Collisions between commercial trucks and passenger cars can have catastrophic consequences. The difference in size between the two vehicles can often result in deadly consequences for the driver of the passenger vehicle. Collisions involving serious personal injuries are far more common than fatal crashes and can have life-changing impacts on the victims.
Despite major advancements in vehicle safety technology, large truck accidents are on the rise. In fact, the number of truck crashes has increased by more than 40% since 2009 according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. These collisions represent a major threat to the safety of New Hampshire motorists.
If you have sustained injuries in a collision with a commercial truck, you have the right to pursue monetary compensation. These damages could help you recoup your medical expenses and cover your bills while you are out of work. To discuss your options with an experienced New Hampshire truck crash attorney, contact the Coates Law Office, PLLC, immediately.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in New Hampshire
While federal regulators have made efforts to reduce the number of commercial truck collisions, these rule changes have had little effect on the growing crash rate. There are many potential causes for these accidents, but a few factors stand out.
Driver fatigue plays a major role in commercial truck accidents. Commercial truckers face tight deadlines to deliver their cargo. They frequently disregard “hours of operation” rules, driving for more consecutive hours than the law allows. Fatigue increases the likelihood of a crash in ways similar to intoxication.
Alcohol or drug abuse can also play a part in a crash. The number of intoxicated truck operators on the road is difficult to pinpoint, but arrests occur daily across the country. An intoxicated driver behind the wheel of a commercial truck could cause devastating injuries.
Careless driving is also a major factor. Drivers make errors in judgment every day, but these mistakes can have major consequences when they involve a large truck. Driving too fast for conditions of failing to yield the right-of-way is a common cause of car crashes.
Liability in a Truck Crash
To recover monetary damages following an accident, a plaintiff must establish that another party is at fault. Typically, a truck crash results from the negligent driving of the truck operator. From driving too fast to fatigued driving, any careless or reckless act by the trucker could result in a strong injury claim.
Truck operators are often not alone in their liability. In many cases, the truck owner could also face liability for a crash. If the truck driver was an employee operating within the scope of their employment, the trucking company could also be held responsible for any damages. Trucking companies could also face liability over their negligent hiring practices or a failure to properly maintain their vehicles in working order.
Potential Injuries in a Truck Crash in New Hampshire
Truck accident injuries can be devastating for all involved. Due to the mass of the truck and the speed they often travel, the resulting impact can be tremendous. A devastating collision can total vehicles and severely injure their occupants. Some of the common types of injuries stemming from a large truck crash include:
- Neck injuries
- Head injuries
- Broken bone
- Amputations
- Burns
- Tendon and ligament injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Death
Damages Available in a New Hampshire Truck Accident Lawsuit
The physical, emotional, and financial costs of a truck accident can be overwhelming. Injury victims could see medical bills pile up as they recover from their severe injuries. Paying for these bills can be especially difficult if a victim is forced to miss work.
The good news is that a truck accident victim could recover monetary compensation for these damages. When a victim recovers the compensation they deserve, they can rest easy knowing their financial needs will be met as they recover from their injuries. Some common damages sought in a truck crash accident include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Vehicle repair costs
- Pain and suffering
- Disfigurement
- Long-term disability
- Loss of consortium
These are only a few of the damages available in a successful truck accident claim. An experienced truck accident attorney in New Hampshire can guide you on the full range of compensation that might be available in your case.
How a New Hampshire Truck Accident Attorney Could Help
If you suffered an injury in a New Hampshire truck crash, the at-fault party should face liability for your damages. To hold them accountable and obtain the compensation you deserve, you could use the guidance of a skilled New Hampshire truck accident lawyer. If you need guidance on what steps to take after a truck accident in New Hampshire, reach out to the Coates Law Office, PLLC.