Hartford Truck Accident Lawyer

Hurt in a Semi-Truck Crash in Hartford? Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

At Etemi Law, our Hartford semi-truck accident lawyers are aggressive, experienced, and justice-focused advocates for victims and families. Semi-truck crashes can cause catastrophic harm. Negligent truck drivers, negligent truck companies, and their commercial insurance carriers must be held accountable for paying claims. Do not take on the personal injury claims process alone. If you or your loved one was hurt in a serious crash, our Connecticut truck accident lawyers are here to help. Contact our Hartford truck accident attorney today for a free, strictly confidential initial consultation with an experienced truck accident lawyer.

What to Do After a Truck Accident in Hartford, Connecticut

After an accident involving an eighteen wheeler crash in Hartford, it is imperative that you take immediate action to protect your health from any truck accident injuries, your safety, and your legal rights. Here are five important steps that Hartford truck accident victims need to take:

1. Stop your vehicle, remain at the scene, and exchange information with others; 
2. Contact law enforcement—such as the Hartford Police Department—to report the crash; 
3. Seek immediate medical attention from a doctor for any physical injuries; 
4. Document the truck accident (pictures, witness contact details, etc); and
5. Consult with a Hartford truck accident lawyer before speaking to an insurance adjuster. 

Semi-Truck Accidents Can More Catastrophic Injuries

The average tractor-trailer is approximately 72 feet long. When carrying the maximum legal load in Connecticut, it can weigh as much as 80,000 pounds. The immense size of eighteen wheelers makes them an inherent safety risk. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reports that an average of 125,000 people are hurt in semi-truck accidents nationwide each year. Tragically, the National Safety Council (NSC) reports that 5,837 people were killed in big rig accidents in 2022 alone. While commercial trucks make up only around 2.5 percent of total road traffic, they are involved in nearly 12 percent of deadly motor vehicle collisions. The risk is clear: Truckers and trucking companies should never put profits before public safety and severe injuries.

Most Truck Accidents or a Truck Accident Lawsuit are Avoidable (Why They Happen in Hartford)

There are federal and state safety regulations in place that are designed to reduce the risk that eighteen wheelers pose. Although truck accidents can happen for a wide array of different reasons, the simple reality is that most of these crashes could have easily been prevented if all parties had exercised reasonable care. Here are some top causes of large truck accidents in Hartford: 

• Undertrained Drivers: All truckers in Connecticut need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL). That is necessary but not sufficient to operate a truck safely. Sadly, too many truck accidents in the Hartford area can be traced back to undertrained drivers who lack the necessary skills and knowledge for safe operation. Trucking companies must train drivers. 

• Fatigued Truckers: To operate a commercial truck safely, a trucker should be well-rested. NHTSA estimates that nearly ten percent of truck accidents nationwide happen, at least in part, due to fatigued drivings. The pressure to meet delivery deadlines may lead drivers to skip legally mandated rest breaks. Fatigued driving is negligence. 

• Speeding: Another issue with tight delivery windows is that truckers may be tempted to speed. Speeding is dangerous for all vehicles—but especially so for eighteen wheelers. Excess speed not only reduces a trucker’s ability to operate safely, it also radically increases the severity of a resulting accident should one happen. 

• Failure to Control Blind Spots: Truck accidents in Hartford frequently occur because drivers fail to control their vehicle’s blind spots. Eighteen wheelers have far larger blind spots than passenger vehicles. It is absolutely essential that truck drivers are vigilant before changing lanes or making turns. They must control their blind spots. 

• Other Traffic Safety Violations: Other traffic safety violations such as ignoring traffic signals, improper lane changes, and illegal turns contribute to many truck accidents in Hartford. If a crash happens because a trucker committed a traffic safety breach, they can be held legally responsible for the resulting crash. 

• Vehicle Maintenance Failures: Truck companies have a legal obligation to maintain their fleet. Pre-trip inspections, post-trip inspections, and proactive maintenance to address any issues are a must. Far too many truck accidents in Hartford are caused by failures in vehicle maintenance, including easily addressable issues such as worn out brakes or bad tires. 
• Poorly Loaded Trailers: Poorly loaded trailers are a significant factor in truck accidents in Hartford, as improper loading can lead to unbalanced weight distribution and cargo shifts. If a trailer is not loaded properly, it could contribute to a crash. A truck company and/or the company responsible for loading the trailer can be held liable for this type of crash. 

An Overview of Semi-Truck Accident Liability in Connecticut

Although there are federal safety regulations in place for commercial trucks, a truck accident injury claim is handled at the state level. Hurt in a truck crash in Hartford? Your claim with an experienced truck accident attorney will be governed by Connecticut law. Here are the two key points to know about truck accident liability in our state:

• Truck Accident Liability is Based on Fault: Neither a truck driver nor a truck company is automatically liable for a crash in Connecticut. Instead, semi-truck accident liability in our state is based on fault. Whoever is responsible for causing the accident―whether it is a trucker, a trucking company, or any other party—can be held legally responsible for compensating the victim(s) for their damages. Fault is based on the legal concept of negligence. Establishing fault involves proving that the crash occurs because the defendant failed to exercise proper care. Every truck accident requires a thorough investigation. Our Hartford, CT truck accident lawyers will ensure you have the evidence needed to prove fault.  
• Modified Comparative Negligence Rule: Multiple parties may share liability for the same truck accident. In fact, the injured victim may even be partially at fault for their own crash. As long as you are not at fault for a majority of your accident, you can still recover compensation for your damages. Under Connecticut law (C.G.S.A. § 52-572(h)), a modified comparative negligence standard applies. Here is an example: Imagine that you suffered $50,000 in damages in a semi-truck crash in Hartford. If you are found 20 percent at fault for your own accident due to speeding, you would be liable for 20 percent of your own damages ($10,000). Connecticut bars recovery for those who are 51 percent or more at fault. As every percentage point of fault matters, it is crucial that you are not unfairly blamed for a crash. 

