
Key Takeaways: Navigating a Maryland Truck Accident Claim
- Truck accident claims in Maryland involve unique complexities due to federal regulations (FMCSRs) and multiple liable parties, distinct from typical car accidents.
- Critical evidence preservation immediately post-accident is paramount, including electronic logging device (ELD) data, black box recordings, and driver logs.
- The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Maryland is generally three years from the date of the accident, making swift action essential.
- Victims may seek compensation for extensive damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage, often significantly higher than car accident claims.
- Working with a knowledgeable Maryland truck accident attorney is crucial to effectively challenge well-funded trucking companies and their insurers.
Maryland Truck Accident Lawyer: Protecting Your Rights After a Commercial Vehicle Crash
Having practiced law for over two decades in Maryland, I’ve witnessed firsthand the devastating impact a commercial truck accident can have on individuals and families. These incidents are not merely “car accidents” involving larger vehicles; they represent a distinct and far more complex area of personal injury law. When an 80,000-pound tractor-trailer collides with a passenger vehicle, the consequences are almost invariably catastrophic, leading to severe injuries, astronomical medical bills, and profound emotional trauma. The legal landscape governing these events is a labyrinth of state statutes, federal regulations, and powerful corporate interests designed to minimize payouts.
At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we understand that you’re facing an uphill battle against well-funded trucking companies and their insurance carriers. Our approach is built on a foundation of rigorous investigation, a deep understanding of Maryland and federal transportation laws, and an unwavering commitment to securing the full and fair compensation our clients deserve. This comprehensive guide is designed to empower you with the essential knowledge needed to navigate the immediate aftermath and long-term complexities of a Maryland truck accident claim.
The Severe Consequences and High Stakes of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents in Maryland carry exceptionally high stakes due to the disproportionate size and weight of commercial vehicles, leading to severe injuries, substantial financial burdens, and complex liability investigations governed by both state and federal laws.
Unlike collisions involving passenger cars, truck accidents in Maryland often result in life-altering injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, multiple fractures, internal organ damage, and even wrongful death. The sheer force of impact from a fully loaded commercial truck can obliterate smaller vehicles, leaving victims with chronic pain, permanent disabilities, and an inability to return to their previous quality of life or work. The economic repercussions are equally devastating, encompassing massive medical bills, ongoing rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and a diminished earning capacity for years to come. Recognizing these severe outcomes, Maryland law, particularly under the Maryland Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article, provides pathways for victims to seek comprehensive damages.
The legal complexity stems from the multiple parties potentially liable beyond just the truck driver. This can include the trucking company, the truck owner, the cargo loader, the vehicle manufacturer, and even third-party maintenance providers. Each entity operates under a web of responsibilities, compounded by stringent federal regulations. For instance, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs), enforced by the FMCSA, govern everything from driver hours of service (49 CFR Part 395) and vehicle maintenance (49 CFR Part 396) to drug and alcohol testing (49 CFR Part 382). Violations of these regulations can be a critical factor in establishing negligence. Navigating these intricate regulations and identifying all responsible parties requires a seasoned understanding of both Maryland’s tort law and federal trucking statutes.
Furthermore, trucking companies and their insurers are formidable opponents. They often dispatch rapid response teams to the accident scene to gather evidence favorable to their defense, sometimes before victims even have a chance to process what occurred. Their objective is clear: to minimize their financial exposure. This aggressive defense underscores the necessity of having equally determined and knowledgeable legal representation to protect your interests from the outset.
Navigating the Legal Process After a Maryland Truck Accident
The legal process following a Maryland truck accident typically involves immediate evidence preservation, thorough investigation of all potentially liable parties and federal regulations, and strategic negotiations or litigation within the Maryland Circuit Courts to pursue full compensation.
The journey after a commercial truck accident in Maryland is multi-faceted, requiring meticulous attention to detail at every stage. From my experience, the initial steps are often the most crucial for preserving the integrity of your claim.
- Immediate Actions Post-Accident: Your safety and well-being are paramount. Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries don’t seem severe. Contact law enforcement to ensure an official accident report is filed, which can be invaluable evidence. If possible and safe, document the scene with photos and videos, capturing vehicle positions, road conditions, debris, and any visible injuries. Do not make statements to the trucking company’s representatives or insurance adjusters without first consulting with an attorney.
