FMCSA RegulationsProving a Driver Was Distracted in Truck Accidents in Maryland
An experienced Maryland truck accident lawyer will know how to investigate your collision to find out if the driver who hit you was violating one or more of the distracted driving regulations. Your truck accident attorney can:
- Retain an accident reconstruction specialist to reconstruct your crash and make a report on any indications of driver distraction
- Interview witnesses who might have seen signs of distraction
- Gain access to security camera video footage of the truck accident in Maryland
- Check cell phone records that might prove the trucker was talking or texting at the time of the collision
- Access the truck’s electronic data recorder or “black box,” which could show whether the driver was paying complete attention to the road just before the crash
Because the black box will be in the possession of the trucking company and the data likely erased within 30 days, your attorney will send the company a spoliation letter requesting that the black box data and all other evidence relevant to your case be preserved. If any of that evidence shows the trucker was violating the FMCSA regulations, the violation will be considered negligence and help prove the trucker and possibly the employer were responsible for your damages.
Severe Injuries Lead to Larger Settlements
When an 80,000-pound 18-wheeler collides with a 3,500-pound car, the driver and/or passengers in the car can suffer catastrophic injuries. The injuries can include:
- Whiplash and other neck injuries
- Spinal cord injuries/paralysis
- Broken, crushed, or fractured bones
- Concussions/traumatic brain injuries
- Organ damage/internal bleeding
- Burns
- Lacerations/scarring
- Permanent disability requiring lifelong care
- Amputations
- Death
Because settlements for such injuries suffered in truck accidents in Maryland are very expensive for the insurance company, its adjusters and lawyers will try to dispute or devalue your claim and offer you a low award. An experienced Maryland truck accident attorney can:
- Negotiate with the insurance company to get you a fair settlement
- Put a dollar amount on your pain and suffering and evaluate your damages to determine a reasonable award
- Take your case to trial, if necessary
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