According the the Center for National Truck and Bus Statistics, trucks account for only 3% of the vehicles on the roads, but cause over 20% of accident related fatalities. An auto accident with a large truck can cause extensive property damage, serious personal injuries or wrongful death.

At Ely, Bettini, Ulman & Rosenblatt we have successfully handled thousands of serious automobile, motorcycle and truck accident cases for over 40 years. We realize that every case, every client, and every injury is unique.

Big trucks are defined as those with a gross vehicle rating of 10,000 pounds or more. This includes: single unit trucks (like UPS or Fed Ex); heavy cargo vans; and tractor trailers (also known as 18 wheelers or semis).

Tractor trailers are the largest of these and can weigh 80,000 pounds or more. That is a significant threat on the highway.

Drivers of trucks are often sited for:

• driving longer hours then allowed, resulting in debilitating fatigue
• excessive speeds
• driving trucks too big or overloaded
• improper maintenance, especially brake defects

If you have been in an accident with a truck, it is imperative that you contact an attorney immediately. Truck drivers and trucking companies have separate regulations that you may not be familiar with, and can led you to further victimization. Truck companies have lawyers and insurance adjusters that many times will arrive at the scene of the accident while you are still getting your bearings. You have rights that you may not even be aware of it.