New Jersey, with its ports, network of railways, and interstate highways, is a hub for shipments of consumer goods across the country. Semi-trucks and other commercial trucks are a common sight on the highways and city streets, but these giants of the asphalt are anything but gentle if you’re unfortunate enough to get into a collision with one. Many people suffer serious injuries in a truck accident; in the worst cases, these collisions are fatal.
Commercial drivers are held to strict standards for driving the vehicle and ensuring safe operation on the roads. If they cause an accident, whether through negligence or carelessness, they should be held accountable. These cases can get complicated, though; the help of a skilled Hackensack, NJ, truck accident lawyer can make a difference in the size of a settlement you receive, even if you receive compensation at all.
Contact Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. today for a free case review. We handle even the most complex truck accident claims, and we’re ready to fight for you.
What Can A Hackensack Truck Accident Lawyer Do For Me?
When an 80,000-pound truck collides with your much-smaller car or SUV, the force of the impact can cause devastating injury. Brain injuries, multiple broken bones, and internal organ damage are common. Many people may face months of medical treatment and rehabilitation with an uncertain outcome. You could be permanently disabled or have extensive scarring and disfigurement.
The cost of treating truck accident injuries can quickly add up. Coupled with being out of work for several days or weeks to recover, many victims may be facing an insurmountable financial burden. It’s our job, as experienced truck accident attorneys, to fight for fair compensation to cover all your losses, including pain and suffering and ongoing medical treatment.
Complications With Truck Accident Cases
Truck accidents have complications that other types of traffic collisions may not. First, they’re usually higher-value than other claims because the victims’ injuries may be extensive. Insurance companies scrutinize larger claims and may try to minimize the extent of your injury or even pin the blame for the wreck on you! We know these tricks – and we know how to counter them.
Truck accident claims may also involve multiple defendants. Many times, the shipping carrier who employed or contracted the driver is also held liable for their actions. If the trucking company set an unreasonable schedule for the driver, failed to do due diligence in hiring, or was negligent in maintaining the vehicle, then they, too, may be named as a defendant.
These complications require resources other personal injury firms may not have. We have these resources and the tenacity to litigate your claim to the end.
Do You Need Legal Advice After A Truck Accident?
Have you been struck by a semi-truck or other commercial vehicle? We’re ready to pursue your claim, no matter how powerful the other side looks. The accomplished Hackensack truck accident lawyers from our firm have the experience and resources needed to litigate even the most hotly contested truck accident, and we’re ready to fight for you. Contact Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. today for a free consultation.
Common Missteps In Truck Accident Claims
An experienced Hackensack, NJ truck accident lawyer understands that the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming for victims and their families. Truck accidents are catastrophic events that often lead to severe injuries and significant damages. To help you better navigate this challenging time, we’ve outlined some frequent missteps that can jeopardize a truck accident claim.
Failing To Gather Adequate Evidence At The Scene
One of the first and most crucial errors individuals make following a truck accident is not collecting sufficient evidence at the scene. If physically able, it’s essential to take photographs of the vehicles involved, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area. Gathering contact information from witnesses and a copy of the police report also plays a vital role. This information can be critical in building a strong foundation for your claim.
Overlooking Federal And State Regulations
Truck drivers and trucking companies are subject to stringent federal and state regulations, including those regarding hours of service, maintenance, and cargo loading. Overlooking these regulations can be a critical mistake. A skilled Hackensack, NJ truck accident lawyer works to thoroughly investigate whether all relevant laws were followed, as violations can be pivotal in proving negligence.
Communicating Directly With Insurance Companies
Another common mistake is engaging directly with insurance companies without legal representation. Insurance adjusters are skilled at securing statements that may undermine your position and reduce the settlement amount. We strongly advise our clients to let us handle all communications with insurers to protect their rights and interests.
Accepting Quick Settlement Offers
In the wake of a truck accident, you may receive a quick settlement offer from an insurance company. While it might be tempting to accept this offer and move forward, these initial proposals are often substantially lower than what you may be entitled to. Accepting an offer without consulting with an attorney can result in receiving less compensation than needed to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Misunderstanding The Value Of Your Claim
Many individuals do not have a clear understanding of the full value of their claim, which includes not only immediate medical expenses but also long-term care costs, pain and suffering, and lost earning capacity. For decades we have helped our clients understand the comprehensive impact of their injuries to ensure that any settlement reflects the true extent of their losses.
Not Securing Legal Representation Early
One of the most detrimental errors is waiting too long to seek legal representation. Time is critical in truck accident claims, as evidence can quickly disappear and witness memories can fade. Led by Barry S. Kantrowitz, our attorneys take swift action to preserve evidence and build a compelling personal injury case on your behalf.
Let Us Help You Avoid These Mistakes
At Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C., we are committed to guiding you through the legal process with compassion and expertise. Hackensack truck accident lawyers understand the challenges you face and are here to ensure that common missteps do not hinder your path to justice and recovery. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, contact us today. Let us help you take the correct steps towards securing the compensation you deserve.
Key Considerations Involved In Truck Accidents
A Hackensack, NJ truck accident lawyer understands that when it comes to these types of accidents, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks, these accidents tend to result in more severe injuries and damage compared to typical car collisions. Individuals involved in these accidents need to understand the unique factors that come into play. Below, we’ve outlined several considerations that can make truck accident cases more complex.
The Size And Weight Difference Between Trucks And Cars
One of the most obvious aspects of truck accidents is the significant size and weight difference between trucks and passenger vehicles. This disparity often leads to devastating outcomes in terms of injury severity and property damage. When a truck collides with a car, the impact is far more substantial due to the truck’s momentum, which can create serious complications for those involved. This factor alone can affect the way a truck accident case is handled, both in terms of liability and compensation.
