The transportation industry is an integral part of our economy. As such, it’s likely that while you’re navigating the roadways in New Jersey, you will encounter a commercial truck. Unfortunately, commercial truck accidents are particularly devastating, often resulting in catastrophic injuries and fatalities due to the sheer size and weight of big rigs. Being injured in a truck accident in New Jersey truck accident can be a life-altering experience that could result in severe physical, emotional, and financial burdens. If you’re the victim of a truck accident, it’s in your best interest to enlist the help of an experienced Essex County Auto Accident Attorney who can help you recover compensation for the burdens you have wrongfully suffered at the hands of another party. Please continue reading to learn the most common causes of trucking accidents in New Jersey to mitigate the risks.
What Factors Lead to Trucking Accidents in New Jersey?
As mentioned above, the transportation industry is a vital part of the economy, meaning trucks are constantly hauling cargo across the U.S. While commercial truck drivers must adhere to trucking regulations, including hours of service, they often exceed the legally permitted driving time limits, which can result in fatigue and an increased risk of accidents. Federal trucking regulations are intended to reduce driver fatigue by limiting the number of consecutive hours truckers can work and mandating breaks and off-duty hours. For instance, property-carrying commercial trucks can only operate their vehicles for up to 11 hours after taking a rest of 10 consecutive hours. Commercial truck drivers who ignore these limitations are likelier to be involved in an accident.
Equipment failure is another major cause of truck accidents. Commercial trucks are composed of complex mechanical parts. If there is a mechanical breakdown, it could quickly result in a tragic accident. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires every truck driver and company to perform a pre-trip inspection, regular inspections, and maintenance of their trucks.
Moreover, inexperienced drivers are more likely to be involved in a truck accident. In recent years, the trucking industry has lost many older and more experienced drivers, replaced by drivers with far less experience operating a vehicle of such caliber. These drivers are more likely to make driving errors that lead to accidents.
Should I Consult an Attorney?
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident due to another driver’s negligence, it’s in your best interest to retain the legal services of a qualified Essex County auto accident attorney who can help you take the necessary steps to safeguard your legal rights and fight for the just compensation you deserve. At The Law Offices of Christopher T. Howell, Esq., we understand that every case is unique, and some may require aggressive litigation to achieve the most favorable results. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a truck accident in New Jersey, please don’t hesitate to seek the help of a talented attorney who can help you get justice.