- Evidence Preservation and Investigation: This is where truck accident claims diverge significantly from car accidents. Beyond typical evidence like police reports and witness statements, a comprehensive investigation involves:
- Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Data: Records driver hours of service, speed, and braking.
- Black Box Data: Modern trucks have event data recorders (EDRs) that capture pre-crash data.
- Driver Qualification Files: Includes drug and alcohol test results, medical certifications, and driving history.
- Maintenance Records: Reveals if the truck was properly maintained.
- Cargo Loading Manifests: Important if shifting cargo contributed to the accident.
- Fleet Safety Records: To uncover any history of violations or negligence by the trucking company.
A Maryland truck accident lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can issue spoliation letters to trucking companies, legally compelling them to preserve this critical evidence, which they might otherwise attempt to destroy or alter. We also work with accident reconstructionists and other experts to analyze the scene and determine fault.
- Identifying Responsible Parties: As mentioned, liability can extend beyond the driver. The trucking company, freight broker, cargo loader, vehicle manufacturer, and maintenance providers can all share culpability. Establishing who is liable is key to identifying appropriate insurance policies and securing adequate compensation. Our firm diligently investigates every potential avenue of liability.
- Navigating Agencies and Courts:
- Maryland State Police: Often the primary agency investigating serious truck accidents, their reports are foundational.
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): While not directly involved in individual civil claims, their regulations are central to proving negligence. Investigations by the FMCSA or National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) for major incidents can provide crucial insights.
- Maryland Circuit Courts: These are the primary courts where personal injury lawsuits stemming from truck accidents are filed in Maryland. The process involves discovery (exchanging information), depositions (sworn testimony), mediation, and potentially a trial.
- Maryland Court of Special Appeals: In cases where a party disputes the outcome of a Circuit Court decision, an appeal may be filed here.
- Negotiation and Litigation: Once evidence is compiled, a demand letter is typically sent to the at-fault parties’ insurance companies. Many cases are settled through negotiation. However, if settlement offers are inadequate, our seasoned attorneys are prepared to file a lawsuit and proceed to trial in the Maryland Circuit Courts to advocate fiercely for your rights.
The SRIS Commercial Truck Accident Claims Navigator Tool
The SRIS Commercial Truck Accident Claims Navigator is a practical, step-by-step guide designed to help victims understand the immediate actions necessary after a Maryland truck accident and prepare for the complex legal journey ahead.
Following a traumatic truck accident, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. “The SRIS Commercial Truck Accident Claims Navigator” is a structured framework developed from years of experience handling these intricate cases. It’s designed to provide a clear pathway, helping you prioritize crucial steps and gather the essential information needed to build a strong claim. Think of it as your first line of defense against the trucking companies’ efforts to undermine your case.
Here’s how to use the SRIS Commercial Truck Accident Claims Navigator:
- Immediate Safety & Medical Attention (Within Minutes/Hours):
- Step 1: Prioritize Safety. Move to a safe location away from traffic if possible. Activate your hazard lights.
- Step 2: Call 911 Immediately. Report the accident, injuries, and location. Ensure police and emergency medical services are dispatched.
- Step 3: Seek Medical Evaluation. Even if you feel fine, accept medical examination at the scene or go to the nearest emergency room. Some injuries manifest later. Document all medical care received.
- On-Scene Documentation & Information Gathering (Within Hours):
- Step 4: Do NOT Admit Fault. Avoid making statements that could be construed as admitting fault, even casually apologizing. Stick to factual observations.
- Step 5: Exchange Information. Get the truck driver’s name, contact info, trucking company name, truck number, license plate, and insurance details.
- Step 6: Gather Witness Information. Collect names and contact details of any bystanders who witnessed the accident.
- Step 7: Document the Scene. Use your phone to take extensive photos and videos of:
- All vehicles involved (damage, position, license plates).
- Road conditions, traffic signals, skid marks, debris.
- Surrounding environment (landmarks, signs).
- Visible injuries.
- Step 8: Do NOT Discuss with Trucking Company/Insurer. Decline to give recorded statements or sign anything from the trucking company’s representatives or their insurance adjusters. Redirect them to your attorney.
