Causes Of Truck Accidents

Causes Of Truck Accidents

Virginia Lawyers for Trucking Accident Victims

Truck AccidentsTrucking accidents generally do not happen without reason. Often, there are multiple factors that can be the cause of truck accidents and establish liability on the part of not only the driver, but the trucking company as well. At Hilton & Somer LLC, we have represented victims of trucking accidents and their families since 1965. Whether you were injured in a truck accident or lost a loved one in a fatal crash, we can help. Our experienced personal injury attorneys have the knowledge and resources needed to help recover maximum compensation for injuries, medical bills and more.

Contact us at 703-560-0700 to schedule a free initial consultation. You have a right to seek justice following a truck accident.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents at a Glance

  • Driver fatigue. Federal rules limit interstate truckers to 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty (49 CFR § 395.3), but tight schedules push some drivers past safe limits.
  • Poor maintenance. Worn brakes, bald tires and faulty lights are frequent contributors, and maintenance records often show whether the carrier cut corners.
  • Improper loading. Overloaded or unsecured cargo can cause rollovers, jackknifes and spilled loads.
  • Distraction, speeding and blind spots. Large trucks need far more room to stop and have large blind spots on every side.

Why Did the Accident Happen?

Truck accidents often leave behind a tangled web of tragedy. Through the mess of steel and debris, it can be difficult to determine the exact cause of the accident. That is precisely why we work closely with investigative experts to examine the entire accident scene. Through our efforts, we strive to establish accountability and determine exactly how the injuries or wrongful death occurred. In our investigation of the truck accident, we will find answers to the following questions:
  • Was the driver adequately trained?
  • Was the driver fully alert, attentive and sober?
  • Did the trucking company offer incentives to entice drivers into operating recklessly?
  • Did the truck receive the necessary maintenance?
  • Was the truck loaded properly?

All truck accident cases are handled on a contingency basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless we are successful.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a commercial vehicle, 18-wheeler or semi truck, you deserve a lawyer who will provide personalized and dedicated representation. At Hilton & Somer LLC, we are committed to providing a high level of service to every client. Contact us at 703-560-0700 to discuss your case.

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Areas We Serve

Hilton & Somer is based in Fairfax, Virginia and represents injured clients throughout Northern Virginia, Washington, DC and Maryland, including:

  • Northern Virginia: Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, Springfield, Manassas, Annandale, McLean, Falls Church, Centreville, Leesburg, Fredericksburg and Charlottesville, plus Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, Stafford, Spotsylvania, Fauquier and Culpeper Counties
  • District of Columbia: Washington, DC
  • Maryland: Bethesda, Silver Spring, Oxon Hill and College Park, plus Montgomery, Prince George’s, Anne Arundel, Howard, Frederick and Washington Counties

Truck Accident Causes FAQ

What is the most common cause of truck accidents?

Driver error, including fatigue, distraction, speeding and following too closely, is a leading factor. Equipment failures and improperly loaded cargo also cause many serious crashes.

How do you prove what caused a truck accident?

Electronic logging device records, engine data, maintenance and inspection records, driver qualification files, cargo documents and dashcam video can show why a crash happened, which is why a preservation letter should go out right away.

How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in Virginia?

Most Virginia truck accident injury claims must be filed within two years of the crash. Maryland and Washington, DC generally allow three years.

How much does it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer?

Hilton & Somer handles truck accident cases on a contingency fee basis. You pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you, and the first consultation is free.