What You Need to Know About Truck Accident Law in Connecticut
Truck accidents are complicated due to the various laws and regulations that govern the trucking industry. If you were injured in an accident or crash with a large truck, learning about truck accident law and retaining a Connecticut trucking accidents lawyer is the best strategy for recovering compensation.
Connecticut and Federal Government Establishes Truck Accident Law
Both state and federal law regulate trucks, truck operators, trucking companies, and related entities. The two agencies with primary authority over the truck industry are the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles – Commercial Vehicle Safety Division. Together, these agencies established specific rules and regulations, including:
- Obtaining proper credentials for Commercial Driver Licenses (CDLs);
- Hours of Service, which refers to the amount of time an operator is allowed to drive without resting;
Maximum weight requirements that are based upon the size of the semi truck and its cargo; - Quality control in the manufacturing, maintenance, inspections, and repairs regarding the truck; and,
- Many other requirements.
Semi Truck Accident Law and Liability Issues
When a driver of any vehicle is negligent, and this carelessness causes injuries to others, victims can potentially recover compensation for their losses. If you were involved in a truck accident because the truck operator, a trucking company, or an associated entity didn’t comply with federal or Connecticut truck accident law, this could be an indication of negligence. Correspondingly, other examples that point to negligence include such situations as:
- Drunk or drugged driving;
- Drowsy driving, even when the operator complied with hours of service;
- Distracted driving and using a cell phone;
- Speeding or other violations of Connecticut law;
- Taking curves too quickly;
- Failure to inspect, maintain, or repair the semi truck;
- Overloading or improperly loading cargo;
- Failing to hire and train the truck operator properly;
- Defects in manufacturing or design of the semi; and,
- Other factors that indicate carelessness or recklessness.
Recovering Compensation for Your Losses
If you are successful in establishing negligence, Connecticut truck accident law allows you to obtain monetary compensation for your losses, including:
- Economic damages, such as medical costs and lost wages; and,
- Non-economic damages, for your pain and suffering, emotional distress, diminished quality of life, and other losses.
Schedule a Consultation with a Knowledgeable Connecticut Trucking Accident Lawyer
Trucking accidents are complicated, due to the extensive laws and regulations that govern the trucking industry. For this reason, you need a skilled trucking accidents attorney on your side to help you navigate the claims process. You are entitled to compensation for your injuries, so please contact StangerLaw LLC to schedule a case assessment at our West Hartford, CT office.
