Commercial trucks help support the Maryland economy, transporting goods up and down the Eastern Seaboard and coast to coast. However, the number of big rigs on Bethesda’s roads and highways can increase the likelihood of a traffic collision. The consequences of a truck accident may include catastrophic damage and life-altering injuries, leading to severe physical, financial, and economic turmoil in victims’ lives.
At Marks & Harrison, our experienced Bethesda truck accident attorneys understand how much pain, anxiety, and uncertainty you may face in the aftermath of an accident. If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, our skilled team can help you seek significant compensation for your losses. Contact us today for a free consultation with a truck accident lawyer in Bethesda, Maryland.
What Causes Truck Accidents in Bethesda, MD?
There are many contributing factors that may lead to truck accidents in Bethesda.
Some of the most common causes of truck accidents in Bethesda include:
- Driver fatigue – Long hours on the road may cause drowsy driving.
- Distracted driving – Phone use or other distractions are particularly dangerous while operating a large vehicle.
- Speeding – Since trucks require more time to slow down or stop, speeding increases the risk of a collision if traffic changes suddenly.
- Poor maintenance – Neglecting regular inspections and repairs can cause mechanical failures that may cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle.
- Improper loading – Unbalanced or unsecured cargo can affect truck stability.
Trucking companies and drivers must follow strict regulations to prevent these issues. Failure to do so may lead to accidents on the road that put other drivers and pedestrians at risk. Contact our Bethesda truck accident lawyer today.
What Are the Differences Between Truck Accidents and Car Accidents?
Truck accidents differ from passenger car accidents in many ways. Some of the most significant factors differentiating truck accidents and crashes involving only passenger cars include:
Size Differences
While the average passenger car weighs about 2 tons, a fully loaded 18-wheeler can weigh about 40 tons (80,000 pounds). As a result, occupants of smaller vehicles are subjected to tremendous force on impact with a large commercial truck. Even at slower speeds, truck accident victims can sustain catastrophic and even life-threatening injuries due to the power of these crashes.
Involvement of Commercial Entities
If a truck driver’s negligent or reckless behavior causes an accident, their employer may also bear liability for the consequences. In cases where a faulty truck part or system caused the accident, the manufacturer could be liable. Claims against large commercial entities can be challenging, especially since many of them hire high-powered insurance companies and law firms to protect them. An experienced and assertive personal injury attorney can help you defend your rights against these major companies.
Potential for More Substantial Compensation
Truck accidents often result in more severe injuries and property damage. Trucking company insurance policies also have larger limits than those required for personal vehicles. Because of this, victims may be entitled to recover more significant financial awards. However, insurance companies will try to reduce the amount they must pay. Some may even resort to dishonest methods if they think they can get away with it. A skilled attorney can help protect you from these practices to ensure you pursue fair compensation that covers the full extent of your losses.
What Types of Injuries Happen in a Bethesda Truck Accident?
Common injuries from truck accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries (some of which may cause paralysis)
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Severe burns
- Amputations
These injuries can lead to long-term disability, significant medical expenses, and a lower quality of life. You must seek prompt medical attention to maximize your chance of both physical and financial recovery. A personal injury attorney can evaluate the potential value of your case so you don’t undervalue your potential financial recovery. Our Bethesda truck accident attorney can help.
How Do I Prove Who Is At Fault for the Truck Accident?
Thorough investigation and evidence gathering can help prove who is at fault in a truck accident. Key steps include:
- Obtaining police reports
- Collecting eyewitness statements
- Analyzing truck driver logs and maintenance records
- Reviewing traffic camera footage
- Examining the accident scene and vehicle damage
- Consulting with accident reconstruction experts
At Marks & Harrison, we have the resources and skills to conduct comprehensive investigations and hold all responsible parties accountable for their negligence.
Who Can I Sue for My Injuries and Damages?
Unlike passenger car collisions, which most often involve independent individuals, multiple parties may share fault in a truck accident. These parties may include:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The truck’s manufacturer
- Truck mechanics or the maintenance company
- The loading company
Claims involving multiple liable parties are more complicated and require a legal professional’s assistance. However, a successful truck accident claim against more than one at-fault party can help you seek the full amount you deserve. If one party’s insurance policy does not cover the extent of your losses, another party’s policy may make up the difference.
What Compensation Can I Seek for My Damages?
You may be entitled to compensation for crash-related losses such as:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Our experienced truck accident attorneys will work diligently to assess the full extent of your losses and fight for a fair financial recovery.
Does Maryland Have a Statute of Limitations for Filing a Truck Accident Lawsuit?
Maryland has a statute of limitations for filing truck accident lawsuits. In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
It is crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after your accident. This allows us to investigate your case, preserve evidence, and build a strong claim before the statute of limitations expires. You may lose your right to seek compensation if you wait too long to take legal action. Contact our Bethesda personal injury attorney now.
Contact a Bethesda Truck Accident Lawyer
The compassionate and knowledgeable truck accident attorneys at Marks & Harrison have fought to protect injured individuals since 1911. If you were hurt in a truck accident in Bethesda, our team is ready to help you seek the compensation you deserve to secure a brighter future. Contact us today for a free consultation.
