Trucks are bigger and heavier than other vehicles, which is one reason they need to be properly cared for. A truck with faulty parts or worn-out safety equipment can be a danger to everyone else on the road. If you got hurt in an accident and someone else’s poor truck maintenance habits were to blame, we may be able to help you. Our Monmouth County, NJ truck accident attorneys can help you build a case and sue for damages.
What Kind of Truck Maintenance Problems Cause Accidents?
All sorts of truck components and systems require proper maintenance. Parts that can cause an accident if not properly maintained include:
- Brakes
- Windows and mirrors
- Transmission
- Lights, like brake lights and turn signals
- Steering column
- Suspension systems
- Couplings
- Tires
A truck that can’t slow down in time due to bad brakes can cause an accident. Couplings that don’t properly secure cargo can cause a dangerous situation. Tires that blow out can cause a driver to lose control. Proper truck maintenance is important.
Who is Responsible For Truck Maintenance?
In most cases, the company that owns the truck is responsible for its maintenance. A top priority should be ensuring that unsafe vehicles do not go out on the road. However, some companies ignore safety rules in favor of seeking out more profits, and this can have deadly consequences.
Drivers also have a responsibility when it comes to truck maintenance. They need to examine their trucks for issues and report back to their bosses about any potential issues. If a driver rushes through their inspections or skips them entirely, they should be held accountable when a mechanical failure causes an accident.
A mechanic who is lax about their inspections could also be sued if a poorly maintained truck causes an accident. If you can show that mechanics were not properly evaluating vehicles before they went out on their expeditions, they might be liable.
What Should I Do After a Truck Accident?
After a truck accident, you should take pictures of the accident scene and the damage to your vehicle. You should also call the police so that they can make a report. This can all be useful evidence later.
You also should get medical care as soon as possible. If you try to put off seeing the doctor, an insurer might be able to use that against you when you sue.
How Can a Lawyer Help?
Pursuing damages on your own can be tough. An experienced lawyer from our firm can help you with your case in some important ways. They can:
- Gather evidence, like vehicle inspection records
- Calculate fair compensation
- Communicate with insurers and other parties on your behalf
- File your case before the statute of limitations expires
- Defend you from any accusations of wrongdoing
- Prepare you to testify in court or at a deposition
- Field settlement offers
- Answer any questions that you have about the legal process
Schedule Your Consultation Today
So if you have been hurt in a truck accident, contact the Wilton Law Firm. We can schedule a free consultation for you. There is no obligation, but we are ready to help you fight for the compensation that you and your family deserve.
