Being in a truck accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. The size and weight of commercial trucks often lead to serious injuries and significant financial burdens for those involved.
If you’ve been hurt in a truck accident in Baltimore, understanding your right to compensation is the first step toward recovery. Ben Crump Law can help.
What Types of Damages Can You Claim After a Baltimore Truck Accident?
When a large truck causes an accident, the resulting injuries can be severe and long-lasting. The law allows you to seek compensation for various losses you’ve experienced. These are often referred to as “damages.”
One key area of compensation is medical expenses. These include the cost of doctor visits, hospital stays, physical therapy, medications, and any future medical care you might need because of your injuries. Keeping detailed records of all your medical treatments and bills is essential.
You can also seek compensation for lost wages. If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover the income you’ve lost and any future earnings you might miss out on due to your injuries. This can be significant, especially if your injuries are severe and long-term.
Beyond the direct financial costs, you can also pursue compensation for pain and suffering. This accounts for the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve endured because of the accident and your injuries. While harder to quantify, this is a crucial aspect of your claim.
In some tragic cases, a truck accident can result in the death of a loved one. In such situations, the surviving family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. This can compensate for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and financial support the deceased would have provided.
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How is Fault Determined in a Baltimore Truck Accident Case?
Determining who is at fault for a truck accident is critical to the legal process. Unlike typical car accidents, truck accidents can involve multiple parties. These could include the truck driver, the trucking company, the owner, or even a defective truck part manufacturer.
Several factors can contribute to a truck accident. Driver fatigue is a significant concern in the trucking industry. Federal regulations limit the number of hours a truck driver can operate, but unfortunately, these rules are not always followed. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), “[d]river fatigue is a known safety risk and a contributing factor in a significant number of large truck crashes.”
Another common cause is truck driver negligence. This can include speeding, distracted driving, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or violating traffic laws. Trucking companies are also responsible for properly maintaining their vehicles and ensuring their drivers are qualified and adequately trained. Failure to do so can also lead to accidents.
“Evidence is key in any truck accident case,” explains the Maryland Courts website. “This can include police reports, witness statements, and even data from the truck’s black box.”
What Steps Should You Take After a Truck Accident in Baltimore?
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, your actions immediately afterward can significantly impact your ability to pursue a successful compensation claim. It starts with the guidance of a Baltimore personal injury lawyer.
Here are some critical steps to consider:
- Ensure your safety and the safety of others. Move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic.
- Call the police. A police report provides an official accident record and can be valuable evidence.
- Exchange information. Get the truck driver’s name, contact information, driver’s license number, and the trucking company’s name. Also, obtain the truck’s license plate number and any insurance information they provide.
- Gather evidence at the scene. If you can, take photos of the damage to all vehicles involved, the accident scene, and any visible injuries. Get contact information from any witnesses.
- Seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, even if you don’t feel seriously injured. A thorough medical examination is crucial.
- Do not talk to the trucking company or their insurance adjuster without speaking to a lawyer first. They may get you to say things that could harm your claim.
- Keep a detailed record of all your medical treatment, expenses, and lost income. This documentation will be essential when pursuing your claim.
- Contact an experienced Baltimore truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can protect your rights and guide you through the complex legal process.
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Why Choose Ben Crump Law for Your Baltimore Truck Accident Claim?
Dealing with the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming. You’re likely facing physical pain, emotional distress, and financial worries. Ben Crump Law has a proven track record of fighting for the rights of injury victims and holding negligent parties accountable.
Our team understands the complexities of truck accident cases and has the resources to conduct thorough investigations. We will work tirelessly to gather evidence, identify all responsible parties, and build a strong case on your behalf. Our goal is to ensure you receive the full and fair compensation you deserve so you can focus on your recovery.
We are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to the people of Baltimore. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Ben Crump Law today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you navigate this challenging time and fight for the justice you deserve.
Don’t face this difficult time alone–contact us today to take the first step toward justice.
About Ben Crump Law
Renowned civil rights attorney Ben Crump founded Ben Crump Law PLLC, believing justice equals respect. His firm is devoted to advocating for the voiceless of our society whenever or whatever kind of harm may have befallen them. From personal injury to labor and employment matters to class action lawsuits and many other types (click to view all practice areas), our attorneys are dedicated to holding the powerful accountable for their actions.
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