Truck accidents are an unfortunate risk when driving on New Mexico roads. New Mexico happens to be one of the states where long-haul truckers frequently drive through and rest. As many people are aware, trucking accidents are also a very frequent occurrence in New Mexico. This may be because of the sheer strength and magnitude of trucks as well as the fatigue of the truck drivers. These accidents occur despite national regulations regarding the safety and training of these truck drivers.
The rate of accidents of truckers with even significant training is remarkably high, so one can imagine the rate of accidents involving people driving trucks who do not have that experience. A common scenario in which this can occur is when people rent moving trucks. Often, accidents will occur because the people renting the trucks have very little experience driving trucks and virtually no safety training. Additionally, people who rent moving trucks often do not understand the focus that is needed to drive trucks of that size. Distracted driving can result in serious accidents when the driver is driving in an average-sized sedan, and the risk of serious injury only increases relative to the size of the vehicle. Also, individuals who rent trucks may not know how the truck is supposed to drive when working properly. They may ignore signs that the truck is malfunctioning and continue to operate it.
In almost all cases, the rental companies require people to sign a waiver of liability before allowing them to rent their trucks. However, the validity of the waivers depends largely on the wording of the waiver and the exact circumstances of the accident. It is important that people who have been injured because they were involved in an accident with a rental truck contact an attorney to discuss their rights and remedies.
Rental Moving Truck and Sedan Involved in Serious Accident on California Highway
In late February, a rental truck and a passenger car were involved in a serious accident on the Yolo Causeway. According to a news report, the accident occurred on Interstate 80 at 5:30 in the morning. Evidently, a few minutes before the accident with the rental truck, the car, a Mitsubishi Eclipse, was involved in an accident with a Ford. Apparently, the Ford F-150 slowed down because of a changed traffic pattern when it was rear-ended by the Eclipse. The Ford somehow stopped and ended up in the wrong direction on the center median. The rental truck then ended up slamming into the car. Unfortunately, the truck driver could not maintain control and ending up hitting a guardrail and flying off the side of the highway. Luckily, emergency crews were able to arrive in time to rescue the truck driver, who was stuck inside the car. He broke his legs, and the other drivers suffered minor injuries.
Have you been Involved in an Accident with a Rental Truck Driver in New Mexico?
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed after being involved in an accident with a rental truck driver, it is important that you contact an attorney at the Fine Law Firm to discuss your case. These cases involve a lot of moving parts because a potential plaintiff must be able to identify the correct defendant and establish liability. A truck accident attorney at the Fine Law Firm can assist you in doing this. If you are successful, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for the injuries you suffered. This may include damages for your past and future medical expenses and your lost wages, as well as any compensation for the pain and suffering you endured as a result of the accident. Contact an attorney at the Fine Law Firm today at 800-640-6590 to schedule a free initial consultation.
More Blog Posts:
State Supreme Court Finds that Governmental Immunity Does Not Apply to School Bus Driver, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, February 25, 2016.
Specific Limitations in Liability in New Mexico Governmental Tort Suits, New Mexico Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, February 22, 2016.