- Post-Scene Actions & Legal Engagement (Within Days):
- Step 9: Consult a Maryland Truck Accident Lawyer. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. as soon as possible. Early engagement allows us to:
- Send spoliation letters to preserve crucial evidence (ELD data, black box, driver logs).
- Initiate a prompt investigation.
- Advise you on all communication.
- Step 10: Follow All Medical Advice. Adhere strictly to your doctors’ instructions, attend all appointments, and keep detailed records of your treatment.
- Step 11: Document Damages. Keep records of all medical bills, lost wages, receipts for accident-related expenses, and notes on your pain and suffering and how the injuries impact your daily life.
- Step 12: Avoid Social Media Pitfalls. Refrain from posting about your accident, injuries, or recovery on social media, as these posts can be used against you.
- Step 9: Consult a Maryland Truck Accident Lawyer. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. as soon as possible. Early engagement allows us to:
By following these steps, you are taking proactive measures to protect your rights and strengthen your potential claim. Remember, time is often of the essence in these complex cases.
Effective Legal Strategies and Approaches for Truck Accident Claims
Successful legal strategies in Maryland truck accident claims center on proving negligence through a deep understanding of federal trucking regulations, meticulously documenting damages, and effectively counteracting the aggressive defense tactics employed by trucking companies and their insurers.
When representing clients in Maryland truck accident cases, our approach at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is multifaceted and highly strategic. We understand that every case presents unique challenges, but certain core principles guide our efforts to secure justice for the injured.
- Aggressive Evidence Acquisition and Preservation: Our first priority is to secure all relevant evidence before it can be lost or destroyed. This involves:
- Issuing immediate spoliation letters to compel trucking companies to retain critical data (ELDs, black box, dash cam footage, maintenance logs, drug test results).
- Dispatching investigators to the scene to document conditions, take measurements, and interview witnesses.
- Obtaining the truck driver’s logbooks to check for hours of service violations, a common cause of fatigue-related accidents, regulated by 49 CFR Part 395.
- Investigating the trucking company’s safety record with the FMCSA.
- Thorough Liability Assessment: We meticulously examine every potential angle of liability. Beyond driver negligence (e.g., distracted driving, speeding, impaired driving), we investigate:
- Trucking Company Negligence: Did they fail to properly vet, train, or supervise drivers? Did they encourage drivers to violate hours-of-service rules? Did they neglect vehicle maintenance?
- Vehicle Defects: Was a faulty brake, tire, or other component a factor? This might involve a product liability claim against the manufacturer.
- Cargo Loading Errors: Was the cargo improperly loaded or secured, leading to an imbalance or rollover?
- Third-Party Maintenance Issues: Was the truck poorly maintained by an external garage?
Understanding the interplay between Maryland personal injury law and federal regulations (like those in the Transportation Article of Maryland Code or the FMCSRs) allows us to build a comprehensive case against all negligent parties.
- Comprehensive Damage Valuation: Truck accident injuries are often severe and require extensive, long-term care. We work with medical professionals, economists, and life-care planners to accurately assess the full scope of your damages, including:
- Past and future medical expenses (hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, assistive devices).
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering (physical and emotional).
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
- Property damage.
- In some cases, punitive damages may be sought if the defendant’s conduct was egregious, demonstrating a wanton disregard for safety.
- Strategic Negotiation and Litigation:
- Pre-Litigation Settlement: We engage in robust negotiations with insurance adjusters, presenting an undeniable case supported by compelling evidence and expert testimony.
- Litigation Readiness: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial in the Maryland Circuit Courts. Our attorneys are seasoned litigators, comfortable challenging well-resourced defense teams in the courtroom. We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, which often strengthens our position in negotiations.
- Countering Defenses: Trucking companies often employ strategies like blaming the victim (contributory negligence), minimizing injuries, or arguing that federal preemption limits claims. Our familiarity with Maryland’s strict contributory negligence laws (where if you are even 1% at fault, you cannot recover) means we proactively build a case to demonstrate the truck driver’s sole responsibility.
Our commitment is to leverage our legal knowledge and tactical prowess to hold negligent parties accountable and secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Maryland Truck Accident
Avoiding critical errors after a Maryland truck accident, such as delaying medical care, making statements to insurers, or failing to secure legal counsel promptly, is essential to protect your right to compensation and ensure a successful claim.
