For a state that ranks eighth smallest in the US in terms of size, Maryland sees a disturbingly high number of truck accidents. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reports around 3,900 crashes involving semis, 18-wheelers, and other large commercial vehicles annually. Because the losses for victims can be devastating, it is a comfort to know that state law protects your rights.
However, while you do have legal options to recover compensation, misinformation about these claims can be confusing. Trust a Maryland truck accident attorney for personalized advice, but the following information debunks some common myths.
Myth #1: The Trucking Company’s Insurance Will Automatically Pay
In reality, these insurers protect their bottom line, not your recovery. Adjusters do all they can to reduce what they owe, including recording your statements and offering a quick settlement before you know your losses. Plus, trucking companies employ legal teams ready to dispute liability immediately after a crash. They may shift the blame to you despite a lack of evidence.
Myth #2: You Have Plenty of Time to File a Truck Accident Claim
Maryland law gives injury victims a limited window to take legal action, with a statute of limitations of three years. Waiting too long can mean losing your right to compensation entirely, regardless of how serious your injuries are.
Another reason to act quickly is that evidence degrades quickly after a truck accident. You risk losing:
- Visual evidence like skid marks
- Surveillance footage
- Vehicle electronic logging data
Myth #3: Maryland Law Bars All Compensation When Victims Bear Some Blame
Maryland follows a strict contributory negligence rule, and many assume any fault on their part destroys their case. While Maryland law does bar recovery if you are found even slightly at fault, determining fault is rarely simple in truck accidents.
Despite this contributory negligence law, a skilled attorney can protect your right to pursue full compensation by:
- Investigating thoroughly
- Challenging unfair blame allegations
- Building evidence to show the truck driver or company caused the crash
Myth #4: Truck Accident Claims are as Simple as Car Accident Cases
Crashes involving large trucks are far more complex due to several factors, such as:
- Federal trucking regulations
- Driver logs
- Black box data
- Cargo loading standards
Multiple parties can share liability, including the driver, trucking company, and even parts manufacturers. Injuries also tend to be more severe due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, so immediate medical costs and related losses can be significant.
Contact a Baltimore County Truck Accident Lawyer for Details
These myths could stand in the way of your truck crash claim, but you can avoid mistakes with assistance from an experienced attorney. The team at the Law Offices of Michael A. Freedman has helped injured victims throughout Maryland understand their rights and pursue fair compensation after an injury-causing crash. Our team is ready to investigate your accident and build a strong case on your behalf, so please contact us today. You can call 410.363.6848 or go online to schedule your free consultation at our offices in Owings Mills and Glen Burnie, MD.
