New Jersey trucking accidents are all too common in New Jersey. In recent weeks, a tractor trailer and two cars collided into a fiery crash on Route 78 in Union, NJ; and, an out of control dump truck got into an accident and careened into a home, causing extensive damage in Egg Harbor, NJ. Whatever part of the Garden State you may be in, truck accidents’ devastating consequences are all too common.
If you’re injured in a truck accident due to another party’s negligence, you may be able to file a personal injury claim to recover compensation for your losses. Financial compensation in a personal injury claim is intended to make you financially whole again as well as compensate you for intangible losses such as pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, disfigurement and scarring and other damages.
Liability in a Trucking Accident
In order to file a claim and maximize your compensation, proving liability in a truck accident is important. While fatigue or license violations may make a truck driver liable for any accident, the driver alone may not bear full responsibility.
The trucking company could be found liable if they weren’t following safety guidelines and/or maintaining proper policies. Trucking companies must perform background checks and ensure their drivers are qualified and licensed to be driving. Liability in a truck accident can be complex and is one of the key reasons to consult an experienced truck accident lawyer to understand your case and your options.
Evidence in a Trucking Accident
As soon as possible after a truck accident, contact a New Jersey trucking accident lawyer to discuss your case. A skilled attorney will start the investigation right away, as it's important to start gathering evidence quickly. Example of evidence in a truck accident include:
Police reports. Police reports are required in New Jersey for any accident resulting in more than $500 worth of damage, which is a very low threshold for a trucking accident. The police report will detail the circumstances known about the accident, property damage as well as witness information.
Trucker’s logbook. The U.S Department of Transportation limits the number of hours a driver can spend behind the wheel. Drivers are therefore required to maintain logbooks, which provide evidence of how many hours were spent driving before the accident.
Electronic Onboard Recording Devices (EOBRs). Trucks are required to be fitted with an electronic data recorder that performs similar to a plane's black box. Apart from the stopping and driving time, the electronic data recorder also provides other crucial information such as braking and speed.
Witness Statements. The police report may detail witness statements and contact information. Your truck accident lawyer may also interview witnesses to gather evidence.
Driver background checks and history. Trucking companies are required to conduct background checks and ensure their drivers are properly trained and qualified. Your attorney may also conduct a background check into the driver’s medical history and record.
Don’t Wait. Get Help from an Experienced New Jersey Truck Accident Lawyer
New Jersey has a two year statute of limitation on personal injury claims. While this may sound like a long time, it's important to start your personal injury claim after a trucking accident as soon as possible. Memories and recollections fade over time. Trucking companies may try to bury or change evidence. Contacting a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible will help to maximize your compensation.
At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we are dedicated to assisting clients throughout New Jersey and New York with their truck accident and personal injury cases. We have decades of experience and the extensive resources you need to secure a fair case result. Our compassionate attorneys put client care and your needs first.
When you hire a New Jersey truck accident lawyer from our team at Brandon J. Broderick, you pay nothing upfront. We work on contingent fees that are only collected if we win your case. Without a legal claim, the insurance company can offer you a lowball offer that barely covers your needs and may even refuse to cover some of the damages. You may be left having to pay for the costs of your injuries on your own. Contact us today and let us turn your setback into a comeback.