The aftermath of a truck accident is a chaotic and stressful time, making it easy to inadvertently make mistakes that can severely jeopardize your personal injury claim. Based on decades of observing these cases, I’ve compiled a list of common pitfalls that victims should strenuously avoid:
- Delaying Medical Attention: Many accident victims, in shock or denial, might feel fine immediately after a collision. However, serious injuries like whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions can have delayed symptoms. Waiting to seek medical care not only risks your health but also allows the defense to argue that your injuries were not caused by the accident or are less severe than claimed. Always seek immediate medical evaluation and follow all prescribed treatments meticulously.
- Speaking to the Trucking Company or Their Insurers Without Legal Counsel: Trucking companies and their insurance adjusters are not on your side. Their primary goal is to limit their liability. They may contact you very quickly, offering a quick settlement or attempting to elicit statements that can be used against you. Do NOT give recorded statements, sign any documents, or accept any settlement offers without first consulting with a Maryland truck accident lawyer. Anything you say can and will be used to devalue your claim.
- Failing to Document the Accident Scene: While immediate medical attention is paramount, if your condition permits, documenting the scene is crucial. Photos and videos of vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signs, and any visible injuries provide invaluable evidence. This documentation can become critical if the scene changes or details become hazy over time.
- Not Notifying Authorities or Getting a Police Report: A formal police report documents key facts, witness information, and sometimes initial fault assessments. Without one, establishing the basic facts of the accident becomes significantly harder, relying solely on conflicting accounts. Always ensure law enforcement is called to the scene.
- Disposing of Damaged Property Prematurely: Your damaged vehicle or other property is often key evidence. Do not repair or dispose of your vehicle until it has been thoroughly inspected by your legal team’s experts, if necessary. Photos are good, but the physical evidence can be even stronger.
- Posting About the Accident on Social Media: Insurance companies frequently monitor social media accounts. Any posts about the accident, your injuries, your activities, or even seemingly unrelated happy moments can be taken out of context and used to challenge the severity of your injuries or the impact on your life. It’s best to avoid discussing your case online entirely.
- Failing to Keep Detailed Records: Keep meticulous records of everything related to your accident: medical bills, treatment plans, prescription receipts, transportation costs for medical appointments, lost wage statements, and a daily journal of your pain levels and how your injuries affect your life. This comprehensive documentation is vital for proving the full extent of your damages.
- Accepting a Quick Settlement Offer: Insurance companies often make low-ball offers early in the process, hoping you’ll accept before fully understanding the long-term impact of your injuries or the true value of your claim. These initial offers rarely cover all future medical costs, lost earning potential, or adequate compensation for pain and suffering.
- Failing to Hire an Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer: Truck accident litigation is a highly specialized field. The laws, regulations, and complexities involved are far beyond those of typical car accidents. Attempting to handle a commercial truck accident claim on your own against well-resourced trucking companies and their legal teams is a significant disadvantage. A knowledgeable Maryland truck accident attorney possesses the specific experience to investigate, negotiate, and litigate these intricate cases effectively.
By being aware of these common missteps and proactively avoiding them, you significantly enhance your ability to secure the just compensation you deserve.
Glossary of Key Truck Accident Terms
Understanding the specialized terminology associated with truck accident claims is vital for victims navigating the complex legal landscape.
- Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV)
- Any self-propelled or towed vehicle used on a highway in interstate commerce to transport passengers or property when the vehicle has a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight rating, or gross vehicle weight or gross combination weight, of 10,001 pounds or more; or is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver); or is transporting hazardous materials requiring placarding.
- Electronic Logging Device (ELD)
- A device that automatically records a driver’s hours of service, location, and vehicle movement, replacing traditional paper logbooks. ELD data is crucial evidence in truck accident cases.
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs)
- A comprehensive set of rules and regulations established by the FMCSA that govern the operation of commercial motor vehicles in the United States, covering aspects like driver qualifications, hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and hazardous materials transportation.
- Hours of Service (HOS)
- Regulations (Part 395 of FMCSRs) that limit the maximum driving time and require minimum off-duty periods for commercial truck drivers to prevent fatigue-related accidents.
- Spoliation Letter
- A legal document sent by an attorney to a party, typically a trucking company, requesting the preservation of all evidence related to an accident, warning against the destruction or alteration of such evidence.
