Staten Island Truck Accident Attorney Is Crucial For Injuries in A Truck Accident
If you are involved in a truck accident, the main question will be who is at fault. As easy as the question seems, this question may actually be the hardest part of the case. Not only can the truck driver be considered at fault, but so can several other parties. Because it can be difficult to fully determine fault, it’s best to seek the legal advice of an experienced Staten Island truck accident attorney.
Possible Defendants for a Truck Accident Claim
The truck driver is the most likely party to be blamed for a truck accident. Drivers often get paid by the mile, so they often push themselves over the federal limit in order to make more money. They may forgo breaks or drive longer than they should, which could result in fatigue and drowsiness and, ultimately, an accident. They may also engage in dangerous activities, such as driving under the influence of a substance or speeding.
Although the truck driver plays a direct role in a truck accident, the liability can extend to other parties, especially if their actions partially caused the accident. For example, if a trucking company did not train the truck driver well or was negligent in other ways that caused the accident to happen, it can be held liable. The truck’s owner, the trailer’s owner or the company that leased the truck or trailer can also be at fault.
Manufacturers can be at fault also. A truck has many parts that all need to be in good working order so that the truck can operate effectively and safely. Any one defect can cause a serious truck accident. Accidents can be caused by bald tires, malfunctioning brakes, broken axles or broken straps. If the truck crash was caused by a defective part of the truck, the manufacturer of the part can be held liable. Using a Staten Island truck accident attorney to argue your case often increases your chances of a larger settlement.
Accidents can also be caused by cargo issues. These can occur if the cargo was loaded incorrectly, the trailer was overloaded or the cargo was not properly secured. Any types of negligence in this area can be blamed on the loading company.
In some rare cases, if the truck is carrying hazardous materials, the manufacturer of the materials can be at fault for not properly informing the truck driver of the cargo’s contents. The manufacturer would then be liable for any injuries caused.
Because of all these possible relationships to the truck driver, it will be up to your lawyer to identify relationships between the truck driver and employers and prove that the truck driver was operating under those relationships. It can be a highly complex issue, which is why experience and knowledge of trucking laws are critical. Be sure to find a competent Staten Island truck accident attorney for your case.
Contacting a Staten Island Truck Accident Attorney
A truck accident can be fatal. If the victim does survive, the injuries can be severe or catastrophic. Therefore, it is up to your lawyer to determine liability and ensure that the responsibility party compensates you for any damages caused by the accident. You may be able to receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering. If your loved one died in a truck accident, you may be able to pursue a wrongful death case.
A truck accident case can be very complex due to the various parties who could be held responsible. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with a Staten Island attorney from Gacovino Lake & Associates for a free consultation. They understand the complexities of truck accidents and will work with you to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Call them today at 1-800-246-4878.
