Washington DC Truck Accident Attorney

Commercial trucks are massive vehicles capable of causing devastating damage when involved in a collision. Their size and weight make them difficult to control and stop, even with a driver’s best efforts. Tragically, truck accidents often result in severe injuries and fatalities. A Washington, D.C. truck accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King can advocate on your behalf after a collision.

Why Are Truck Accidents So Dangerous?

The size and power of commercial trucks are key factors in their potential for destruction. These vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, compared to the average passenger car, which weighs about 3,000 pounds. This discrepancy significantly increases the force of impact during a collision. Additionally, trucks require longer stopping distances and are more challenging to maneuver, especially in adverse weather conditions or heavy traffic.

Federal Regulations for Commercial Trucks

The trucking industry is subject to strict federal regulations designed to enhance safety and minimize accidents. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) oversees these rules, which apply to drivers, trucking companies, and other parties involved in commercial transportation.

Hours of Service (HOS) Regulations: One of the most critical regulations is the Hours of Service (HOS) rule, which limits the number of hours a truck driver can be on the road without taking a break. Drivers are generally restricted to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty. These rules aim to reduce fatigue, a common cause of truck accidents. Violations of HOS regulations can result in penalties for both drivers and trucking companies, as well as liability in the event of an accident.
Maintenance and Inspection Standards: Commercial trucks must undergo regular inspections and maintenance to ensure they are roadworthy. The FMCSA requires carriers to document maintenance activities, including brake checks, tire replacements, and engine servicing. Failure to comply with these standards can lead to mechanical failures that increase the likelihood of accidents.
Weight and Cargo Restrictions: Federal regulations also dictate weight limits for commercial trucks, typically capping gross vehicle weight at 80,000 pounds. Additionally, cargo must be loaded and secured properly to prevent shifting during transit. Improperly secured loads can destabilize a truck, causing rollovers or cargo spills that endanger other motorists.
Drug and Alcohol Testing: Trucking companies must implement mandatory drug and alcohol testing for their drivers. Testing is required before employment, randomly during employment, and following certain accidents. Drivers found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol are subject to immediate disqualification, and the trucking company may face liability if it fails to enforce testing policies.

What Are Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Washington, D.C.?

Truck accidents can result from various factors, often linked to driver behavior, vehicle maintenance, or external conditions. Some of the most common causes include:

Distracted Driving: Distractions are a significant contributor to truck accidents. These include texting, talking on the phone (even hands-free), eating, using a GPS device, or simply engaging in conversations with passengers. Any activity that takes the driver’s attention off the road increases the risk of a collision.
Equipment Failure: Commercial trucking companies are required to maintain their vehicles through regular inspections and repairs. However, neglecting routine maintenance can lead to brake failures, tire blowouts, or engine malfunctions that cause serious accidents.
Drowsy Driving: Truck drivers often work long hours to meet strict delivery deadlines. Driving for extended periods without adequate rest impairs focus, reaction time, and decision-making. Despite regulations limiting driving hours, fatigue remains a leading cause of truck accidents.
Improperly Secured Cargo: When cargo is not secured properly, it can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable. Improperly loaded freight can lead to jackknifing or spills that endanger other motorists.
Inexperience: The trucking industry faces a shortage of experienced drivers, leading companies to hire less experienced personnel. Inexperienced drivers may lack the skills to navigate challenging road conditions or handle emergencies effectively.
Blind Spots: Large trucks have significant blind spots on all sides, often called “no-zones. ” If a driver fails to check these blind spots before changing lanes, nearby vehicles risk being sideswiped.
Speeding: Speeding amplifies the danger posed by trucks, as it takes longer to stop a heavy vehicle traveling at high speeds. Collisions involving speeding trucks are more likely to result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.

What Are Common Types of Truck Accidents?

Truck accidents can take many forms, each with its own set of risks and challenges. Common types include:

Jackknife Accidents: Occur when the truck’s trailer swings out at an angle, forming an “L” shape. This often blocks multiple lanes of traffic and causes secondary collisions.
Rear-End Collisions: Trucks may rear-end smaller vehicles if the driver is distracted or unable to stop in time.
Underride Accidents: Smaller vehicles may slide under a truck’s trailer during a collision, leading to severe injuries or fatalities.
Rollover Accidents: Trucks can tip over due to sharp turns, high speeds, or shifting cargo, posing a danger to nearby motorists.
Tow Truck Accidents: Given their size and operational demands, tow truck accidents can also occur. Careful coordination at accident scenes is necessary to protect both tow truck operators and other road users.

Injuries Commonly Sustained in Truck Accidents

Due to the sheer force involved in truck accidents, injuries tend to be severe. Common injuries include:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Result from a sudden impact or penetration of the skull.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Can lead to partial or complete paralysis.
Broken Bones: High-impact collisions often result in multiple fractures.
Internal Injuries: Damage to organs caused by blunt force trauma.
Burns: Fires or explosions are possible in severe truck accidents, leading to painful and life-altering burns.

Victims of truck accidents often face long recovery periods, significant medical expenses, and emotional trauma. Seeking compensation through legal action can help alleviate these burdens.

Who Is Liable for a Truck Accident?

Determining liability in a truck accident can be complex due to the involvement of multiple parties. In addition to the truck driver, the trucking company, cargo loaders, vehicle manufacturers, and even maintenance crews may bear responsibility. For example, if a mechanical failure causes an accident, the maintenance company or manufacturer could be held liable. Similarly, improperly loaded cargo could make the freight company accountable. An experienced truck accident attorney can thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the crash to identify all liable parties and help victims seek maximum compensation.

How a Washington D.C. Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help

Truck accident claims are complex due to the involvement of multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, and potentially other entities. An experienced truck accident attorney can:

Investigate the accident to determine fault and gather evidence.
Negotiate with insurance companies.
Represent you in court if a settlement cannot be reached.
Advise you on the legal process and your rights as a victim.

Truck accident lawyers are skilled at navigating the unique regulations and challenges associated with commercial vehicle accidents, making them invaluable resources for victims.

A Washington, D.C. Truck Accident Lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Will Assist You After a Collision

Contact a Washington, D.C. truck accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King to discuss your case and learn how we can assist you in this challenging time. Call 202-331-1963 or complete our online form for a free consultation. Located in Washington, D.C., National Harbor, Maryland, and Falls Church, Virginia, we serve 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.