Cargo trucks are responsible for carrying loads of goods or cargo to a variety of businesses. However, these vehicles can pose a threat to other road users if a driving error or vehicle malfunction occurs. If a driver is not fully trained or a vehicle is not maintained correctly, an accident can quickly occur and result in property damage or injury. A cargo truck accident can completely disrupt a person’s life and way of living.
If you were involved in a cargo truck accident, a New Orleans cargo truck accident lawyer can fight for your rights. You should not have to pay for someone else’s mistakes. The physical, emotional, and financial repercussions of a cargo truck accident can turn your life upside down.
Call our team at Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers today at (504) 777-7777 for a free consultation. We can review your claim at no cost to you.
Cargo Trucks Vary in Size and Purpose
Cargo trucks are often used to transport goods in commerce. The type of material a cargo truck might be carrying depends on the type of truck and the company they are working for. For instance, construction companies might use cargo trucks to transport sand, whereas grocery chains may use these vehicles to transport food and other perishables.
Cargo trucks can also vary in shape and size. Some cargo trucks are about the size of a van, while others are the size of semi-trucks.
Cargo trucks can also be used to perform a service. These vehicles might be organized to carry electrical materials, plumbing materials, or construction materials to a job site or workplace. The type of material a cargo truck is carrying can play a role in how severe the cargo truck accident is. The heavier the material, the more momentum a vehicle has in the event of an accident. Also, if the material is flammable or toxic, collisions might cause explosions or chemical spills.
For a free legal consultation with a cargo truck accident lawyer serving New Orleans, call (504) 766-3527
How Cargo Truck Accidents Are Caused
Cargo truck accidents may occur for multiple reasons, such as the driver was distracted while driving or did not properly load their vehicle. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), in 2018, 4,136 people died in large truck accidents. Driving these large vehicles can be difficult. They are heavy and can be awkward to maneuver. A small mistake might lead to a huge disaster.
Other common causes of cargo truck accidents include:
Speeding
Speeding can be especially dangerous when a vehicle is carrying cargo. However, cargo truck drivers are often on a tight schedule and might be rushing to get their work done. Speeding not only risks an accident, but it can also make an accident worse.
Drunk Driving
Drunk driving is dangerous, no matter what vehicle you are driving. Cargo trucks are considered commercial motor vehicles (CMVs), and people who hold commercial driver licenses (CDLs) must adhere to even stricter rules on alcohol consumption. According to the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles, operating a CMV with a blood alcohol concentration level of 0.04 percent or higher is strictly forbidden.
Improper Loading
When cargo is loaded improperly, the cargo truck could be pulled to the side on any turn. A cargo truck might also lose its load if it is not loaded adequately.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving may include driving while texting, talking on the phone, eating, drinking, talking with passengers, looking at an electronic device, changing the radio station, or reaching for an object from behind. Anything that takes your attention off driving or the road can put you at risk of causing an accident.
Fatigued Driving
Cargo drivers often work long hours while driving on the road. Driving while fatigued has numerous risks. If a driver starts to fall asleep while driving, they risk their lives along with the lives of everyone around them.
Inadequate Training
Driving a cargo truck is not for everyone. It can be challenging to maneuver large vehicles, especially when they are carrying extra weight. If a driver is not adequately trained, they might not know how to handle certain situations on the road.
New Orleans Cargo Truck Accident Lawyer Near Me (504) 766-3527
You Must File Your Lawsuit Within the Statute of Limitations
If you are in a vehicle accident, there is a statute of limitations regarding how long you can file your lawsuit. You generally have up to a year after your car accident to file your lawsuit, according to the Louisiana Civil Code (CC) § 3492.
A New Orleans cargo truck accident lawyer can help you gather evidence to support your case. Our team at Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers can help walk you through the process of filing your lawsuit and fight for your rights. Call us today at (504) 777-7777 for a free case evaluation.
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You Might Be Able to Get Compensation for Numerous Damages
If you were injured in a cargo truck accident, you might have incurred several forms of damages. You might be entitled to collect compensation for those damages. A vehicle accident can disrupt your life enough as it is. You do not need the added weight of a financial burden.
Whether you experienced physical, emotional, or financial damages, a lawyer may be able to help you fight for the compensation you need to recover those losses. Compensation may include damages for:
- Medical expenses
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of income
- A decrease in overall salary
Any loss you suffered due to your accident may be considered when determining fair compensation. Speak to a law firm representative today to walk through what other losses you have experienced and what else should be considered.
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How a Cargo Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help
A New Orleans cargo truck accident lawyer can help fight for your rights on your behalf. When a person gets into a vehicle accident, their life can change significantly. Their injuries, along with other damages, can be overwhelming and stressful.
If you were in a cargo truck accident, our team at Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers can help you fight for compensation. Call (504) 777-7777 today for a free consultation. The sooner you call, the sooner we can get started fighting for your rights.
Call or text (504) 766-3527 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
