Trucking Accidents

What Do Proposed Changes to Trucking Companies’ Requirements for Liability Insurance Mean for Me?

Just like every car on the road, each truck is required to have a minimum amount of liability insurance coverage in case the truck is ever involved in an accident. While one would expect this amount to change over time and adjust with inflation, the current minimum amount for carriers is $750,000, an amount that has not been adjusted in over thirty years.

Medical Costs from a Truck Crash May Exceed the Current Coverage Minimum

Even in accidents involving only passenger vehicles, serious injuries can mean that medical costs skyrocket, especially with the long-term care involved in injuries to the spine, neck, or brain. Trucks are much larger, often weighing up to 80,000 pounds, and are therefore capable of creating much more damage. Truck accidents can often involve several vehicles, which would only increase the amount of liability coverage needed.

Recently, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issued a notice of proposed rulemaking on increasing the minimum coverage amount, and is currently accepting public comment from the industry, drivers, and carriers alike.

The industry is split, with the FMCSA insisting that the $750,000 minimum falls far short of the damages in many crashes. Other organizations claim that the number of crashes exceeding the minimum amount of coverage is actually very small; their other argument is that most carriers already carry liability coverage well above the minimum amount.

This rulemaking can affect you in several ways. If the minimum coverage amount is not increased, you could face serious financial difficulties should you ever be involved in an accident with a truck carrying minimum coverage. On the other hand, an increase in minimum coverage could cover more in the event of an accident, but it could cause companies to cut corners in other ways to pay for increased premiums.

Although we do not yet know how this will play out, one thing is certain. If you are injured in a truck accident caused by a negligent truck driver, you deserve compensation. Our firm’s experience with insurance companies can help ensure that you receive the maximum amount possible for your injuries, pain, and suffering. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation, either by phone or by filling out our online contact form.

How Do I Know if a Truck Driving Near Me is Loaded Improperly?

When you went to the Time Warner Cable Music Pavilion in Southeast Raleigh to see your favorite performer, you knew it was going to a memorable night. Unfortunately, it was unforgettable for all of the wrong reasons. As you drove along Rock Quarry Road, a large truck pulled up next to you. You noticed as it began to sway back and forth and you did what you could to get out of the way — but you weren’t able to get out of the way and the truck crashed right into you. Later, you learned that the accident occurred because the truck was improperly loaded. Knowing the signs of a truck that is loaded incorrectly could prevent you from getting into an accident.

Beware of Trucks with these Dangerous Characteristics

Did you know that the truck next to you is capable of causing you life-threatening injuries, all because the materials it is carrying could be loaded incorrectly? When possible, get away from trucks that display these warning signs:

• Oversized Load Sign. Trucks that are carrying loads that are too wide to actually fit on the bed are often marked with signs that say “Oversized Load.” Although the truck may be clearly labeled, it does not mean it is safe. It could potentially tip over because of the uneven weight distribution.
• Swaying. A truck that has improperly secured cargo in the back or on the bed will often sway back and forth as a result of the weight shift from the load moving around. Such trucks are extremely dangerous as they can roll over and land on you, or the cargo could come off or out of the truck and onto your vehicle.

If you are the victim of a truck accident that was caused by an improperly secured load, you have rights. The attorneys of Maurer Law want to help you protect them. Contact us today to speak with our lawyers to find out how we have helped other Raleigh residents get the compensation they deserve, and how we may be able to do so for you.

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How Can I Prevent Myself from Becoming Involved in a Raleigh Truck Crash Caused by Blind Spots?

How safe do you feel sharing the road with tractor-trailers knowing that the drivers don’t see you all the time — even when you are right next to them? Large trucks have many blind spots, or areas in which the driver is unable to see what is going on around him. When you are in these particular locations, you put yourself in jeopardy. Knowing how to lessen the chances of becoming involved in a Raleigh truck crash could prevent serious injuries.

