Washington D.C. Truck Accident Attorneys

Results-Oriented Representation for Truck Accident Victims in the DC Metro Area

Truck accidents tend to be far more frightening than other vehicular accidents. These gargantuan vehicles tend to dwarf traditional cars and can cause horrific destruction in the event of a collision.

You should also understand that liability in a truck accident may not be as straightforward as in a typical car accident. If you were recently injured in an accident involving a commercial truck, you need a legal team that understands the intricacies of these cases and has the skills and resources to effectively represent you. At Rowe, Weinstein & Sohn, PLLC, our Washington, D.C. truck accident lawyers are aggressive litigators who can identify all potential sources of liability and fight to secure just compensation. With hundreds of millions of dollars recovered for our clients, our track record of success is undeniable, and we are ready to put our over 100 years of combined legal experience to work for you. 

Do not wait to get legal advice after a truck accident. We are here for you during this difficult time, so schedule a free initial consultation today by contacting us online or calling (301) 450-5742. 

Common Causes of Washington, D.C. Truck Accidents

Understanding what specifically caused your truck accident is paramount to recovering compensation for your injuries. Our Washington, D.C. truck accident attorneys understand how to investigate these collisions and ascertain the true cause of the collision, which allows us to establish liability and build a foundation for your personal injury claim. 

Many Washington, D.C. truck accidents are caused by:

• Fatigued driving. Fatigued driving is a significant concern in the trucking industry. With demanding schedules and long hours on the road, truck drivers may experience exhaustion, which impairs their ability to operate the vehicle safely. Fatigue can lead to slower reaction times, impaired judgment, and, in some cases, falling asleep behind the wheel. These effects can be disastrous considering the size of a truck, leading to severe or even fatal accidents. Furthermore, to cope with drowsiness, some drivers resort to using stimulants, which can induce over-confidence and risky behavior, thereby increasing the likelihood of accidents.
• Distracted driving. Distracted driving refers to any activity that diverts attention from driving, including talking or texting on a phone, eating and drinking, or adjusting the radio or navigation system. Any non-driving activity a truck driver engages in while behind the wheel is a potential distraction that increases the risk of a crash. Even a single moment's distraction can have dire consequences given the time it takes for a large truck to stop or change direction.
• Speeding. Truck drivers are under immense pressure to deliver their cargo within a specified timeframe. This pressure can lead drivers to exceed the speed limits to make up for any lost time due to traffic, weather conditions, or unanticipated stoppages. In some cases, a driver’s compensation model may even incentivize faster delivery times, compelling them to speed. However, trucks require a longer distance to come to a complete halt compared to smaller vehicles thanks to their massive size and weight. When a truck is traveling at high speeds, the stopping distance increases, making it difficult to avoid collisions. Speeding can also lead to the loss of control over the vehicle, especially when negotiating curves or during unfavorable weather conditions, creating a high-risk scenario for accidents.
• Violating other traffic rules. Truck drivers who disregard traffic regulations pose an enormous risk to themselves and others on the road. One such violation is running red lights or stop signs. Due to the considerable size and weight of trucks, failing to stop when required can result in catastrophic collisions. Yielding violations, which occur when drivers do not yield the right of way to other motorists, are also a common cause of truck accidents. These incidents often occur at intersections and can lead to serious side-impact or "T-bone" collisions. Another common traffic violation is improper lane changes. Given the large blind spots that trucks have, changing lanes without proper signaling and checking blind spots can easily lead to a collision with a smaller vehicle. Similarly, illegal turns, especially right turns without ensuring the path is clear, can cause a truck to collide with a pedestrian or another vehicle.
• Negligent hiring or training. Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring that the drivers they hire are competent, experienced, and adequately trained to handle the large, heavy vehicles they will be operating. Negligent hiring occurs when a trucking company fails to conduct thorough background checks on potential hires, allowing drivers with poor driving records or a history of substance abuse to operate their vehicles. Such drivers are more likely to violate traffic rules, speed, drive while intoxicated, or engage in reckless behavior, making them a liability on the road. Insufficient training is another critical issue. Driving a truck requires specialized skills and knowledge, and new or inexperienced drivers who are not provided with proper training are likely to make mistakes or poor judgment calls while behind the wheel.
• Improper cargo loading. Proper loading of cargo is crucial in maintaining the balance and stability of a truck. However, when cargo is improperly loaded, it can result in the truck becoming unbalanced, which increases the risk of the vehicle tipping over, especially during turns or when navigating uneven road surfaces. Additionally, an unbalanced load can affect the truck's center of gravity and impact the handling and braking ability of the vehicle, making it more difficult for the driver to control the truck during sudden stops or maneuvers.
• Negligent maintenance. Commercial trucks require regular and thorough inspection and maintenance. Failure to properly maintain a truck can result in mechanical failures, which can cause or contribute to serious accidents.

Protect Your Rights After a Truck Accident

Being involved in a truck accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience. It's important to protect your rights and seek legal representation to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Our team of experienced truck accident attorneys at Rowe Weinstein & Sohn is dedicated to providing results-oriented representation for truck accident victims in the DC Metro Area.

When you choose us to represent you, you can expect:

• Thorough investigation of the accident
• Aggressive negotiation with insurance companies
• Expertise in trucking regulations and laws
• Compassionate support and guidance throughout the legal process
• Dedicated advocacy for maximum compensation

Don't wait to seek legal help after a truck accident. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

You have limited time to take legal action after suffering injuries in a truck accident, so call (301) 450-5742 or contact us online today.