Commercial trucking accidents in Baltimore, Maryland, are common on major roadways, including Interstate 95 and the Baltimore Beltway (I-695). These roads see a significant amount of truck traffic on a daily basis. When truck drivers or trucking companies behave negligently, serious accidents and injuries may result.
The experienced Baltimore truck accident attorneys at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers can handle every step of your claim or lawsuit for you and pursue the maximum amount of compensation available in your case.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a knowledgeable Baltimore truck accident lawyer, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.
Why Select Us for Your Legal Needs?
If you suffered injuries in a recent Baltimore trucking collision, the legal team at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers is ready to help you. We have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our injured clients, and we are prepared to fight the insurance company on your behalf – or in court, if necessary.
You can see our most recent client testimonials by clicking here. Let us help you secure the compensation and justice you need for your accident-related losses right away.
How Much Is My Baltimore Truck Accident Case Worth?
When dealing with a trucking accident case in Baltimore, it’s important to understand the compensation that you may be eligible to recover. Generally, compensation can be divided into several categories, each addressing different aspects of the damage resulting from the trucking accident:
- Medical Expenses – First, you can claim compensation for all medical costs related to the truck accident. This includes emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, and ongoing treatment like physical therapy. If your injuries require long-term care, you may also seek compensation for future medical expenses.
- Lost income – If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim compensation for lost earnings. This includes earnings you would have earned during your recovery period. Additionally, if your injuries result in a long-term or permanent disability that affects your ability to earn in the future, you may be entitled to compensation for this loss of future earning potential.
- Property Damage – If your vehicle or any other property was damaged in the truck accident, you can seek compensation to cover repair costs or replacement expenses. This also includes any personal belongings that were damaged or destroyed.
- Pain and Suffering – This type of compensation addresses the physical pain and emotional distress directly resulting from the trucking accident. It is often calculated based on the severity of your injuries and the effect on your quality of life. The amount can vary widely depending on the individual case.
- Emotional Distress – If the trucking accident has caused significant psychological trauma, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD, you can recover damages for emotional distress. This compensation seeks to address the mental suffering that affects your overall well-being.
- Punitive Damages – In cases where the trucking company’s behavior was particularly egregious, such as extreme negligence or recklessness, punitive damages may be awarded. These damages are intended to punish the responsible party and deter similar conduct in the future.
At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we can handle a trucking accident claim on your behalf and ensure that we pursue all possible avenues of compensation.
Where Do Trucking Accidents Frequently Happen in Baltimore?
In Baltimore, certain areas are more prone to commercial trucking accidents due to various factors like traffic patterns, road conditions, and high congestion. Some of the most common locations for these accidents include:
- Interstate Highways – Major highways such as Interstate 95 (I-95), Interstate 695 (I-695), and Interstate 895 (I-895) are frequent sites for trucking accidents. These highways are major transportation routes that handle a high volume of traffic, including large trucks. The congestion, combined with the need for trucks to merge and navigate high-speed lanes, increases the likelihood of accidents.
- Downtown Baltimore – The downtown area, including streets like Light Street and Charles Street, often experiences heavy traffic and complex intersections. Trucks navigating these areas may face difficulties due to the tight turns and frequent traffic signals, raising the risk of collisions.
- Baltimore-Washington Parkway – This parkway connects Baltimore to Washington, D.C., and serves as a critical route for commercial trucks. The high traffic volume and frequent merges contribute to the risk of accidents, particularly during peak travel times.
- Harbor Tunnel and Fort McHenry Tunnel – These tunnels, which provide critical routes for trucks traveling through Baltimore, can be challenging for truck drivers due to their confined spaces and limited visibility. Traffic congestion leading into and out of these tunnels also adds to the risk.
- Industrial Areas – Areas with a high concentration of warehouses and distribution centers, such as the areas near the Port of Baltimore and the industrial zones around Baltimore County, are common sites for trucking accidents. Trucks frequently maneuver in these areas, which can lead to accidents if proper precautions are not taken.
- High-Crash Intersections – Certain intersections in Baltimore are known for having a higher rate of accidents involving trucks. Locations where major roads intersect or where there are complex traffic patterns, like intersections near shopping centers and major transit hubs, can be particularly hazardous.
Types of Trucking Accidents in Baltimore
In Baltimore, truck accidents often result from negligence on the part of truck drivers or trucking companies. These accidents can take many forms, each with its own set of contributing factors:
- Rear-End Crashes – One common type of accident occurs when a large commercial truck rear-ends another vehicle. This often happens due to tailgating, distracted driving, or a failing to maintain a safe following distance. Truck drivers may also be at fault if they misjudge stopping distances, particularly in heavy traffic or adverse weather conditions.
- Improper Lane Changes – Truck drivers who change lanes without signaling or without checking their mirrors can also cause serious accidents. This type of negligence often involves inadequate training or failure to adhere to safety protocols, leading to collisions with other vehicles.
- Jackknife Accidents – This type of accident occurs when a truck’s trailer swings out to the side, forming a sharp angle with the cab. Jackknife accidents can result from sudden braking, slippery road conditions, or improper load distribution. Negligence by the trucking company, such as failing to ensure proper maintenance or load securing, can also contribute to these accidents.
