Truck accidents can be some of the most devastating accidents on the road. When you or a loved one is involved in a delivery truck accident in Connecticut, it is important to know what to do and who to contact for help.
In this article, we will discuss the steps you should take if you are involved in an accident with a delivery truck in Connecticut, the claims process, and more.
Keep in mind that every case is different, so be sure to speak with a Connecticut personal injury lawyer if you have any specific questions. An experienced attorney is more likely to help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you get the compensation you deserve.
Connecticut Truck Delivery Accidents – A Background
Truck accidents are a major problem on Connecticut roads. The Federal Highway Administration continues to report fatalities and deaths every year. Many of these accidents are caused by truck driver fatigue, distracted driving, or improper vehicle maintenance.
As a result, the state has implemented several safety regulations designed to reduce the number of delivery truck accidents. These regulations include mandatory rest breaks for delivery truck drivers; strict inspection and maintenance requirements; and increased penalties for truck drivers who violate traffic laws. These regulations have proven effective to some degree.
However, despite these efforts, the number of delivery truck accidents in Connecticut still remains high. To further reduce the number of accidents, the state must do more to enforce its safety regulations and hold truck drivers accountable for their actions.
What Are the Common Causes of Delivery Truck Accidents?
Many different factors can contribute to a delivery truck accident. Some of the most common causes of these accidents include:
Distracted Driving
When a driver takes their eyes off the road, even for a second, it can have fatal consequences. Although most states have laws banning texting while driving, many delivery truck drivers continue to break these laws.
In addition to texting, other common distractions include talking on the phone, checking the GPS, eating, and drinking.
Fatigue
Truck drivers often work long hours, and the monotony of the road can quickly lead to drowsiness. Additionally, many drivers are under pressure to meet tight schedules, which can further contribute to fatigue. As a result, it is not uncommon for truckers to fall asleep at the wheel or make other errors that can lead to accidents.
Poorly Maintained Trucks
When a truck is not regularly serviced and repaired, it can develop mechanical problems that can lead to accidents. For example, brakes may wear out prematurely, tires may become bald or damaged, and engine parts may fail. In addition, poorly maintained trucks are more likely to break down on the side of the road, which can also lead to accidents.
Inclement Weather
Heavy rain and strong winds can make it difficult for truck drivers to see the road and more challenging to control the truck. Ice and snow can also make it more difficult for trucks to stop and increase the chances of a truck sliding or jackknifing.
What Are the Most Common Injuries in Truck Accident Claims?
Some of the most common injuries in truck accident claims include:
- Brain injuries: Traumatic brain injuries are some of the most severe injuries caused by a truck accident. These injuries can lead to long-term complications, such as memory loss, paralysis, and even death.
- Neck and back injuries: Whiplash and other neck and back injuries, are common in truck accidents. These injuries can cause long-term pain and suffering.
- Broken bones: Truck accidents often result in broken bones. These injuries can take weeks or months to heal and may require surgery.
- Internal bleeding: Internal bleeding is a serious injury that can occur in a truck accident. This type of injury can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
What Should I Do If You’ve Been Injured in a Truck Accident?
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, there are a few things you should do:
Seek Medical Attention
The first and most important step is to seek medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor, it is essential to have them evaluated by a medical professional. This is not only important for your health, but it will also create a record of your injuries that can be used as evidence in your personal injury claim.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
In many cases, it may be necessary to file a lawsuit against the trucking company to receive the compensation you deserve. So, after seeing a doctor, your next step should be to contact a personal injury lawyer.
A personal injury lawyer can assess your case and help you determine the best course of action. They can also help you negotiate with insurance companies and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Gather Necessary Evidence
Finally, be sure to keep track of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
Taking these steps gives you the best possible chance of receiving the compensation you need to recover from your injuries.
Who Is Liable in a Truck Accident?
Many different parties could be responsible for a truck accident. They can include;
The Truck driver
Most often, when a truck accident occurs, the truck driver is nearly always deemed to be the primary cause of the accident. Truck drivers are expected to follow all traffic laws and to use caution when driving in potentially dangerous conditions. If a truck driver fails to do this and an accident occurs, they will usually be held responsible.
The Trucking Company
In any truck accident, the trucking company may be held responsible if its negligence played a role in causing the crash. For example, if a company fails to properly maintain the trucks or conduct adequate background checks on its drivers, they can be held liable. Also, a company can be held responsible in a situation where they encourage their drivers to violate hours-of-service regulations.
The Truck Manufacturer
The truck manufacturer is responsible for ensuring that the truck is safe to operate. If a truck is found to be defective, the manufacturer can be held liable for any accidents resulting from the defect. For example, the manufacturer could be held liable if the accident was caused by brake failure.
Do Delivery Truck Accident Victims Get Compensation?
Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation from the trucking company or insurance company.
In Connecticut, truck accident victims may be able to recover economic and non-economic damages. Economic damage includes medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
Non-economic damages are more difficult to measure quantitatively, but they can include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, speak with an experienced attorney who can help you understand your rights and options. The lawyer will review the facts of your case and advise you on the best course of action. If you have a valid claim, the lawyer will work with you to pursue damages from the responsible parties.
What Is the Truck Accident Claims Process?
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Connecticut, you may be wondering what the claims process is and how to go about filing a personal injury claim. Here’s a brief overview of the process:
- File a police report: You should always file a police report after an accident, regardless of who is at fault. Be sure to get a copy of the police report for your records.
- Gather evidence: Collect any evidence from the accident scene, including photos, witness statements, and your account of what happened
- Hire an accident attorney: An experienced truck accident attorney can help you navigate the claims process and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
- File a claim: Once you’ve gathered all the necessary information and documents, you can file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company or with your insurer if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
- Negotiate a settlement: Once your accident attorney has gathered all the necessary evidence, they will begin negotiating with the insurance companies involved in the accident. In most cases, these negotiations will result in a settlement covering your medical expenses and any other damages you may have suffered from the accident. However, your case will likely go to trial if an agreement can’t be reached.
Contact an Accident Attorney for Help with Your Claim Today!
Nothing can ever really match the pain and devastation caused by a truck accident. And when it involves a large delivery truck, the consequences can be even more severe.
If you or a loved one has been involved in such an accident in Connecticut, it is important to take the necessary steps to protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve. By following the tips above and contacting a personal injury attorney, you will be in the best possible position to get the compensation you need and deserve.
At Jonathan Perkins Injury Lawyers, our team has extensive experience handling delivery truck accident cases. We know how to investigate these accidents and build a strong case for compensation. We’ll fight for your right to receive damages for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.