Fighting For You After A Commercial Vehicle Accident In New Jersey
From delivery vans to 18-wheelers, commercial vehicles often weigh far more than passenger vehicles. When they cause a collision, their size can mean devastating injuries for the passengers in smaller vehicles. After an accident involving a commercial vehicle, the victims need to be ready to fight for the compensation they deserve.
At Benjamin M. Del Vento, P.A., we know what you are up against in your case. At our law office in Livingston, New Jersey, our team of commercial vehicle accident lawyers use decades of experience to help clients throughout New Jersey with their injury claims, and we are prepared to fight against the unique challenges in your commercial vehicle accident.
What Makes Commercial Vehicle Accidents Unique?
In a typical car accident, the only involved parties are the drivers and passengers in the accident, their insurance companies and their attorneys. Often, these claims can go relatively smoothly. In commercial vehicle accidents, things can be much more complicated.
When a commercial vehicle driver hits you while they are working, their employer and the company’s insurance company and legal team often get involved. These groups may fight much harder to avoid providing you with the compensation you deserve, but we are not afraid of a fight.
Our commercial vehicle accident lawyers take the time to review your case and determine who may be ultimately liable for your injuries. The common liable grounds include the driver for reckless actions, the employer for knowingly hiring a reckless driver or failing to train them properly, or even a parts manufacturer for selling the defective auto part that caused the accident. No matter how challenging your case may be, you can count on us to do what is necessary to reach the outcome you deserve.
Common Injuries Associated With Commercial Trucks
Commercial vehicles’ sheer size and weight significantly increase the risk of severe injuries in a collision, leading to the following common injuries:
● Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): These often occur due to sudden impact or violent shaking during a collision and can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage.
● Spinal cord injuries: High-impact crashes frequently result in spinal injuries, which may lead to partial or complete paralysis.
● Fractures and broken bones: The intense force of a commercial vehicle accident often leads to broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs and ribs.
● Internal injuries: The impact can cause damage to organs such as the liver, spleen and lungs.
● Burns: Collisions involving commercial trucks may result in fuel spills or fires, causing severe burns that can lead to disfigurement and extensive recovery times.
Each of these injuries brings a heavy financial burden, with costly long-term care, surgeries and rehabilitation disrupting lives for years. Under the law, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. As such, you can take the first step toward obtaining fair compensation by seeking our legal assistance.
Common Ways Serious Commercial Vehicle Accidents Happen
Having precise knowledge of how commercial truck accidents occur can shed light on potential negligence and liability. These accidents often result from:
● Driver fatigue: Long hours and tight delivery schedules frequently lead to drowsy driving, which impairs reaction times and decision-making.
● Distracted driving: Truck drivers using phones, eating or engaging in other distractions can easily cause catastrophic accidents.
● Improperly secured cargo: When cargo is not adequately secured, it can shift during transport, causing the truck to lose balance or spill cargo onto the roadway.
● Vehicle maintenance failures: Poorly maintained brakes, tires or other essential components can lead to mechanical failures, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
● Reckless driving: Speeding, tailgating and failure to yield are common aggressive driving behaviors that contribute to collisions.
No matter the factor that played a role in your accident, our team will work diligently to gather evidence and build a strong case for your compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions On Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Understanding your legal rights and options can help you obtain compensation and justice if you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident. Below are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions regarding truck accident claims.
What is the statute of limitations for New Jersey truck accidents?
In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including truck accidents, is two years from the accident date. If the accident resulted in a wrongful death, the two-year deadline begins from the date of the victim’s passing. Failing to file within this timeframe may result in the loss of the right to seek compensation.
How is fault determined in a truck accident?
Fault in a truck accident is established through evidence like police reports, eyewitness testimony, accident reconstruction and electronic logging device (ELD) data from the truck. New Jersey follows a modified comparative negligence law. This allows you to recover damages if you are less than 50% at fault, but your share of fault will reduce your compensation.
Who can be held liable in a truck accident claim?
Liability for a truck accident can extend beyond the driver. Other potentially responsible parties include the trucking company, truck or vehicle part manufacturer, maintenance provider or cargo loaders if improper loading contributed to the crash.
Identifying all liable parties is essential for maximizing compensation.
How much is my truck accident case worth?
The value of a truck accident case depends on several factors, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the severity of injuries.
If negligence was particularly egregious, punitive damages may also apply. Since every case is unique, consulting an attorney can help assess the potential value of your claim.
Why do I need a truck accident lawyer?
Truck accident claims involve complex regulations, powerful insurance companies and multiple liable parties.
A lawyer can gather crucial evidence, negotiate with insurers and, if necessary, represent you in court to pursue the maximum compensation you deserve. Having legal representation can make a difference in the outcome of your case.
Do Not Pursue Your Compensation Alone
If you or a loved one was hurt by a commercial vehicle, make sure you arm yourself with a skilled personal injury attorney. Call our Livingston, New Jersey, law office at 973-869-5325 or email us here to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward getting the compensation you need.