The thought of being involved in an accident with a commercial vehicle is an extremely frightening one. But, unfortunately for many, it is a reality. If you have recently sustained an injury in a truck accident, you are most likely now seeking financial compensation for injuries and pain and suffering. Continue reading and speak with our Maryland personal injury attorney to learn more about truck accidents and how our firm can help if you have been hurt in one.
How do I know who is responsible for a truck accident?
Truck accidents are often particularly complicated, as many parties are involved in maintaining, loading, and driving the vehicles. There are four primary parties that may be liable for a truck accident. They are as follows:
- The truck driver: This is the most obvious. Truck drivers are often fatigued from driving long hours, which drastically increases the chances of an accident occurring. They also may drive while under the influence, fail to check large blind spots, fail to brake on time, speed, or otherwise ignore the rules and regulations of the road.
- Truck company employers: Truck company employers are required to ensure all truckers are sufficiently trained and licensed before hiring them for the job. If they fail to do so, they may share some responsibility for the accident. Additionally, if they overwork their drivers in violation of the law, they may also be partially responsible for an accident.
- Negligent truck company employees: When truck employees fail to maintain the trucks regularly, something can go wrong and cause an accident. Additionally, when employees improperly load trucks, it can cause the truck to become unbalanced and increase the chances of it toppling over.
- Negligent truck part manufacturers/designers: When product manufacturers/designers do not take safety into account and someone sustains an injury as a result of an unsafe product design or an unsafe condition brought about by a negligent manufacturer, the injured party may have a valid product liability claim.
What is the statute of limitations for truck accident claims in Maryland?
The statute of limitations is the timeframe in which accident victims will have to take legal action against the party responsible for their injuries. Failing to take legal action within this timeframe will result in you losing your right to financial compensation. The statute of limitations for truck accident claims in Maryland is three years, giving you three years from the date of your accident to sue the liable party for your injuries. Our firm is ready to assist you today–do not delay.
Contact our experienced Maryland firm
The Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz has decades of experience representing clients in Anne Arundel County and Howard County, Maryland who need legal assistance for criminal defense or personal injury matters. Contact the Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz today to discuss your case.