Navigating the complexities of a trucking accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re coping with physical injuries and emotional stress. One frequently overlooked yet critical aspect of such accidents is improper truck maintenance—a detail that could make all the difference in your case. If you’re searching for a New Jersey improper truck maintenance lawyer, you’ve come to the right place. At the Epstein Law Firm, P.A., our primary aim is to offer you the guidance, support, and representation you need to move forward after a devastating trucking accident. Armed with a comprehensive understanding of federal and state trucking regulations and a wealth of experience in personal injury law, we stand ready to help you navigate the intricate legal landscape, advocating tirelessly for your rights and the justice you deserve.

The numbers tell a sobering story. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 45,000 truck crashes in the US led to injury crashes, while 4,842 large trucks resulted in fatalities. The leading causes of these accidents are tire blowouts, tire/wheel detachment incidents, brake failures, and other maintenance-related issues.

These statistics paint a grim picture of the potential consequences of inadequate truck maintenance. Victims and their families often face overwhelming medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma. However, the law offers protection and recourse for those affected by such accidents. If you or a loved one has been a victim of a trucking accident due to improper maintenance, seeking legal representation is a crucial step towards securing the justice and compensation you deserve. The Epstein Law Firm, P.A., specializing in personal injury and civil cases, is here to advocate for your rights. Our dedicated legal team, featuring over 120 years of combined experience, will help you build a strong case after a faulty truck accident.

Why You Need a Qualified New Jersey Improper Truck Maintenance Lawyer for Your Case

Facing the aftermath of a truck accident caused by improper maintenance can be an incredibly daunting and complex experience. The hospitalization and suffering, in addition to handling the legal process, can be overwhelming. While some individuals may contemplate handling the legal aspects of their case on their own, having a faulty truck repair attorney in Rochelle Park, NJ from our firm can make all the difference. 

Here are the key reasons why you should enlist the help of our legal team:

Knowledge of Trucking Laws and Regulations

Trucking laws and regulations in New Jersey are intricate and continually evolving. Freight transportation is evolving daily, and laws keep on changing to fit the industry landscape. Our lawyers understand these laws and stay up-to-date with the latest changes. They understand the specific standards that trucking companies must meet concerning maintenance, safety, and inspections.

You can leverage this knowledge to build a strong case. We can help pinpoint violations of these laws, demonstrate negligence on the part of the trucking company, and ultimately increase your chances of obtaining compensation.

Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Proving negligence in truck maintenance cases requires a thorough investigation. We have the resources to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the accident. We will gather critical evidence such as maintenance records, eyewitness testimonies, and expert opinions. This meticulous approach ensures that no crucial evidence is overlooked to help you get the maximum compensation possible.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies representing trucking companies are notorious for offering low settlements or attempting to shift blame onto victims. Dealing with these companies can be overwhelming and frustrating, especially when you’re already dealing with physical and emotional recovery.

An attorney will handle all negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf. They know how to advocate for your rights effectively. Our team will ensure the defendants don’t take off you and that you receive a maximum settlement that reflects the extent of your damages.

Trial Litigation Skills Experience 

While many cases are settled out of court, some may proceed to trial. In such situations, having a lawyer to represent you in the trial is invaluable. Our lawyers understand the nuances of courtroom proceedings and can present a compelling case to a judge and jury. Your attorney’s willingness and ability to go to trial if necessary can pressure the opposing party to offer a fair settlement. 

New Jersey Enforces Federal Truck Maintenance Standards

The cornerstone of federal truck maintenance standards in the United States is the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations comprehensively outline the maintenance and safety requirements that commercial motor vehicles, including large trucks, must meet.

New Jersey, like all other states, enforces the FMCSA to the letter. This includes standards related to vehicle inspections, maintenance schedules, brake systems, tire conditions, and other components crucial for safe truck operation.

Importantly, rivers of trucks should maintain a truck component log. The trucking company should also keep a maintenance record for trucks operating consecutively for 30 days or more.

Also, truck driver records should detail inspections that cover various aspects of truck maintenance. These include:

  • Brakes
  • Tires
  • Lighting
  • Emergency equipment
  • The horn
  • The coupling device
  • Steering mechanism
  • Windows and mirrors
  • Overall vehicle condition

Trucks that violate these standards face penalties, fines, and even vehicle impoundment until the necessary repairs are done.

Differentiating Truck Maintenance from Product Issues

When handling trucking accidents, distinguishing between accidents caused by maintenance negligence and product defects is key. In maintenance-related accidents, we encounter issues such as:

  • Tire blowouts
  • Tire/wheel coming off
  • Steering system failure
  • Brake issues
  • Engine failure
  • Defective lights
  • Failed suspension

Our legal team places significant emphasis on this differentiation because it greatly influences the course of a case.

For instance, a tire blowout is a common occurrence in truck accidents. On one hand, it can occur due to improper maintenance, where tires aren’t regularly inspected, rotated, or replaced when worn. Neglecting these routine maintenance tasks can result in catastrophic consequences on the road.

On the other hand, a tire blowout may also occur due to a manufacturing defect. In such cases, the tire was inherently flawed when it left the factory. This makes it prone to failure even with proper maintenance. Identifying this crucial distinction is vital because it shapes our legal strategy.

For maintenance-related issues, we focus on demonstrating negligence on the part of the trucking company. We seek to highlight their failure to adhere to federal and state maintenance standards. In product defect cases, the focus is usually on the manufacturer who bears the responsibility under product liability. 

Contact a Faulty Truck Repair Attorney in Rochelle Park, NJ

Dealing with the repercussions of a truck accident caused by faulty truck repair requires prompt legal assistance. You don’t want to miss the proper compensation when dealing with trucking and insurance companies. A New Jersey improper truck maintenance lawyer at our firm will guide you through the legal process, advocate for your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us and take the first step toward seeking the justice you deserve. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accident Claims Due to Improper Maintenance in New Jersey

How Do I Know Whether Improper Truck Maintenance Caused My Truck Accident?

Signs that improper truck maintenance was the cause of your truck accident include sudden tire blowouts, brake failures, or wheel detachment. If you suspect maintenance issues played a role, consult with a New Jersey Improper Truck Maintenance Lawyer. They will investigate maintenance records, gather evidence, and assess the accident’s circumstances to establish a link.

When Should You Get a Lawyer for a Truck Maintenance Accident?

It’s advisable to consult a lawyer promptly after a truck maintenance-related accident. The legal process can be lengthy and intricate, so early legal counsel ensures critical evidence is preserved. Seeking legal representation early maximizes your chances of a favorable outcome and ensures your rights are protected.

Testimonials

We want to express our deepest gratitude for the exceptional work you did to insure that our father’s unfortunate accident did not go unrecognized; my dear dad would have appreciated your professionalism, unstoppable work ethic and most of all your compassion every step of the way. Please know we have the highest regard and the utmost respect for you.

Deb & Joe

Thank you again for all of your help, support and advice. You’ve made a trying and difficult time much easier to deal with for my family and myself. You will never have any idea how much your efforts were, and will forever be appreciated.

F. D.