Trucks and other commercial vehicles are an important part of Auburn-Lewiston’s economy. However, these large trucks can be dangerous if not operated with proper care.
Collisions involving tractor-trailers happen fast and can come out of nowhere. When you or a loved one is injured in a truck wreck, it is challenging to navigate the incident and identify the at-fault party.
A dedicated lawyer can help you understand the common causes of truck accidents in Auburn and how the specific factors in your case may impact the type of compensation you may be able to receive. Call our team of hardworking semi-truck crash attorneys at Gideon Asen, LLC today for more information.
Common Causes of Truck Collisions
Accidents involving trucks can come from numerous types of situations. The most common causes of tractor-trailer wrecks in Auburn include:
- Distracted driving, such as texting or eating
- Overworked or fatigued truck drivers
- Truckers speeding in an attempt to make up time on a route
- Truckers oversteering or understeering, leading to a jackknife or rollover
- A trucking company failing to adequately train drivers or have appropriate safety protocols
- A trucking company implementing policies that incentivize the driver to operate the vehicle in a reckless manner
- A truck being improperly serviced, repaired, or maintained
Each of these factors can contribute to an 18-wheeler crash and may require different evidence to obtain compensation for damages and losses. In addition, multiple parties or entities may be responsible for the collision.
A seasoned personal injury lawyer who is experienced in trucking accidents can advise injured people on the best course of action for their case and how it will impact their recovery.
What if an Injured Person Is Partially at Fault?
The at-fault party is not always clear following a wreck. Even if a commercial vehicle collision in Auburn-Lewiston stems from one of the common causes mentioned above, it could involve several other factors.
Sometimes, the injured party plays a role in the crash as well. For instance, a trucker may have been texting, but the injured driver may have failed to check their blind spot before merging.
The state’s legislature has addressed this situation by passing 14 Maine Revised Statutes § 156. This law provides that an injured person may still recover from an accident, even if they are partially liable, so long as their degree of fault is less than the other driver’s.
If the injured driver is 49% responsible for the wreck or less, they can still receive compensation for their injuries. However, the amount they recover will be reduced by their own percentage of fault for their role in the crash.
Discuss The Common Causes of Auburn Truck Accidents With a Knowledgeable Attorney
Collisions involving tractor-trailers are serious events that can lead to catastrophic injuries and property damage. Compensation may be available in some scenarios, but the injured party must prove that the trucker is at fault for the wreck, which can be challenging to do on your own.
A compassionate lawyer who has handled cases like yours can help identify the cause of your crash and the liable party, enabling you to receive a monetary payout for your damages and losses.
Call our team at Gideon Asen, LLC today to learn more about the common causes of truck accidents in Auburn and how we can help you recover for your injuries.
