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.

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 cited for:

• driving longer hours than allowed, resulting in driver fatigue
• driving at excessive speed
• driving trucks that are too big or overweight
• failing to conduct proper maintenance especially with regard to brakes

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, which can lead 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 under the stress of the accident. You have rights that you may not even be aware of.