Know the Deadline to File a Truck Accident Injury Lawsuit

What is the deadline for filing a truck accident injury lawsuit in Hartford? These claims fall under state law. In Connecticut (C.G.S.A. § 52-584), there is a two year statute of limitations for truck accident injury claims. Your case does not need to be fully resolved within two years, but any lawsuit must be properly filed before the deadline expires. There are only very narrow exceptions to the statute of limitations. You should not rely on them. Further, you do not want to fall behind the truck company or its insurance company in the claims process. Consult with a Hartford, CT semi-truck accident lawyer right away after a serious collision. 

Recovering the Maximum Compensation for Your Damages

Hurt in a semi-truck accident in Hartford? Under Connecticut law, you have the right to pursue compensation for the full value of your losses, including intangible damages. As insurance companies fight hard to settle claims for less, you need a top-rated attorney on your side. Our Hartford truck accident lawyers can help you pursue financial compensation for: 

• Property loss, such as vehicle repairs/replacement; 
• Ambulance transportation and emergency room care; 
• Hospital bills and other types of medical expenses; 
• Physical therapy and mental health support; 
• Loss of wages and loss of future earning power; 
• Pain and suffering & mental distress; 
• Disability, disfigurement, or permanent impairment; and
• Wrongful death of a close family member.  

Why Injured Victims Depend On Our Hartford, CT Truck Accident Lawyers

Dealing with the aftermath of a semi-truck is never easy. It is normal to have a ton of questions that can be discussed with a Connecticut truck accident lawyer. are experienced advocates for injured victims of trucking accidents. As proud members of the local Albanian community, Lou and Ron fight tirelessly for justice for a truck accident victim. The reviews from clients and our history of case results tell the story best. Our Hartford truck accident lawyers believe a proactive, detail-driven approach is key. Among other things, our Hartford truck accident lawyers are prepared to:

• Listen to your story and answer your personal injury questions; 
• Thoroughly investigate your truck accident in Hartford; 
• Gather the evidence to prove liability and damages; 
• Handle the legal paperwork that you need to proceed; 
• Represent you in settlement negotiations with the insurers; and
• Fight to help you secure the maximum financial compensation. 

Truck Accidents in Hartford: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Do I Find the Best Hartford Truck Accident Lawyer?

You need an attorney with skills, knowledge, relevant experience, and a willingness to devote personal attention to your case. Look for a Hartford truck accident lawyer who has a proven record of substantial settlements and verdicts. Our Hartford, CT semi-truck accident attorneys know how to get results. We will review your case for free and help you determine what comes next. 

What Makes Truck Accident Claims Different?

These claims are more complicated for a number of reasons. To start, semi-truck accidents are more likely to result in serious or catastrophic injuries. Further, they often involve an evaluation of complex regulations that govern the trucking industry. Another big issue is that several parties may bear liability for the crash. You need a lawyer with experience handling truck accident cases. 

Will the Truck Company’s Insurance Provider Treat Me Fairly?

They should—but unfortunately, you cannot depend on them to do so. Here is the reality: Truck companies’ insurance providers prioritize minimizing payouts to protect their own financial interests. Insurance adjusters do what is best for their own employer, not what is right for you and your family. Before you provide a statement to an insurer, consult with a Hartford attorney. 

What Evidence is Used to Prove Fault in a Truck Accident Case in Hartford?

Any evidence relevant to establish why the crash happened (liability) and the extent of your injuries (damages) can be relevant in a truck accident claim in Hartford. Along with other types of evidence, this typically includes: 

• Your personal account; 
• Witness statements; 
• Photographs and videos; 
• The police reports; 
• Data from the truck’s electronic logging device (ELD); 
• Other truck company records; and
• Expert witness testimony.

How Much Compensation Can I Expect to Recover After a Truck Accident?

It depends. Truck accident compensation will always vary based on the specific factors of the case, including the victim’s ability to establish liability and the extent of their damages. You need financial compensation for the full value of your losses, including car repairs, medical bills, loss of income, pain and suffering, and other damages. Our Hartford, CT semi-truck accident attorney can help. 

We Fight for the Rights on Truck Accidents in Hartford On Contingency

Our experienced attorney at Etemi Law represents injured victims on a contingency fee basis. After a truck accident in Hartford County, you do not need to worry about the cost of hiring the best attorney. Our Hartford truck accident attorneys do not charge clients upfront fees or hourly bills. There are no out-of-pocket costs for injured victims. Instead, we only get paid if you get paid. Your initial consultation with our Hartford semi-truck accident lawyer is free, confidential, and carries zero additional obligations.

Contact Our Hartford, CT Semi-Truck Accident Attorney Today

At Etemi Law, our Hartford truck accident lawyers fight tirelessly to protect the rights of victims and families. We have what it takes to hold the big insurance companies accountable. Hurt in a semi-truck accident? You need a top-tier legal advocate for your truck accident case. Contact us today for a free, completely confidential initial consultation. We represent injured truck accidents victims in Hartford and throughout Hartford County, including in Bristol, New Britain, West Hartford, and Manchester.