Truck Accidents

Union County Truck Accident Lawyer

Also Serving Clients Throughout the State of New Jersey

New Jersey is a major source of commercial truck activity. That activity is a prime reason for our traffic congestion, and it can also lead to truck accidents. When you’re injured in one of those crashes, the consequences can be serious. Depending on the circumstances, you may have the right to compensation.

Whether or not you get the settlement you deserve might come down to the ability of your lawyer to navigate what can be a complex legal landscape. Attorney Michael Chelland works with injured plaintiffs throughout Union County, Essex County, and all of the North Jersey Region.

Get a free consultation, either in person or virtually, by calling (908) 948-8395 or by reaching out with our online contact form.

Understanding Truck Accident Liability in Union County

Depending on the circumstances, these cases can be complex, as liability isn’t always as straightforward as it might be in a standard car accident.

When it comes to big rig accidents, the stakes are usually higher due to the severe damages and injuries involved. These vehicles are much larger and heavier than standard cars, which means that accidents often have catastrophic outcomes. Proper legal guidance is crucial in such scenarios to ensure every party responsible is held accountable. Multi-party liability is common, and identifying all liable parties can significantly impact the settlement amount.

Multiple parties could bear, or even share responsibility for a big rig accident:

The truck driver is often the first to be scrutinized. If they were speeding, distracted, driving under the influence, or violating hours-of-service regulations, they could be held accountable.
Trucking companies may also bear responsibility if they fail to properly train their drivers, ignore federal safety standards, or impose unrealistic delivery schedules that encourage dangerous practices, such as driving while fatigued.
Truck part manufacturers are another potential source of liability. If a defective component, such as faulty brakes or tires, contributed to the accident, the manufacturer could be liable.
Cargo loaders might share the blame if an improperly secured load caused the truck to overturn or lose control.
Third-party maintenance companies could face liability if they neglected needed repairs or inspections.

Properly identifying the right defendant is critical to securing a financial settlement. Thorough investigations may be needed to unravel the truth. Evidence such as driver logs, truck maintenance records, black box data, and surveillance footage should be meticulously reviewed to identify all negligent parties.

All of this has to be done while trucking companies and their insurers often conduct parallel investigations, aiming to shift or minimize their liability. Injured plaintiffs need an attorney who is dedicated to protecting their interests. That’s what Attorney Michael Chelland is here for, providing dedicated services as a big rig accident attorney in Union County.

The complexity of determining liability in these cases is why it's important to work with a lawyer familiar with the intricacies of trucking regulations and accident investigations. A knowledgeable attorney will ensure that powerful trucking companies and insurance firms do not undermine your claim. The Law Office of Michael Chelland is committed to an exhaustive legal strategy that addresses every possible angle of your case.

The Role of Federal Regulations in Trucking

Federal regulations exist to facilitate safety on the nation’s roads, particularly given the size and weight of commercial trucks. Agencies like the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) oversee and enforce these rules to minimize accidents caused by driver behavior, mechanical failures, and cargo-related issues.

Specific regulations like the Hours of Service (HOS) rules limit how long a truck driver can be on the road without taking breaks. These time restrictions aim to prevent fatigue-related crashes, one of the most common causes of serious truck accidents.

Vehicle maintenance standards are another key aspect of federal regulations. Regular inspections and repairs are mandated to ensure that trucks remain in safe working condition. Components such as brakes, tires, and lighting systems must meet strict standards, reducing the risk of mechanical failures that could result in catastrophic accidents.

Similarly, rules surrounding cargo loading and securement are designed to prevent cargo shifts, which can cause trucks to roll over or jackknife. For example, loads exceeding a truck’s weight limit can strain braking systems, making it difficult for drivers to stop in time to avoid a collision.

When these regulations are violated, the legal ramifications in a truck accident case can be significant. Understanding these federal regulations is imperative in building a strong legal case. Federal regulations provide a framework for accountability, and leveraging them may hold the key to unlocking justice in truck accident claims.

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Steps to Take After a Truck Accident

Any accident can be scary, but a collision with a truck can be particularly traumatic. It’s possible that plaintiffs might be too injured or traumatized to direct their own actions in the immediate aftermath of the accident.

However, if you are physically able, taking the following steps can protect both your personal health and your legal interests:

See a doctor. Even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured, get medical attention. Sometimes, injuries take time to manifest. From a legal perspective, the doctor’s report is a respected source of evidence.
Document the scene. Use your phone to take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, skid marks, debris, and any visible injuries. If there are traffic signs, signals, or weather conditions that may have contributed to the crash, include those in your documentation.
Gather contact information. Witness statements can help corroborate your version of events. Also, make sure to obtain the truck driver’s employer information and insurance details. Get their statements if you can, and our office will follow up for more testimony.
File a police report. Law enforcement will create an official record of the incident, which can serve as important evidence in your case.

Throughout the process, it’s important to remember that silence is a virtue. It’s easy to say words to the effect of “I’m okay,” or to use language that might be interpreted as either an admission of fault or absolving another party of fault. All of this, no matter how innocently it might have been said, can come back to haunt you in negotiation or litigation. Saying as little as possible is your best approach.

Following these steps after a truck accident can put our Union County lawyer in a better position to negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf. As you focus on your recovery, we’ll handle communication with insurers, collect evidence, and work for the compensation you deserve.

Better Days Are Closer Than You Think

With Michael Chelland, You Have A Warrior On Your Side

We genuinely care about you—your journey, your recovery, and making sure you’re supported every step of the way. Here's what sets us apart.

Personal Attention

We understand how overwhelming this time can be. We take the time to listen and address your concerns with care and understanding.
Strategic Advocacy

We focus on creating practical solutions tailored to your unique situation, keeping your needs at the forefront of everything we do.
Relentless Pursuit of Justice

Our compassionate care turns into steadfast persistence with insurance companies, working toward fair compensation.
Guidance You Can Trust

We guide you through every step of the process with transparency and clear communication, allowing you to focus on recovery.

Advocacy You Can Rely On

After enduring the physical and mental trauma of a truck accident, it’s important to know that your lawyer is in your corner, with interests directly aligned with yours. That’s why Attorney Michael Chelland works on contingency—we only earn a fee if we get you a settlement.

Contact our office at (908) 948-8395 today for the kind of diligent and zealous advocacy you can trust.

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"Absolute Game-Changer"
His strategic approach, attention to detail, and communication instilled confidence in me throughout the entire process. I felt empowered and supported every step of the way.

- Vanessa P.
"I Felt Like A Priority"
Michael made the entire process seamless. Not only is he incredibly knowledgeable, but he also demonstrates genuine compassion for his clients.

- Tasha D.
"Helpful And Knowledable"
Extremely professional, very helpful and knowledgeable. Mr. Chelland provided me with excellent legal counsel on multiple occasions and I highly recommend!

- Former Client