North Carolina Injury Law Offices

North Carolina Truck Accident Lawyer

The prevalence of tractor trailer trucks on the nation’s roadways has increased over the years making highway travel more dangerous for drivers of passenger cars and light trucks than ever before. North Carolina truck accident lawyers know all too well the statistics associated with tractor trailer accidents involving passenger cars and trucks or pedestrians. According to reports, approximately 11 percent of automobile related fatalities in North Carolina involve a tractor trailer truck. Because of the sheer size of tractor trailer trucks and their inability to quickly reduce their speed, collisions between passenger cars and trucks or pedestrians often have fatal consequences.

While the trucking industry is governed by both state and federal regulations, many tractor trailer drivers and the companies with whom they are employed willfully and knowingly break the law. The distressing fact is that these companies and their drivers are more concerned with making money than they are with the safety and welfare of others on the highways.

Not only do tractor trailer drivers and their employers have an obligation and responsibility to adhere to industry standards and regulations, but truck and component manufacturers have a responsibility to design and produce safe products. When these standards and regulations are not followed, truck accidents can result. In situations such as these, a North Carolina truck accident lawyer can be of invaluable assistance.

Tractor trailer accidents can occur for a number of reasons, and these reasons include but are not limited to:

• Driver negligence
• Driver fatigue
• Criminal behavior
• Defective equipment

Tractor trailer drivers may violate commercial trucking regulations by speeding, taking illegal drugs, concealing long hours by maintaining duplicate log books, or driving without proper certification. Lost time generally equal lost profit for many tractor trailer drivers; therefore, there is an incentive for these drivers to violate the law and drive long periods without submitting to mandatory rest periods. Employers are responsible for ensuring that their drivers are properly certified, maintain acceptable driving records, and have adequate insurance.

Tractor trailer accidents can also result from brake failure, tire separation, unsecured cargo, or overall unsafe driving practices. When trucking regulations are violated, the victims of tractor trailer accidents can file a personal injury claim with the help of an experienced North Carolina attorney.

Tractor trailer accident victims may be unable to work and may require extensive medical treatment because of their injuries. Truck accident attorneys will work tirelessly to ensure that these victims receive the compensation to which they are entitled from those responsible for their injuries. A seasoned and practiced North Carolina truck accident lawyer can provide expert legal guidance and sound legal counsel to victims of tractor trailer accidents. Whether the case is settled through negotiation or litigation, a skilled truck accident attorney will diligently fight for the victim’s rights and ensure that those responsible for the accident are held accountable.