Maryland Truck Accident Attorney

Helping Our Injured Clients Heal in Prince George's, Charles, Calvert, & Anne Arundel

A passenger car is no match for a semi tractor-trailer, and for this reason, crashes involving cars and trucks nearly always result in catastrophic injury or death, but often not for the truck driver. Truck accidents are much more dangerous than typical passenger car crashes due to their incredible size and weight. A passenger vehicle weighs an average of 4,000 pounds, while an 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Injuries from truck accidents can be severe and long-lasting, ranging from broken bones to internal organ damage to traumatic brain injury and death.

Potter Law, LLC wants to make sure victims of truck accidents are properly compensated for all they’ve been through, from severe injuries to mental trauma. You can trust us to handle the details and paperwork of your accident claim and communicate with insurance adjusters on your behalf while you focus on making a full recovery.

Call us as soon as possible to schedule your free consultation at (301) 850-7000 or fill out our online form. We can take the pressure off while you focus on healing.

Common Types of Truck Accidents in Maryland

Some types of truck accidents are identical to other types of car crashes, like rear-end accidents, T-bone accidents, and head-on collisions. However, there are some accidents that are unique to tractor-trailers due to their size and weight, all of which can cause disastrous damage and injuries.

Truck accidents often result in intricate legal challenges due to the multiple parties involved. For instance, the truck's operating company may share liability if improper maintenance or overloading is found to have contributed to the accident. Moreover, the manufacturer of the truck or its parts can also be implicated if mechanical failure is identified. Understanding these dynamics is crucial when negotiating settlements or pursuing litigation.

Some unique types of truck accidents include:

• Jackknife Accidents: Jackknifing occurs when trucks brake suddenly and hard, causing their trailers to swing out at a 90-degree angle to resemble a jackknife. This type of crash is deadly because it can easily lead to a rollover and block off entire sections of the road, not to mention crush any vehicles in the vicinity.
• Rollovers: When truck drivers lose control, their truck can roll over onto its side or roof, crushing nearby vehicles and spilling cargo, which can pose a hazard to others on the road. Rollovers are often caused by truck drivers who are speeding and lose control or who brake too quickly.
• Underride Accidents: These accidents are among the deadliest types of truck accidents and occur when trucks stop quickly or change lanes suddenly, causing approaching vehicles to get stuck beneath the tractor-trailer. Oftentimes, the top of the smaller vehicle is ripped off, causing amputations.

Understanding Maryland's Trucking Laws & Liability

Maryland's trucking laws are crucial to understanding liability and safety standards for commercial drivers in the state. The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) oversee the rulemaking for truck operations to ensure that trucks are maintained and operated safely. These regulations include weight limits, rest periods for drivers, and requirements for securing loads, which are designed to prevent accidents on highways like I-95 and I-70, where truck traffic is dense.

Trucking companies are required to adhere to both state and federal regulations, and violations can play a significant role in determining fault in truck accidents. Understanding these regulations and utilizing them in legal proceedings ensures accountability for breaches that lead to accidents. For instance, failure to maintain logs accurately or forcing drivers to exceed safe operating hours can be significant factors in litigation. Such knowledge, combined with legal acumen, can lead to more favorable outcomes for accident victims.

What to Do If You’re Involved in a Truck Accident in Maryland

After a truck accident in Maryland, taking the right steps can protect your wellbeing and legal rights. First, ensure your safety by moving to a secure location away from traffic and seeking medical attention immediately, even if injuries are not immediately apparent. Document the scene with photographs, noting any skid marks, vehicle positions, and visible damages, as these can be pivotal in building a strong claim.

It is also crucial to gather witness statements and contact information; these personal accounts can support your version of events during the claims process. Finally, contact your insurance company to report the accident but refrain from admitting fault or discussing details until you have consulted with a legal professional. Engaging with a knowledgeable truck accident attorney in Maryland, like those at Potter Law, LLC, ensures you navigate the legal complexities effectively, protecting your right to compensation.

Preparing for Your Consultation with a Maryland Truck Accident Attorney

Before meeting with a truck accident lawyer in Maryland, collecting the right information will lay the groundwork for a comprehensive consultation. Begin by compiling all relevant documents, which could include medical records, police reports, insurance correspondence, and any photographic evidence from the scene. Detailed notes about the accident context, such as weather conditions, roadblocks, and any statements made by involved parties, are also invaluable.

Being prepared with questions can also enhance your consultation. Consider asking about the legal process, potential challenges, and what to expect in terms of timeframes and outcomes. Understanding the roles different parties may play in your claim, from insurance companies to potential witnesses, can aid in comprehending the overall process. Potter Law, LLC is committed to guiding you through each step, ensuring you understand the complexities involved and your path towards recovery.

How Is Compensation Calculated in a Truck Accident Claim?

Compensation in a truck accident claim can encompass a variety of damages, ensuring victims receive what they need for recovery and beyond. This includes economic damages like medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage, as well as non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. The severity and permanency of your injuries greatly influence the settlement you may receive. Assessment often involves medical evaluations and expert testimonies to articulate the full extent of harm suffered.

Additionally, punitive damages may be awarded in situations where gross negligence is evident, meant to penalize the at-fault party and deter similar conduct in the future. Calculating compensation requires a thorough understanding of present and future needs, factoring in long-term or lifelong treatment, therapies, and lifestyle adaptations. Collaborative strategies with financial experts and medical professionals are essential for comprehensive, fair compensation assessments.

What Are the Deadlines for Filing a Truck Accident Claim in Maryland?

Maryland enforces a statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims, including those stemming from truck accidents, requiring you to file within three years from the date of the accident. This time frame is critical for ensuring your right to seek damages. Missing this deadline can result in losing the ability to pursue compensation for your injuries and financial losses.

It's advisable to engage with an attorney early in the process to ensure all the necessary steps are taken within required time limits. Gathering evidence, contacting witnesses, and consulting with experts are time-intensive activities, all of which benefit from an organized and timely approach. Early legal guidance can also help navigate any nuances specific to your claim, such as dealing with governmental entities or more complex multilayered claims involving multiple parties.