Commercial Vehicle Accidents: What to Do If You Have Been Hurt by A Commercial Vehicle in South Jersey

It’s happened to each and every one of us who have climbed behind the wheel of our car and driven on the highway: A commercial vehicle is suddenly barreling down on us in our rear view mirror and there’s an unmistakable feeling of panic and helplessness – and for good reason. With the average commercial commercial vehicle weighing at least three times what a passenger car does, a regular car stands little chance against one of these giants. There are approximately 500,000 commercial vehicle accidents that take place in the United States every year, and approximately 5,000 of these tragically end in fatalities – and usually to those who are in the passenger vehicles. If you or someone you love has been hurt by a commercial vehicle in South Jersey, you need knowledgeable, experienced legal help. The attorneys of Wallace Law have successfully pursued legal action against many commercial drivers and owners of commercial vehicles on behalf of our clients who were injured as a result of negligence. We can help you too.

There are many types of commercial vehicles, and many reasons why commercial vehicle accidents occur.  Among the most common causes of accidents are drivers who are driving while intoxicated or under the influence. Others are driving too fast or recklessly, while still others are distracted by the use of their cell phone, GPS or other electronic devices.  These are just a few examples of negligence on the part of a commercial driver. Other examples include:

• Driver fatigue
• Improper maintenance of the vehicle
• Improper loading of freight
• Hazardous roads
• Aggressive driving
• Tire blowouts

When a commercial vehicle gets into an accident with a smaller passenger car, it can cause serious and catastrophic injuries, not only because they are so much bigger but also because of the force that a heavier vehicle carries when traveling at a high rate of speed. Passenger car occupants who are injured in commercial truck accidents often suffer burns, lost limbs, traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury. These can often lead to death – in fact, 98 percent of all two-vehicle collisions involving a semi truck result in at least one fatality, and for every 100 million miles driven on U.S highways by vehicles of all kinds there are 2.3 deaths and 60.5 injuries caused by 18-wheel trucks.

Because the overwhelming majority of commercial truck accidents are caused or exacerbated by some sort of error, it is important that you have the assistance of an experienced commercial truck accident lawyer in determining whether such was the case in your accident. If negligence contributed to your injuries, you may be eligible for compensation for the damages you’ve suffered. Call the South Jersey law firm of Wallace Law today to set up a convenient appointment to discuss what happened to you.

Learn more about Commercial Vehicle Accidents HERE.