Truck drivers have an enormous responsibility. With loaded rigs weighing up to 40 tons, the trucks these drivers operate are massive, difficult to steer, and prone to causing mayhem if not properly controlled. For these reasons, federal and state laws act to regulate the trucking industry, requiring drivers to obtain special licenses, register their cargo and route, and constantly ensure that their rig is in safe working condition. In addition, truck drivers must also follow the rules of the road that apply to all motorists, such as refraining from drunk or distracted driving.
When there is a lapse in judgment, or an oversight on the part of a truck driver, the driver may be held liable in a Maryland personal injury lawsuit. These lawsuits, brought under the theory of negligence, require an accident victim to show that there was some negligent act or omission that caused the accident that resulted in the victim’s injuries. If this is successfully proven, an accident victim may receive compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and any pain and suffering they endured as a result of the accident.
Truck Accident Caused by Sleeping Driver
Earlier this month in North Carolina, 50,000 pounds of potatoes spilled onto the road after a semi-truck driver crashed into a barrier and rolled the truck onto its side. According to one local news source covering the accident, the truck driver was traveling on Interstate 77 at around 2 a.m. when the accident occurred.
Evidently, the truck driver fell asleep while behind the wheel and crashed into the barrier. The initial collision compromised the truck’s stability, and it rolled onto its side, spilling its cargo across the highway. In a post-accident interview with police, the driver admitted to having fallen asleep while driving. He explained that he was fearful to pull off on the side of the road and sleep, since he had heard local law prohibited him from doing so, and he may get a ticket. While no citations had been issued at the time of the article’s publication, it is likely that the truck driver will be cited for causing the accident.
Thankfully, no other motorists were involved in the accident, and the driver’s injuries were minor.
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Truck Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in any kind of Maryland truck accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. Truck drivers are subject to rules and regulations not known by most of the general public. If a driver was in violation of any law at the time of the accident, this may increase your chances of recovery. To learn more about Maryland truck accident cases, and to speak with a dedicated personal injury attorney about your case, call 410-654-3600 to set up a free consultation today.
More Blog Posts:
Case Reversed after Lower Court Allows Jury to Hear Truck Driver Did Not Have Insurance, Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog, published April 20, 2016.
Accident Involving Truck and Minibus Results in 12 Fatalities, Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog, published April 6, 2016.