After a truck accident in New Jersey, it’s easy to point the finger at the truck driver. What if the real cause of the accident runs deeper? Determining liability isn’t always straightforward, so uncovering the truth could be key to your claim. In some cases, the trucking company may be responsible due to improper vehicle maintenance, overloading cargo, negligent hiring, lack of training or overworking drivers. Instead of stressing over the legal process and dealing with a trucking company’s large legal and insurance teams, Mandelbaum Barrett PC is here to help.
Our seasoned lawyers know how complex truck accident cases can be. Trucking companies have a legal duty to ensure their drivers are qualified, their vehicles are safe, and federal regulations are followed. When they cut corners to boost profits, they endanger everyone on the road. With decades of experience handling trucking accident claims in New Jersey, we work to uncover the root causes of crashes and hold negligent companies accountable so you can focus on your recovery.
Understanding When a Trucking Company is Liable for a Truck Accident in New Jersey
Several parties contribute to truck safety, including trucking companies responsible for hiring drivers and other third parties to load trucks and ensure their vehicles are safe to operate per federal and state regulations. Therefore, a trucking company may be liable for an accident in the following circumstances:
Driver Error
Even if the truck driver’s error caused the truck accident, the trucking company may still be responsible for their employee’s actions. As long as the driver was acting in terms of their employment when the accident occurred, we can help you hold the commercial trucking company responsible for your economic and non-economic damages.
Improper Maintenance
Trucking companies must routinely inspect, maintain, and repair their vehicles. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the State of New Jersey have regulations to ensure trucks are safe to operate on public roads. If a trucking company fails to comply with these rules or disregards recommended maintenance, we can help you hold them accountable by gathering evidence, including maintenance records, and building a strong claim.
Overloading or Insecure Cargo
While the truck driver is responsible for checking their cargo load before and throughout their drive, the trucking company may be liable for a crash caused by overloaded or insecure cargo if they fail to enforce regulations, provide proper training, or offer adequate equipment.
Negligent Hiring
In New Jersey, truck drivers must have a Class D driver’s license and a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), pass the New Jersey MVC administered Class A test, and complete the CDL Holder Self-Certification document. If a trucking company hires drivers without these qualifications or with a history of traffic violations, they may be liable for an accident.
Overworking Drivers
According to FMCSA regulations, property-carrying truck drivers cannot drive over 14 consecutive hours after coming on duty but must have at least 10 hours off before driving again. Following 10 hours off duty, drivers can drive no more than 11 hours. They must also take a minimum 30-minute rest break every eight hours. A trucking company may be responsible for an accident if they overwork their drivers and encourage them to ignore these regulations, often leading to fatigue-related crashes.
We understand filing a claim against a commercial trucking company can be overwhelming, but with the help of the trusted lawyers at Mandelbaum Barrett PC, you can fight for your rights. We take your legal burdens off your shoulders, providing comprehensive, personalized services tailored to your unique needs. Our client-focused approach and our commitment to excellence give you the best chance of securing maximum compensation.
Stand Up to Negligent Trucking Companies With the Experienced New Jersey Truck Accident Lawyers at Mandelbaum Barrett PC
Holding trucking companies accountable for negligence isn’t easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our personal injury attorneys have decades of experience handling complex truck accident cases throughout New Jersey. We know how to investigate crashes, uncover violations, and take on powerful trucking companies and their insurers.
With decades of experience handling personal injury claims, our experienced attorneys at Mandelbaum Barrett PC include Certified Civil Trial Attorney Andrew Bronsnick and Co-Chair Joseph J. Peters. Whether your accident was caused by driver fatigue, improper maintenance, or negligent hiring, we are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Call us today at (973) 585-5100 or complete our contact form.