Lynn, MA Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck drivers have a responsibility to operate their vehicles with reasonable care. Devastating collisions can result from truck drivers’ careless behavior. Further, harmful accidents can also happen because of trucking companies’ negligence.
Our attorneys will help victims of truck accidents identify who is at fault. Additionally, our team can help plaintiffs recognize the best route to compensation.
The Law Office of John J. Sheehan is prepared to assist victims of truck accidents in Lynn, MA. Speak with our experienced truck accident attorneys today by calling (617) 925-6407. Our lawyers will provide a free review of your claim.
Important Regulations for Commercial Truck Drivers and Trucking Companies in Lynn, MA
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established a multitude of guidelines that commercial truck drivers and trucking companies must follow. Truck accidents repeatedly happen because the following regulations have been violated:
Hours of Service Guidelines
The FMCSA has set forth hours of service guidelines that regulate how long commercial truck drivers can stay on the roads without taking breaks. For example, they cannot remain on duty for more than 60 hours over the course of 7 consecutive days. Truck drivers must also record their on-duty hours in an active log. The experienced truck accident attorneys at our law firm can help determine if your crash happened because hours of service guidelines were not adhered to.
Repair and Maintenance
Trucking companies must also perform regular inspections on their vehicles. If any dangerous conditions are noticed, then they should be tended to in a timely fashion. Injurious crashes may occur because trucking companies fail to perform appropriate maintenance and repairs on their trucks. For instance, accidents may happen because trucks were equipped with overly worn tires. Those who are injured because of such accidents may be reimbursed for the damages they incur.
Cargo Securement
Also, truck drivers and their employers must ensure that cargo transported on their vehicles is properly stored. For instance, items that are stored next to each other must be secured in direct contact with each other to prevent shifting during transit. Further, tiedowns must be in good condition and have appropriate weight ratings. The truck accident attorneys at our firm can help determine if your collision is related to negligent cargo securement. If so, our team will fight to hold the at-fault party responsible for the harm they caused.
What is the Purpose of Trucking Regulations in Lynn, MA?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has set forth commercial trucking regulations in order to reduce harmful crashes and collisions. Specifically, these regulations focus on the following:
- Increasing safety awareness
- Improving operating standards
- Improving safety technology
- Targeting high-risk trucking companies and drivers
Our truck accident attorneys can help victims determine if their accidents occurred because safety guidelines were violated.
What Are The Requirements for Becoming a Commercial Truck Driver in Lynn, MA?
There are specific requirements for becoming a commercial truck driver. These requirements are designed to keep dangerous drivers off the road. For example, operators must:
- Be at least 18 years old, or a minimum of 21 years old if driving across state lines or transporting dangerous materials
- Possess a non-commercial, valid driver’s license
- Have at least a year of driving experience
- Not have any suspensions
- Possess a valid medical examiner’s certificate
Still, these requirements are often altered and updated. After an accident, our experienced truck accident attorneys can help determine if an at-fault driver should not have been on the road.
Can You Sue for Your Truck Accident Injuries in Lynn, MA?
You may be able to sue for your truck accident injuries. However, because of Massachusetts’ no-fault car insurance rules, some victims are obliged to pursue benefits from their own insurers. Truck accident lawsuits may only be filed in specific situations. For instance, those who suffered severe injuries because of their collisions may be able to recover compensation from negligent truck drivers. Furthermore, pedestrians and motorcycle riders may also sue for truck accident injuries in Lynn, MA. Our experienced truck accident attorneys can help review your potential case and determine how you should proceed.
Examples of Negligent Actions Committed by Truck Drivers in Lynn, MA
Truck drivers regularly cause crashes through their negligent actions. The following are common examples of careless and reckless conduct exhibited by drivers of large trucks in Lynn, MA:
Failing to Yield the Right-of-Way
A great number of truck accidents happen because truck drivers do not yield the right-of-way. For example, a driver of a large truck may cause an accident by improperly merging on a highway. Furthermore, an accident may occur because a truck’s operator attempted an illegal left turn at an intersection.
Travelling at Excessive Speeds
Many crashes involving large trucks happen because their drivers were travelling at excessive speeds. When speeding, trucks become very hard to handle. Accordingly, operators who drive at high speeds tend to veer outside of their lanes. Furthermore, seeding truck drivers will have trouble reacting if vehicles in front of them slow down or stop.
Improperly Storing Cargo
Also, truck drivers may cause accidents by improperly storing their cargo. When cargo is allowed to shift during transit, catastrophic rollover accidents and jackknife accidents may occur. People who are hurt as a result of such accidents may consult with our truck accident attorneys to evaluate their legal options.
Running Yellow and Red Lights
Truck drivers also cause collisions by running yellow and red lights. This form of negligent behavior can cause head-on collisions and side impacts with other cars and pedestrians using intersections. If you suffered an injury because a truck driver ran a yellow or red light, then you should call our law firm immediately. Our team will help fight for monetary damages.
If You Wish to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Lynn, MA, Our Lawyers Can Help
Those injured because of crashes with large trucks should reach out to our truck accident attorneys for support and guidance. Call (617) 925-6407 today for a free assessment of your claim.