Stay Out of the “No-Zones”

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has been warning drivers since 1994 to stay out of the “no-zones,” or semi-truck blind spots. When you are in a blind spot the driver cannot see you and could crash into you as a result. Blind spots typically occur immediately in front of the truck, in the back of the truck, just below and behind the driver side window, and on the right side of the cab extending back towards the end of the trailer. Although it isn’t always possible to stay out of these areas, doing so when you can—increases your chances of staying safe.

Be Aware of Drivers’ Actions

Knowing what actions to look for when riding near a truck may be able to alert you of danger. For instance, if you begin to see the truck coming slowly towards you in your lane, there’s a good chance the driver doesn’t see you and thinks the space in which you are driving is empty. Move immediately away, if possible. Additionally, when trucks make right turns, they first swing out towards the left in order to get around the bend. Stay away from the side of the truck as this occurs, because you could become crushed by the side of the truck.

Contact Maurer Law if you’ve been injured in a Raleigh truck crash. We may be able to help you receive the compensation you deserve. We also encourage you to “Like” us on Facebook to receive even more informative updates!

What Are Common Injuries Suffered as a Result of Raleigh Truck Accidents?

In car vs. truck collisions, the bigger vehicle typically wins. Most smaller vehicles don’t stand a chance against the sheer mass of a truck, and the drivers often pay the price. As you can probably imagine, those who are involved in Raleigh truck accidents typically suffer from painful and life-changing injuries. Here, we look at a few.

Back and Neck Injuries

Sprains, strains, spinal fractures, torn or ruptured discs, and dislocations in the back and neck are all common problems associated with accident involvement. Your back and neck are aggressively and forcefully moved around when in a collision, which can lead to crippling pain and severe disabilities.

Head Injuries

The head is extremely vulnerable to becoming injured in an accident. It can strike almost any surface or object in a vehicle, and suffer from concussions, lacerations, and traumatic brain injuries as a result.

Broken Bones

Due to the amount of force that occurs in truck accidents, victims often experience broken bones. The legs and arms are typically at risk, however, the back and neck can also experience fractures and breaks because of the impact.

Internal Injuries

Some of the most serious issues are those that are unseen. Victims can experience damage to their internal organs because of the seat belt, the steering wheel, pieces of the vehicle, or the truck itself.

Burns

Vehicle fires can cause those inside to suffer from devastating burns, and unfortunately, they are very common. In fact, vehicle fire is the leading cause of burns in truck accident victims.

Along with dealing with the pain and life adjustment because of the accident, you may also lose time away from work and lost wages, which isn’t fair. The attorneys of Maurer Law have helped many victims of Raleigh truck accidents receive the compensation they deserve. Contact us today to see if we can help you.

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What Damages Can I Seek after a Raleigh Truck Accident?

You were driving on the Raleigh Beltline when traffic suddenly came to a halt. You were far enough behind the vehicle in front of you that you were able to stop before colliding with its bumper. The truck behind you, however, was not—and crashed into you. The back of your vehicle became a crumpled mess, and you were left with severe injuries. As the victim of a Raleigh truck accident, you have a right to seek damages. Here, attorney Mike Maurer discusses some of the economic damages you can seek.

Current Medical Expenses

You can seek fees associated with emergency room exams, surgery, hospital care, assistive devices, and appointments with approved medical professionals.

Future Medical Expenses

If your injuries are severe enough that they will cause future medical expenses, you may be able to receive compensation for what you’ll eventually spend.

Lost Wages

Your injuries may prevent you from being able to work, either temporarily or permanently. You could receive the lost wages you were expected to earn between the time of injury and the conclusion of the lawsuit.

Loss of Earning Capacity

If you can demonstrate that your ability to earn a living has been negatively impacted because of your injuries, you may be able to receive the money you would have earned if you were not involved in the accident.

Being injured in a truck accident can take a severe toll on you, but receiving compensation can help take some of the stress away.

We invite you to contact Maurer Law to find out how we can help you.

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