- Fatigued Driving – Driving while fatigued is another serious form of negligence. Truck drivers who exceed hours-of-service regulations, often due to pressure from employers, are more likely to make poor decisions and cause accidents.
- Rollover Accidents – Rollover accidents happen when a truck tips over onto its side or roof. These accidents may result from speeding, sharp turns, or driving on uneven surfaces. Negligence can involve poorly maintained vehicles, such as those with worn-out tires or faulty suspension systems, which can increase the risk of a rollover.
- Blind Spot Accidents – Commercial trucks have large blind spots, and accidents can occur when drivers fail to check these areas before changing lanes or merging. Truck drivers may be negligent if they do not make proper lane changes or if they are distracted and fail to notice other vehicles in their blind spots.
- Cargo Spills – Accidents can also result from improperly secured cargo that spills onto the road. Negligence by the trucking company in securing loads or failing to inspect cargo can lead to dangerous situations, blocking lanes or causing collisions with other vehicles.
Frequent Types of Injuries in a Baltimore Truck Accident
If you are involved in a trucking accident in Baltimore due to truck driver or trucking company negligence, you may suffer from several common types of injuries. These injuries can vary in severity and often require different types of medical treatment.
- Bone Fractures – Broken bones, such as in the arms, legs, or ribs, are common in truck accidents. Fractures may need to be treated with casts or splints, and in severe cases, surgery may be necessary to realign and fix the broken bones. Rehabilitation and physical therapy are often needed to regain full function.
- Whiplash – Whiplash occurs when your head and neck are suddenly jolted forwards and then backward, often causing neck pain, stiffness, and headaches. Treatment usually involves rest, ice packs, pain medication, and physical therapy to help with neck mobility and pain relief.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – Injuries to the spine, including herniated discs or spinal cord damage, can result from the strong force of the accident. These injuries may lead to severe pain, numbness, or paralysis. Treatment may involve pain management, physical therapy, and, in some cases, surgical intervention.
- Head Injuries – Concussions and other severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can occur from hitting your head during the crash. Symptoms often include headaches, dizziness, confusion, or memory issues. Treatment usually involves rest, monitoring for worsening symptoms, and sometimes cognitive therapy.
- Internal Injuries – Blunt force trauma can cause injuries to internal organs like the liver, spleen, or kidneys. These injuries can lead to internal bleeding or organ damage. Treatment often includes surgery, monitoring in the hospital, and recovery time.
- Soft Tissue Injuries – Sprains, strains, and bruises frequently affect muscles, ligaments, and tendons. These injuries can be painful and limit movement. Treatment typically includes rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), and physical therapy.
- Emotional and Psychological Trauma – Truck accidents can also cause emotional and psychological injuries, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Therapy, counseling, and sometimes medication can help address these issues.
Dealing with the Insurance Company after a Baltimore Trucking Crash
When you’re involved in a trucking accident in Baltimore, dealing with insurance companies can be a daunting task. Insurance companies are often more concerned with protecting their profits than paying out fair compensation. That’s where we at Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers come in to fight for your rights.
- First, we gather all of the necessary evidence, like accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimony. This helps us build a strong case that proves the truck driver or trucking company was at fault. We also carefully review your medical records to ensure that all your injuries are well-documented, which is crucial for maximizing your compensation.
- Next, we handle all communications with the insurance company. Insurers may try to pressure you into accepting a low settlement, but we won’t let that happen. We negotiate aggressively on your behalf, aiming for a settlement that fully covers your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
- If the insurance company still refuses to offer you a fair amount, we’re prepared to take your case to court. Our legal team is experienced in presenting cases to judges and juries, ensuring that you have the best chance of recovering the fair and full compensation you deserve.
Important Steps You Can Take after a Truck Accident in Baltimore
After a truck accident in Baltimore, taking certain steps can significantly affect your case and recovery.
- Seek Ongoing Medical Care – Prioritize finishing your medical treatment, regardless of how minor your injuries may seem. Completing all recommended treatments ensures that your injuries are properly documented and treated, which is crucial for both your health and any potential legal claims you file.
- Retain Important Documentation – Collect and keep all relevant documents, including medical records, accident reports, and receipts for expenses. This documentation will support your claim by providing evidence of your injuries, treatment costs, and the accident’s effect on your life.
- Speak with an Experienced Baltimore Truck Accident Lawyer – Consult with a qualified attorney who’s experienced in trucking accident cases. At Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers, we can offer guidance on your legal rights, help you understand the claims process, and work to secure the compensation you may be entitled to recover. We can gather appropriate evidence on your behalf, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests if legal action becomes necessary.
By following these steps, you can better manage your recovery and strengthen your Baltimore truck accident case.
Call a Knowledgeable Baltimore Truck Accident Lawyer Right Away
The experienced legal team of Shunnarah Truck Accident Lawyers can file a timely claim or lawsuit on your behalf and pursue the financial recovery you need for your injuries.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled truck accident attorney in Baltimore, please call us at 866-304-1575 or contact us online.