Driver Fatigue As A Major Risk Factor
Truck drivers are often under pressure to meet tight deadlines, which can lead to long hours on the road and, in some cases, driver fatigue. Fatigue is one of the leading causes of truck accidents, as it impairs the driver’s reaction time and decision-making abilities. This can result in tragic accidents that might have been avoidable if the driver had been more rested. When looking into the details of a truck accident, it’s essential to investigate the driver’s work schedule and rest breaks to determine if fatigue played a role.
The Role Of Truck Maintenance
Commercial trucks undergo significant wear and tear due to their constant use over long distances. Proper maintenance is critical to keeping these vehicles safe on the road. If a truck is not maintained regularly or if key components like brakes or tires are faulty, the risk of an accident increases dramatically. Investigating the maintenance history of the truck involved in an accident can reveal whether mechanical failure contributed to the crash.
The Impact Of Hazardous Cargo
Many trucks transport hazardous materials, including chemicals, fuel, or other dangerous goods. In the event of an accident, these materials can pose an additional layer of risk. Spills or leaks of hazardous substances can lead to environmental damage, health hazards, or even explosions. According to Hackensack truck accident lawyers, understanding the type of cargo being transported and the safety measures in place is a critical step in addressing the aftermath of a truck accident involving dangerous materials.
Determining Liability In Multi-Party Accidents
Truck accidents often involve multiple parties, such as the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, and even manufacturers of the truck’s components. This makes determining liability a complex process. It’s not always clear who is at fault, and in many cases, several parties may share responsibility. Sorting through these details is crucial in building a strong case and pursuing fair compensation for the victims.
Call To Action
If you or someone you love has been involved in a truck accident, it’s important to take action quickly. Seeking legal guidance from an experienced Hackensack truck accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and the steps needed to pursue a fair resolution. Since 1975, our team at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. has supported our clients every step of the way. Let’s work together to ensure that you receive the help and compensation you deserve. Reach out to our team today to get started on the path toward recovery.
Hackensack Truck Accident Infographic
Hackensack Truck Accident FAQs
Truck accidents can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with injuries, property damage, and insurance claims. Knowing what steps to take and what legal options are available can make a significant difference in your case. Our Hackensack, NJ truck accident lawyer is here to answer any questions that you may have.
Since 1975, our attorneys have brought a wealth of legal knowledge, sound strategies and client commitment to individuals, families and consumer interests statewide, regionally and nationally. We are dedicated to helping people — at their jobs, at their homes, at businesses they own, and at institutions they trust.
What Should I Do Immediately After Being Involved In A Truck Accident?
Taking the right steps after a truck accident is important. The first priority after a truck accident is safety. If possible, move to a safe location and check for injuries. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. Even if injuries seem minor, getting medical attention is important for your health and for documenting your injuries. Law enforcement will document the scene and gather statements, which can be useful if legal action is necessary. Collect information from the truck driver, including their name, employer, and insurance details. Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information. Avoid discussing fault at the scene and contact a truck accident attorney as soon as possible.
Who Can Be Held Liable In A Truck Accident Case?
Liability in a truck accident depends on multiple factors. The truck driver may be responsible if they were speeding, distracted, or driving under the influence. The trucking company could also be held liable if they failed to maintain the vehicle or violated regulations regarding driver hours. Other parties, such as manufacturers, cargo loaders, or maintenance providers, may share responsibility if defective parts or improper loading contributed to the crash. Determining liability requires an investigation into driving records, vehicle maintenance logs, and accident reports. A legal team can help identify the responsible parties and pursue compensation.
What Types Of Compensation Can I Receive After A Truck Accident?
Victims of truck accidents may recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Medical costs can include hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future treatment. Lost income from missing work may also be recoverable. If the injuries impact long-term earning potential, additional compensation may be available. Pain and suffering damages address the physical and emotional impact of the accident. In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the responsible party’s actions were reckless. Each case is different, and the amount of compensation depends on factors such as injury severity and the impact on daily life. Our Hackensack truck accident attorney will help you determine the full extent of compensation that you may be able to recover.
What Are Common Causes Of Truck Accidents?
Truck accidents happen for various reasons, including driver fatigue, speeding, distracted driving, and mechanical failures. Fatigue is a major concern in the trucking industry, as drivers often work long hours. Speeding reduces reaction time, making it harder to avoid collisions. Distractions, such as phone use or adjusting controls, increase the risk of crashes. Mechanical issues and defective parts, including brake failures and tire blowouts, can also lead to serious accidents. Poor road conditions and weather may contribute to crashes, but drivers and companies must take precautions to prevent accidents.
Should I Communicate With The Trucking Company’s Insurance Adjuster?
After a truck accident, the trucking company’s insurance adjuster may contact you for a statement. It is best to avoid speaking with them without legal representation. Insurance adjusters aim to minimize payouts, and anything said could be used to reduce the claim’s value. They may offer a quick settlement that does not fully cover damages. Instead of dealing with the adjuster directly, let our New Jersey truck accident attorney negotiate for you. This helps protect your rights and ensures that any settlement offer reflects the full extent of your losses.
Contact Our Hackensack Truck Accident Lawyer Today
Truck accidents can lead to serious financial and personal challenges. Getting legal guidance can help when dealing with medical bills, insurance claims, and liability issues. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, contact Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. to discuss your options. Our team is here to provide the legal support needed to move forward.