Trucking accidents can be extremely serious due to the size of commercial trucks compared to standard vehicles on the road. These accidents can cause severe injuries to accident victims, and in some cases, even fatalities. In New Jersey, busy highways and interstates see a considerable amount of commercial truck traffic, increasing the risk of such accidents. When a trucking accident occurs, dealing with trucking companies and their insurers can be a daunting process, especially if you try to do it on your own. A legal consultation is highly recommended, at the very least. Understanding your rights and the legal options available to you is also very important so that you are able to recover fair compensation for your losses.

A notable example highlighting the complexities of trucking accident cases in New Jersey is the recent settlement reported in the New Jersey Law Journal, where a rear-end collision with a tractor-trailer resulted in a $525,000 settlement. This case underscores the importance of thorough legal representation and the challenges involved in negotiating with trucking companies and insurers.

The client in that case was represented by Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law. Our NJ truck accident lawyers took on the case and were able to obtain full compensation. If you have been in an accident and need legal help, we urge you to give our office a call.

Navigating Insurance Claims After a Trucking Accident

Trucking companies and their insurers are generally well-prepared to handle truck accident claims, employing teams of adjusters, lawyers, and investigators to protect their interests, which means protecting their bottom line. Their goal is to minimize the payout and protect the company’s financial stability. This often involves disputing liability, downplaying the severity of injuries, and/or offering quick, lowball settlements.

Challenges in Dealing with Insurers

1. Complex Liability Issues: Determining liability in a trucking accident can be complex, involving multiple parties such as the truck driver, the trucking company, maintenance providers, and manufacturers.
2. Pressure to Settle Quickly: Insurers may pressure victims to accept quick settlements before they fully understand the extent of their injuries or financial losses.
3. Disputing Claims: Insurers may dispute claims by arguing that the victim was partially at fault, or that the injuries were pre-existing or not as severe as claimed.
4. Delay Tactics: Insurers may use delay tactics, hoping victims will become desperate and accept lower settlements.

Legal Options for Truck Accident Victims

Luckily, victims of trucking accidents have legal options, including the right to file a personal injury claim to seek compensation for their damages, such as:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for all medical treatments related to the injury, including emergency care, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to the inability to work during recovery.
• Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Property Damage: Reimbursement for damage to the vehicle and other personal property.

Wrongful Death Claims

In cases where a trucking accident results in a fatality, the victim’s family may file a wrongful death claim. This can provide compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and other related damages.

Trucking Accidents in New Jersey

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents

Trucking accidents can occur due to a variety of reasons, from driver fatigue to distracted driving. In some cases, there were mechanical failures due to improper maintenance.

• Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to driver fatigue, impairing reaction times and decision-making abilities.
• Distracted Driving: Use of mobile devices, eating, or other distractions can divert a driver’s attention from the road.
• Improper Maintenance: Failure to maintain trucks properly can result in mechanical failures, such as brake or tire issues.
• Overloading: Trucks carrying more than their legal load limit can become unstable and harder to control.
• Weather Conditions: Poor weather can exacerbate the already challenging task of driving a large commercial vehicle.

Impact of Trucking Accidents on Victims

The impact of a trucking accident can be devastating to the victims. An accident victim may suffer from severe injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, fractures, and internal injuries. Additionally, the financial burden of medical bills, loss of income, and property damage can be overwhelming, not to mention the emotional and psychological toll on both the victims and their families.

Call Us Today For Legal Help

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident, Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, is here to support you. Our team of attorneys have extensive experience handling truck accident cases, specifically in New Jersey.

Call our office today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.