A fully-loaded big-rig truck weighs nearly 100,000 pounds. That is why collisions between cars and big-rigs are so dangerous. In fact, the latest statistics show there are some 5,000 fatalities a year involving accidents with commercial trucks. Weight is not the only dangerous factor in these accidents. Frequently, tanker trucks haul substances that are flammable. As a result, any accident could result in fatalities. Contact a lawyer if you or a loved one are injured in a car-big-rig collision.
A Truck Accident Lawyer in New London CT helps clients with these claims. The lawyer knows the importance of proving liability. Driver error is the major cause of these collisions. According to government statistics, a trucker is ten times more likely to be the cause of an accident than other things. Driver error can be blamed on a lack of focus or unfamiliarity with the road. Another major cause of accidents is equipment failure. Certainly, if a big-rig loses its brakes, anyone in the way will get hurt. Likewise, any nearby car could be in trouble if a rig has a blow-out.
Having a lawyer is critical to collecting damages. That is because more than one party may be at fault. A Truck Accident Lawyer in New London knows how to collect all possible damages. A shipper could be liable if the trucker picked up the load at the dock. Further, this is important if the accident involved improper loading. In addition, the truckers’ employer can be liable for driver error and defective equipment.
Carriers are legally obligated to maintain their trucks on a regular basis. Many unscrupulous owners fail to inspect tires and brakes in an effort to save money. Owners should also inspect driver logs. Drivers are legally bound to rest after a certain amount of hours. Instead, many of them drive longer to try and make more money. In certain instances, manufacturers of hazardous materials may be liable. This depends on whether the driver was told about the dangers of the load. If you need an attorney to represent you, visit the website of Stephen M. Reck and Click Here.
