Understanding Accidents With Delivery Trucks
Delivery trucks are a common sight on roadways and highways across the Commonwealth of Virginia. These specialized commercial trucks offer a convenient way to transport goods and services to consumers and businesses. However, as a result of their large weights and massive loads being transported, these delivery trucks often expose other automobiles and road users to road mishaps, traffic accidents, and other hazards.
If you’re involved in an accident with a delivery truck, it’s natural to feel frustrated—or even completely overwhelmed. During this time, it’s important to understand that you may be entitled to pursue financial compensation. That’s where we come in.
At Blaszkow Legal, PLLC, we are ready to support and represent clients in their delivery truck accident cases. Our Virginia personal injury attorneys can investigate your case details, seek to identify the liable party, and help you recover your rightful damages. We’re proud to serve clients across Alexandria, Fairfax, Manassas, Arlington, and Woodbridge, Virginia.
Federal and Virginia State Commercial Trucking Laws
It’s important to have a basic understanding of the laws, rules, and regulations affecting truck drivers and trucking in the Commonwealth of Virginia:
Truck drivers must have the necessary licenses and permits, such as a commercial driver’s license (CDL), in order to operate a truck.
All trailers, trucks, separate vehicles, and semi-trailers attached to a towing vehicle must have their own brake controlled by the driver.
All trucks must feature a functioning factory-installed exhaust system, horn, wipers, fire extinguisher, windshields, and the necessary lamps and lights.
Commercial trucks are limited to a maximum length of 40 feet and a maximum width of 102 inches.
Intrastate truck drivers must not drive for more than 12 total hours after 10 consecutive hours off-duty.
Truck drivers are prohibited from driving after spending 70 hours on duty over seven consecutive days or 80 hours over eight consecutive days.
Trucks, trailers, and semi-trailers operating in the state must be inspected regularly by a certified mechanic at an official Virginia inspection station.
Any driver or trucking company that violates federal and state trucking laws and regulations or causes an accident may be subject to penalties, driver’s license suspension, and operating certificate revocation.
Common Reasons for Delivery Truck Accidents
Some common reasons for delivery truck accidents include:
Improperly secured loads
Failure to engage the parking brake
Backing up
Sudden left turn
Sudden stop
Mechanical failure
Distracted driving
Inadequate training
Safety violations
If you or someone close to you was involved in a delivery truck accident, you need to reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney right away. Your legal counsel can review all of the facts of your case and help identify the liable party.
Who May Be Liable for a Delivery Truck Accident?
Based on the surrounding circumstances and events leading to the delivery truck accident, a number of different parties or entities may be held liable. These could include:
The driver of the delivery truck
Equipment and parts manufacturers
The trucking company
Maintenance personnel or company
The truck manufacturers
The cargo loaders (the persons who shipped or loaded the cargo)
The loading company (the company that ensures that containers or equipment are secured and balanced appropriately)
Government agencies who failed to maintain or repair damaged roads
A dedicated Virginia truck accident attorney can walk you through the claims process, help determine the responsible party or parties, and recover reasonable financial compensation to help you move forward during this difficult time.
Commercial Truck Accident Claims Process
Generally speaking, here are the steps involved in filing a commercial truck accident claim. You’ll want to have an attorney by your side to guide you through these steps:
Conduct a thorough investigation to determine how the accident occurred.
Determine the magnitude of your injuries, damages, and losses.
Gathering substantial evidence and documentation to prove fault and establish liability.
Identify the liable party for the delivery truck accident or your injuries.
File the truck accident claim or injury demand letter and submit supporting documentation and evidence.
Communicate with the insurance carrier.
Negotiate a settlement with the insurance providers involved.
File a truck accident lawsuit or wrongful death lawsuit if necessary.
A seasoned lawyer can help you navigate the claims procedures and represent you effectively at every phase of the legal process.
Contact Us for Experienced Representation
Getting injured or losing a family member to a negligent truck accident is a burden no one should have to bear alone. At Blaszkow Legal, PLLC, we’re ready to help you hold those responsible for your injuries, losses, and damages accountable. We can guide you through the complex procedures involved in filing delivery truck accident claims. Ultimately, we will fight for your rights and help you pursue the financial justice you deserve.
Contact us at Blaszkow Legal, PLLC to schedule a simple case assessment with knowledgeable and compassionate personal injury attorneys. We proudly represent clients throughout Alexandria, Fairfax, Manassas, Arlington, Woodbridge, and the rest of Virginia.