of the biggest issues is driver fatigue—truck drivers often work long hours and can get tired, which affects their reaction time and judgment. Mechanical failures, like brake problems or tire blowouts, are also frequent causes. Sometimes, improper loading of cargo can make the truck harder to control.
Trucking companies sometimes cut corners by skipping essential maintenance or putting pressure on drivers to drive longer hours. When trucking companies ignore safety measures, they increase the risk of accidents. Knowing the cause of your accident is crucial because it can help build a strong case for compensation. At Mooney Law, we investigate every detail to find out what really happened and who should be held responsible.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident?
Truck accidents are different from regular car accidents because there may be multiple people or companies responsible. Some of the possible defendants include:
The Driver
If the truck driver was speeding, distracted, or driving under the influence, they might be held responsible. Driver error is a common factor in truck accidents, and negligence in adhering to safety protocols can increase liability.
The Trucking Company
If the company pressured the driver to skip breaks, exceeded legal driving hours, or ignored necessary truck maintenance, they could be liable. Companies are responsible for ensuring their drivers follow federal regulations and that their vehicles are in safe working condition.
Maintenance Providers
If a third-party company performed poor maintenance or overlooked critical repairs, they may share the blame. Proper upkeep is crucial for large vehicles, and lapses can lead to serious, avoidable accidents.
Manufacturers
If faulty parts, such as brakes or tires, contributed to the accident, the parts manufacturer could also be partially liable. Defective components can fail unexpectedly, causing loss of control and increasing the likelihood of collisions.
Determining who is liable can be complex, but Mooney Law handles this process by thoroughly investigating the accident. Our goal is to find every responsible party to maximize your potential compensation.
Evidence Collection and Case Building: Our Strategic Approach
Building a strong case means gathering as much evidence as possible. In truck accidents, evidence is especially important, and some types are unique to these cases. For instance, trucks are often equipped with a “black box” that records data like speed, braking, and even the driver’s hours on the road. Maintenance records and witness statements are also valuable for understanding what happened.
At Mooney Law, we know where to look for evidence and how to use it effectively. Our Maryland auto accident lawyers work hard to ensure that nothing crucial gets missed. A solid, evidence-based case can improve your chances of a successful outcome, so we focus on collecting and preserving every detail.
Types of Compensation Available in Truck Accident Cases
After a truck accident, you may be entitled to several types of compensation. This includes:
- Medical Expenses: Covering any resulting medical costs, vehicle repair expenses, and more.
- Lost Wages: Compensating for income lost due to time away from work.
- Pain and Suffering: Recognizing the emotional and physical impact of the accident.
If the trucking company or driver acted with extreme carelessness, you may also be eligible for punitive damages. These are designed to punish the wrongdoer and can increase your total compensation. Our Maryland truck accident lawyers work to ensure that you pursue fair compensation for all of your losses.
Insurance Companies and Trucking Accidents
Insurance companies often work to minimize payouts, and they have tactics specifically designed to make you accept less money. For instance, they may question the severity of your injuries or argue that you’re partly at fault. Our team at Mooney Law knows these tactics and won’t let insurance companies push you around.
Our truck wreck attorney near me has a history of successfully negotiating with insurers. In some past cases, our team has managed to secure much higher payouts for our clients by standing firm and showing the evidence we’ve gathered. As a no-win, no-fee truck accident lawyer in Maryland, we’re committed to fighting for your best interests.
The Benefits of Hiring a Maryland Truck Accident Lawyer at Mooney Law
Hiring a Maryland truck accident lawyer can make a significant difference in your case. Our firm has experience with these types of cases and understands the resources needed to go up against powerful trucking companies. Past clients have praised our commitment and ability to secure positive outcomes, often helping them move forward with confidence.
When you choose Mooney Law, you’re choosing a team that will stand by you and work hard to get you the compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Truck Accident Cases
- What if I was partially at fault? Maryland has strict laws about fault, but our team will assess your case to see if you can still seek compensation.
- How long will my case take? This depends on various factors. We’ll keep you informed of any updates.
- What should I avoid after a truck accident? It’s best to avoid discussing your case with the insurance company before consulting a lawyer. They may try to use your words against you.
Our Maryland auto accident lawyers are here to answer all your questions and guide you in the right direction.
How Mooney Law Prepares for Court
If your case goes to court, Mooney Law is fully prepared. We know that trucking companies have their lawyers, often backed by large insurance companies. To level the playing field, we prepare every case thoroughly and anticipate the arguments these companies might make.
Our trial experience helps us position clients for success. We’re ready to represent you in court and to work tirelessly to achieve a fair outcome.
Protect Your Rights with Our Maryland Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accidents can turn your life upside down, but you don’t have to face it alone. Mooney Law has the experience, dedication, and resources to support you through every step of the process. Our team is committed to ensuring you’re treated fairly and get the compensation you need to recover.
If you’ve been in a truck accident, don’t wait to contact Maryland’s best truck accident lawyer. Time is important; acting quickly can improve your chances of a successful case. Contact our team at Mooney Law today for a free consultation. Let us be the team that helps you get back on track.