Getting into an accident with a tractor-trailer or other commercial truck is a nightmare. These crashes are often fatal, and survivors might have permanent, life-changing injuries.
D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, is a local personal injury law firm that has been helping people after severe accidents for decades. A Connecticut truck accident lawyer on our team will work diligently to hold the responsible parties accountable and ensure you have the resources you need to recover and move forward after the crash.
Driving a truck is difficult. Commercial trucks have large blind spots on all four sides, which requires the trucker to pay close attention to their cameras and mirrors. A truck’s steering is stiff, and a truck’s size and weight mean that braking to a stop can take longer. It could be difficult for a truck driver to avoid an unexpected hazard on the road.
Delivery schedules are often tight, and truckers sometimes speed or don’t take enough rest so that they can make their deliveries on time. Even though the law is strict about how many hours a trucker can drive in a day and a week, violations of these rules are common. Driver fatigue is a common cause of accidents.
Trucking companies might cut corners to increase profits. They may not be proactive about vehicle maintenance, increasing the chances of an axle break or tire blowout. They could intentionally overload the trailer or impose an unrealistic delivery schedule. Some companies hire inexperienced drivers who are more prone to accidents; or drivers that have a history of accidents.
Every driver who operates a vehicle has a duty to obey the law and operate their vehicle safely. Under federal law, truckers and transportation companies have a heightened responsibility. Transportation companies and their drivers must use the utmost care to avoid causing harm to others.
When a truck gets into a crash, a proactive Connecticut attorney at our firm will investigate to find the cause. In most cases, there is evidence that the trucker or the trucking company did not use the utmost care. Perhaps the truck was overdue for new tires, or the driver did not take as many breaks that day as the law requires.
When a truck driver or trucking company violates the law or one of the many safety standards that regulate the industry, the company is liable to anyone who suffers an injury. If you were hurt, the company’s insurance would be responsible for reimbursing your medical bills, lost wages, and property damage, and paying compensation for your pain and suffering.
Connecticut General Statutes § 52-584 requires anyone suing for personal injuries to bring a lawsuit within two years of the incident that caused the injuries. When the injured person is a child, a parent or guardian may sue on the child’s behalf.
Even though Connecticut state law gives you some time after a tractor-trailer wreck to think about what you want to do, don’t wait to contact a lawyer. A seasoned legal professional could ensure that the trucking company and others preserve all the evidence that might be relevant so that it’s available if you decide to sue later. And often trucking companies have investigators on the scene of a crash before the vehicles are cleared away.
A representative from the trucking company’s insurer might contact you soon after the crash with a quick settlement offer. The offer might sound generous, but it’s almost certainly inadequate if you factor in your future losses like ongoing medical care or reduced earning ability. If you have a qualified attorney representing you, they can negotiate with the insurance company and arrive at a settlement that provides reasonable, fair, and full compensation for your losses.
Truck accidents can cause devastating physical and psychological injuries. You may need a long time to recover and get your emotional bearings.
A Connecticut truck accident lawyer at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, understands what you are going through and is prepared to support you throughout the legal process. We offer free, no-obligation consultations, so you have nothing to lose by speaking to us about your potential case. Call now to get started.
