Fatal Truck Accidents in Kearny

Fatal truck accidents can be devastating, leaving families coping with unexpected losses and financial burdens. The size and weight of these vehicles often lead to severe injuries or tragic deaths, altering loved ones’ lives forever. In the aftermath, families may face large medical bills, funeral expenses, and emotional trauma, all while trying to understand their legal rights. Seeking legal help soon after a fatal truck accident is crucial for holding the responsible parties accountable and securing the compensation you need to move forward. Contact our Kearny truck accident lawyer for empathetic, efficient representation today.

Common Causes of Fatal Truck Accidents

Tragically, truck accidents can result in serious injuries or even death due to the massive size and weight of commercial vehicles. While every crash is unique, certain factors often contribute to these catastrophic outcomes. Below are some of the most common causes of fatal truck accidents.

Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers spend long hours on the road, which can lead to exhaustion and slower reaction times. Even short moments of drowsiness behind the wheel put everyone on the road at risk. Strict schedules and tight deadlines can make this problem worse.
Distracted Driving: Taking eyes off the road to check a phone, adjust the radio, or eat can be dangerous under any circumstances, but is even riskier with a large truck. Distracted driving reduces the time drivers have to react to sudden hazards, leading to fatal accidents in some cases.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Trucks must be inspected and serviced regularly to ensure they’re safe for travel. Problems like worn brakes, faulty tires, or neglected engine issues can lead to dangerous accidents on the road.
Overloaded or Improperly Secured Cargo: Carrying more weight than allowed or failing to secure freight correctly causes trucks to become unstable. Unbalanced loads can make the vehicle more prone to rollovers and other serious accidents, sometimes leading to fatalities.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving: Driving too fast or tailgating can drastically increase a truck’s stopping distance. When drivers take unnecessary risks, they have less control over their vehicles, especially in sudden or unexpected traffic situations.
Drug or Alcohol Impairment: Operating a large truck under the influence slows reaction times and impairs judgment. The potential for harm rises dramatically when a driver combines the weight of a commercial vehicle with a lowered ability to respond safely. It’s not unrealistic for this to lead to serious injuries and fatalities.
Dangerous Road and Weather Conditions: Slippery roads, heavy rain, or poor visibility can turn a routine trip into a deadly one. Even the most skilled drivers can face challenges when roads are icy or flooded.

If you lost a loved one in a fatal truck accident, it’s a good idea to speak with a lawyer to determine if you’re entitled to compensation.

Evidence Used to Prove Fault in Fatal Truck Accident Claims

When pursuing a fatal truck accident claim, you must be able to provide evidence to prove that someone else was responsible for the loss of your loved one. Here’s what types are often used in these claims:

Police and Accident Reports: Official accident reports include important details, such as the location of the crash, road conditions, and statements gathered at the scene. They may also include a diagram of how the police officer believes the accident occurred based on their investigation at the scene.
Witness Accounts: Eyewitness accounts can be incredibly important aspects of a fatal accident claim. Most eyewitnesses are unbiased, and this type of objective evidence can help you prove your case.
Truck Driver Logs and Electronic Data: Federal laws require truck drivers to track their hours, routes, and rest periods. Examining these records can reveal whether fatigue, speeding, or other negligence played a part in the collision.
Maintenance and Inspection Records: Trucking companies must keep detailed logs about routine inspections, part replacements, and any repairs. If neglected vehicle upkeep led to a mechanical failure, these records can point to bigger issues within the company’s safety practices and prove that negligence caused the death of your loved one.
Video Footage: Many commercial trucks have dashboard cameras recording the driver’s field of view. Additionally, local traffic cameras or building surveillance may have caught the accident from other angles, adding valuable insight into how the crash happened.

If you lost a loved one in a devastating truck accident, it’s important to work with an experienced Kearny personal injury attorney who can help gather and review this evidence. If you have questions or you’re ready to get started, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.