- Black Box (Event Data Recorder – EDR)
- A device in commercial trucks that records critical data moments before, during, and after an accident, such as speed, braking, steering input, and seatbelt usage. This data is invaluable for accident reconstruction.
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
- The maximum operating weight/mass of a vehicle as specified by the manufacturer, including the vehicle’s chassis, body, engine, fuel, accessories, driver, passengers, and cargo but excluding that of any trailers.
Common Scenarios & Questions from Maryland Truck Accident Victims
Maryland truck accident victims often face a myriad of unique challenges and questions concerning liability, evidence, and compensation, necessitating tailored legal guidance for their specific circumstances.
In my years of practice, I’ve encountered numerous variations of truck accident scenarios, each requiring a precise legal strategy. Here are a few common situations and the questions that typically arise:
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Scenario 1: The Rear-End Collision by a Tractor-Trailer on I-95.
“I was driving on I-95 near Baltimore, and a large tractor-trailer suddenly rear-ended my car at high speed. My vehicle is totaled, and I have severe neck and back injuries. The trucking company’s insurance adjuster called me within hours, offering a small settlement to “help cover immediate costs.” What should I do, and how do I prove the truck driver was fatigued?”
Response: This is a classic example of rapid response by the trucking company to minimize their exposure. Do NOT accept any offer or give a statement. Your immediate priority is to seek comprehensive medical evaluation. We would immediately issue a spoliation letter to the trucking company demanding preservation of the driver’s ELD data and logbooks (49 CFR Part 395), which are critical for proving hours of service violations and fatigue. We would also investigate the driver’s record and the company’s compliance history with the FMCSA. Proving fatigue often relies on discrepancies in logs, statements, or evidence of erratic driving leading up to the crash.
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Scenario 2: The Jackknife Accident Caused by Improper Braking.
“A commercial truck in front of me on Route 50 suddenly jackknifed during heavy rain, and I couldn’t avoid colliding with the trailer. I suspect the driver was speeding for the conditions or had faulty brakes. How do I prove negligence, and what if the trucking company blames the weather?”
Response: While weather can be a factor, drivers are obligated to operate safely for conditions. We would secure the truck’s black box data (EDR) to analyze speed, braking patterns, and other vehicle dynamics. Maintenance records (49 CFR Part 396) would be subpoenaed to check for brake system failures or inadequate inspections. An accident reconstructionist might be vital to demonstrate how the jackknife occurred due to driver error or mechanical failure, rather than solely weather. The Maryland Transportation Article outlines duties of drivers to operate safely, even in adverse conditions.
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Scenario 3: Collision with an Unsecured Load.
“A piece of equipment fell off a flatbed truck on I-70, striking my car and causing significant damage and minor injuries. The truck driver kept going. What are my options, especially if I don’t have the trucking company’s details?”
Response: This scenario emphasizes the importance of immediate police involvement to trace the truck. Even if the driver fled, law enforcement might identify them through witness statements, traffic camera footage, or debris left behind. Liability for unsecured loads often extends to the cargo loader and the trucking company, as they are responsible under FMCSRs (specifically Part 393, regarding parts and accessories necessary for safe operation, and general securement principles) to ensure cargo is properly secured. We would assist in identifying the responsible parties and pursue claims against both the driver and the company for negligence in cargo securement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland Truck Accidents
Having clear answers to common questions about Maryland truck accidents can help victims navigate the aftermath and understand their legal options.
Clients often come to us with a range of fundamental questions after a truck accident. Here are some of the most common inquiries I address:
Q1: How is a truck accident different from a regular car accident in Maryland?
A1: Truck accidents involve far more complex legal frameworks, including federal regulations (FMCSRs) governing commercial vehicles, multiple potential liable parties (driver, trucking company, cargo loader, manufacturer), and typically much more severe injuries and higher damages due to the size and weight of trucks. The evidence required is also more extensive, like ELD and black box data.
Q2: What is the statute of limitations for filing a truck accident lawsuit in Maryland?
A2: In Maryland, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those from truck accidents, is generally three years from the date of the accident. For wrongful death claims, it’s also three years from the date of death. It’s crucial not to delay, as valuable evidence can be lost over time.
Q3: What types of compensation can I receive after a Maryland truck accident?
