Truck accidents often cause severe injuries. A commercial truck could weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded and has a much higher center of gravity. The driver in the passenger vehicle will likely end up with serious injuries in a truck accident.
Whenever someone is involved in an accident with a commercial truck, it is important to identify the liable parties. Depending on the situation, the injured party may be able to sue one or more parties.
The driver of a commercial truck is responsible for driving safely. The driver must also make sure the vehicle is in good condition. Doing any negligent actions while driving or operating a vehicle could make the driver liable for an accident.
However, there are other parties that could be responsible for a commercial truck accident. The owner or leaser of the truck could be liable for damages. Third parties that maintain or repair the trucks could also be at fault.
If warehouse workers improperly loaded the truck, and a shifting load caused the accident, the warehouse company could be liable as well. A defective tire or part that fails and causes an accident can lead to the manufacturer being liable.
Video evidence of the accident, witnesses, and statements could help prove liability. An experienced truck accident lawyer can help identify the responsible parties.
If the truck accident occurs within Washington D.C., the city’s no-fault auto insurance system would apply in your case. The city requires owners of vehicles registered there to purchase personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. PIP pays for medical treatment regardless of who caused the accident.
If you are injured in a truck accident, your PIP coverage would pay up to your policy’s limits for your medical treatment. If any of your damages exceed your PIP policy, you could seek compensation from liable parties in certain circumstances. You should speak with a lawyer to determine if you are eligible to file a suit.
An experienced Washington DC truck accidents lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King can meet with you if you have been seriously injured in a truck accident. Call us at 202-331-1963 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation. We have offices in Washington, D.C., Alexandria, Virginia, and National Harbor, Maryland, and we proudly assist clients in Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.
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