Legal Representation For Trucking Accidents In The Boston Area
Trucking accident statistics from 2023 show that there were over 2,000 accidents in Massachusetts, with wrongful death occurring in 30 of them (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration data). If you were injured or lost a family member in a truck or commercial vehicle accident, you need a lawyer right away.
At Greene LLP in Boston, we have well over three decades of combined experience. Our knowledgeable, caring attorneys understand the devastation a trucking accident causes to people in passenger vehicles. We know that your life may never be the same after a serious injury or the loss of a loved one. Count on us to protect your rights, hold the negligent parties accountable and seek the compensation you need. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case. Call today.
Types And Causes Of Trucking Accidents
What can cause a trucking accident? There are almost too many reasons to list, but some of the most common causes include:
- Poorly maintained or buckled roadways
- Unsecured or unbalanced cargo/oversized loads
- Brake failures
- Steering failures
- Fuel tank leaks leading to fires
- Tire blowouts
- Truck maintenance issues
- Faulty truck parts
- Truck driver negligence
- Not following trucking safety regulations
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Distracted driving (texting/talking/eating)
- Drowsy driving/not taking required rest breaks
- Hazardous materials spills
- Jackknife accidents
- Underride accidents involving small vehicles
- Rollovers
- Wide turns
- Improper lane changes
- Failure to adjust to traffic or road conditions
One thing to remember about trucking accidents is that there may be multiple negligent parties involved. This is one reason why you need a lawyer on your side. We know who is likely to be responsible for the accident, and we will investigate the cause to determine liability. For example, the truck driver and the trucking company may be negligent if the trucking company pressured the driver to work without adequate rest breaks.
The Consequences Of A Large Truck Accident Are Often Catastrophic Or Fatal
There is such a size and weight disparity between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles that people in the smaller vehicles are more likely to be seriously injured in an accident. Severe injuries that can be caused in a trucking accident can include:
- Fractured or crushed bones
- Compartment syndrome
- Amputations
- Burn injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Penetrating head injuries
- Life-threatening lacerations
- Roof crush injuries
- Impalement injuries
- Internal organ injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Loss of sight
- Facial injuries
- Scarring and disfigurement
Many of these injuries are permanent, and some may result in wrongful death. We can represent you in a wrongful death claim if you lost a family member in a trucking accident. Fatalities in trucking accidents are not unusual.
Why You Need A Trucking Accident Attorney
An accident with a commercial truck is more complicated than a car-car accident. Interstate trucks must follow federal and state laws, so you need a lawyer who knows both. There may be more than one negligent party, which means determining liability is more complex. In addition, the insurance issues may be more intricate when a commercial vehicle is involved.
The most important reason you need a truck accident attorney is that commercial insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers on staff. Their job is to minimize the amount that the insurance company pays to injured accident victims and their families. We protect your right to compensation for lost wages, medical bills, pain and suffering, wrongful death and more.
Who Can Be Held Liable In A Trucking Accident?
There may be several liable parties, including:
- The driver
- The trucking company
- The manufacturer of any defective parts
- The municipality that keeps the road in shape
We will investigate the accident to determine who the negligent party or parties are in your case.
What To Do After A Trucking Accident
If you are able to do so safely, there are steps you can take after an accident with a commercial truck. Consider the following steps:
- Call 911 to report the accident and request an ambulance.
- Take photos of the accident scene, if possible.
- Exchange information with the truck driver and any other involved drivers, if possible.
- Do not admit fault for the accident.
- Notify your insurance company.
- Speak with a lawyer as soon as you can.
The sooner you talk to an attorney, the less likely you are to accidentally say or do something that could harm your case for damages.
We’re Here For You And Your Family After An Accident
There are many things to consider after a trucking accident. Let us help you sort out the legal details and build a strong case for compensation. Please call our Boston office at Call or contact us online today. Your consultation is free.