A3: You may be entitled to compensation for economic damages such as medical expenses (past and future), lost wages (past and future), property damage, and out-of-pocket expenses. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life. In rare cases of gross negligence, punitive damages may also be awarded.
Q4: What if I was partially at fault for the truck accident?
A4: Maryland follows the doctrine of contributory negligence. This means if you are found to be even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering any compensation. This makes it crucial to have an attorney who can rigorously defend against any claims of your fault.
Q5: What evidence is crucial in a Maryland truck accident case?
A5: Key evidence includes the police report, photographs/videos of the scene and vehicles, witness statements, medical records and bills, employment records (for lost wages), the truck’s ELD data (hours of service), black box data, driver qualification files, maintenance logs, and trucking company safety records. An attorney will work to preserve and collect all of this.
Q6: Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?
A6: No. You should never give a recorded statement or sign any documents provided by the trucking company’s insurance adjuster without first consulting with your own Maryland truck accident lawyer. Their goal is to protect the trucking company’s interests, not yours, and anything you say can be used against you.
Q7: How long does a truck accident claim typically take in Maryland?
A7: The duration varies significantly depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of injuries, and whether it settles out of court or goes to trial. Simple cases might resolve in months, while complex cases involving severe injuries or multiple liable parties can take years.
Q8: What are Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) and why are they important?
A8: The FMCSRs are federal rules governing interstate commercial trucking. They are vital because a violation of these regulations (e.g., driver fatigue from exceeding hours of service, improper maintenance, or unqualified drivers) can establish negligence on the part of the truck driver or trucking company, strengthening your claim.
Q9: Can I sue the trucking company directly, not just the driver?
A9: Yes, absolutely. Often, the trucking company is a primary defendant. They can be held liable for the actions of their drivers (under respondeat superior) and for their own direct negligence (e.g., negligent hiring, training, supervision, or maintenance). This is a crucial distinction as trucking companies typically carry much larger insurance policies than individual drivers.
Q10: What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?
A10: Even if a truck driver is classified as an “independent contractor,” the trucking company that leased the truck or contracted with the driver can still be held liable under various legal theories, especially given the strict liability and regulations governing interstate commerce. This is a complex area where legal guidance is essential.
Q11: What is a “spoliation letter” and why is it important?
A11: A spoliation letter is a formal legal notice sent by your attorney to the trucking company demanding that they preserve all evidence related to the accident. This is critical because some evidence, like black box data or driver logs, can be overwritten or disappear if not actively preserved. It prevents the destruction of crucial evidence.
Q12: How much does a Maryland truck accident lawyer cost?
A12: Most reputable Maryland truck accident lawyers, including Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any upfront legal fees. The attorney’s fees are a percentage of the compensation recovered, and if no compensation is obtained, you generally owe no attorney fees.
Q13: What should I do if the truck accident was a hit-and-run?
A13: Immediately report the incident to the police. Try to recall any details about the truck (company name, truck type, license plate partial, color). Your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage on your own auto policy may provide coverage for your injuries and damages if the at-fault truck cannot be identified or located.
Q14: Are there specific Maryland laws that apply to truck accidents?
A14: While federal regulations are paramount, Maryland’s own motor vehicle laws (e.g., Maryland Transportation Article), tort law, and rules of civil procedure apply. For example, Maryland’s rules on evidence, damages, and the aforementioned contributory negligence rule are state-specific and must be navigated carefully.
Q15: When should I contact a Maryland truck accident attorney?
A15: You should contact a knowledgeable Maryland truck accident attorney as soon as possible after receiving medical attention. The sooner an attorney is involved, the quicker they can begin preserving critical evidence, initiating investigations, and protecting you from the tactics of the trucking company’s legal team.
Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Today
If you or a loved one has been involved in a commercial truck accident in Maryland, do not face the daunting legal challenges alone. The experienced and knowledgeable Maryland truck accident lawyers at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. are here to provide the authoritative legal guidance and dedicated advocacy you need. We are committed to meticulously investigating your case, navigating the complexities of state and federal trucking laws, and fighting tirelessly to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries and losses. Call us today at 888-437-7747 for a confidential case review. Your recovery and future depend on taking decisive action now.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is not a substitute for consulting with a qualified attorney regarding your specific situation. Laws are subject to change, and their application may vary depending on the facts and circumstances. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. does not guarantee any outcome and past results do not guarantee future results.
