The Law Firm of Gold, Albanese, Barletti & Locascio, LLC

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Truck Accidents

What You Need to Know about New Jersey Car and Commercial Truck Accident Claims

Being involved in an auto accident is traumatic, no matter what the circumstances. However, crashes involving trucks are different than those with other cars. An attorney who is well-versed in the disparities between them can ensure that your rights and needs are addressed during the settlement process.

In order to distinguish between the two types of auto accidents, it is necessary to look at definition of commercial vehicles as opposed to regular cars. Code 11 of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Code identification of commercial trucks and tractors “includes every type of motorized vehicle used for commercial purposes, such as transportation of goods, wares and merchandise.” Trucks falling within this range include semis, moving vans and a host of other distinct equipment.

Because of the size and weight of these machines, the truck drivers have different guidelines when it comes to operation. Not only do they require more space for maneuvers, including stops, the general physics involved in an auto accident with a commercial truck are significantly different than a wreck involving two cars. Truck collisions often involve problems directly related to the vehicle itself, unlike cars where distracted driving and negligence are likely contributors.

Of course, truck drivers are subject to the same poor choices behind the wheel that face all drivers, including following too closely, driving while tired and other reckless mistakes. In addition to their own behavior, truckers are also dependent on others for their vehicle to operate properly. The owner of the vehicle, trailer, mechanical team and others might be liable instead of, or as well as, the truck driver.

When you have been in a crash with another car, the situation is relatively easy to assess. Drivers exchange information, the cops make note of relevant facts and determine driver errors. However, you will need more investigation in order to have your truck accident claim processed properly. This is why hiring an attorney quickly is so vital to your case.

Commercial truckers need specific licensing to drive big rigs as well as special licensing for various materials they might transport. If the driver didn’t have the appropriate licensure at the time of the auto accident, they will be liable. Your attorney will also check the truck records to ensure the driver had not exceeded their legal limit for hours on the road, whether the freight was properly secured and related documentation. This will help in determining exactly who is responsible for your medical and vehicle replacement expenses.

Don’t hesitate any longer. You deserve professional assistance with your auto accident claim. Contact our offices today and arrange for a consultation appointment. We will help you sort everything out and take care of your legal needs.

4 essential elements of a truck accident case

On behalf of Judy Albanese of Gold, Albanese, Barletti & Locascio, LLC posted in Truck Accidents on Wednesday, March 2, 2016.

At Gold, Albanese, Barletti & Locascio, LLC, we represent individuals who suffered injuries in truck accidents. These accidents deserve a category of their own when it comes to legal proceedings, primarily because different rules and regulations apply to commercial trucks. At our law firm, whenever we take on a new commercial vehicle accident case of this type, we implement a four-pronged legal strategy.

First, we focus on evidence preservation. As our client’s attorney, we will gather and preserve all available evidence to support our client’s damage claims, and we will take action in this regard immediately. Essential evidence in a truck accident matter could include: 1) black box information; 2) truck company records; 3) physical evidence relating to the vehicles involved, extent of injuries and location of the accident; and 4) testimony from witnesses.

Second, we will deal with the insurance companies. In some cases, plaintiffs have the right to seek compensation from their own insurance company — which might initially deny the compensation that is due. In other cases, plaintiffs have the ability to seek compensation from another party’s insurance provider. It can be difficult for a layperson to negotiate and deal with big insurance firms, which tend to be masterful at avoiding payment and/or paying a lower amount than plaintiffs are entitled to. At Gold, Albanese, Barletti & Locascio, LLC, we know how to deal with insurance companies and we handle all communication with them on behalf of our clients.

Third, we use expert accountants, medical providers and other resources to calculate the future needs of our clients resulting from their damages and injuries. We use these calculations to seek the maximum amount of compensation our clients are entitled to.

Fourth, we prepare for litigating our clients’ cases at trial. Our firm is never shy to assert our clients’ rights in court when necessary. We are well known in New Jersey as aggressive trial attorneys who are willing to go the distance — which gives us more power during pre-litigation settlement negotiations.

Every motor vehicle accident case is different and unique, but truck accidents most certainly deserve a category of their own. As such, people injured in commercial vehicle accidents may want to utilize a personal injury attorney with truck accident litigation experience. At Gold, Albanese, Barletti & Locascio, LLC, truck accidents are what we do.