Truck drivers are everywhere, and we have them to thank for our way of life as we know it. Though most truck drivers conduct themselves responsibly and professionally, sometimes, truck drivers or their employers are negligent, and people are injured as a result. If this has happened to you, here are some of the questions you may have:
What are the most common causes of truck accidents in Washington D.C.?
Trucks are massive machines, so it is only natural that they can be challenging to operate. Certain hazardous conditions on the road may become even more difficult to maneuver through when you are driving a truck. For example, heavy snow, black ice, or even wet, slippery leaves can cause a trucker to go skidding off the road. Sometimes, poor road conditions, like uneven pavement and massive potholes can cause a flat tire or an accident. However, the most surprising cause of truck accidents is driver negligence.
What are some examples of truck driver negligence?
Truck drivers are behind the wheel for a day longer than some of us are behind the wheel in a week. Therefore, their chances of being fatigued and causing an accident are far higher than someone who does not drive for that extended period of time. However, truck drivers can behave negligently in several ways, including the following:
- Texting and driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Failing to check blind spots
- Speeding
- Disregarding traffic lights and signs
- Unsafely changing lanes
- Ignoring all other rules and regulations of the road
If you were injured in a truck accident, you are most likely now seeking financial compensation. To recover the compensation you need, you must first hire an experienced attorney who will gather evidence to prove that you were injured due to another party’s negligence.
Can a truck employer or owner be held liable for damages?
Fortunately, yes, you may even hold a truck employer accountable for the injuries you have sustained if he or she did any of the following:
- Failed to properly screen, hire, or train employees
- Failed to ensure all trucks are in working condition before sending drivers on runs
- Oversaw an improper or negligent loading of an oversized vehicle
What is the statute of limitations in Washington D.C.?
The statute of limitations in Washington D.C. is three years, which means you will have three years from the date of your accident to file a lawsuit against a negligent party. If you fail to take action at this time, you will lose out on your right to sue.
Contact our experienced Washington D.C. firm
The experienced personal injury and medical malpractice attorneys at Trombly & Singer, PLLC are prepared to represent clients facing legal matters after being injured due to another person’s negligence. If you require strong legal representation in Washington D.C. or Maryland, contact our firm today to schedule a consultation.
