Rental Truck Accidents

Rental trucks pose unique risks, as they are often operated by individuals unfamiliar with handling large vehicles. Frequently used for moving or deliveries, these trucks can cause devastating crashes when driven recklessly or poorly maintained. Determining liability in these cases often involves assessing multiple parties, including the driver, rental company, and maintenance providers. Consulting with a Prince George's County rental truck accident lawyer can help you understand your options.

Foran & Foran, P.A. has successfully handled numerous truck accident cases, including moving truck accidents, which often share similar liability issues. Our legal team investigates every detail, from vehicle maintenance records to rental agreements, to ensure all responsible parties are held accountable. Contact us today to build your case and seek compensation for your losses.

Rental trucks provide a convenient way to move goods, but their increased use by inexperienced drivers can lead to heightened accident risks. Companies like U-Haul, Penske, and Budget dominate the market, offering a range of trucks requiring no commercial license. This accessibility allows individuals with minimal training to drive large, heavy vehicles, often in unfamiliar areas. A Prince George's County rental truck accident lawyer can help you determine liability if you or a loved one were injured in such an incident.

Unlike professional truck drivers, rental truck users lack the experience to handle challenging road conditions or the vehicle's unique mechanics. These factors, combined with the stress of moving or hauling, can result in poor judgment and accidents. For example, a driver unfamiliar with blind spots or braking distances may fail to avoid a collision, causing injuries or even fatalities.

Rental truck companies generally impose minimal requirements to rent and operate their vehicles, contributing to their heightened risk. Typically, drivers must meet the following conditions:

Be at least 18 years old (21 for larger vehicles); 

Have a valid driver's license (no commercial endorsement required) and

Provide proof of insurance or purchase insurance from the rental company.

These limited criteria mean drivers without experience operating large vehicles can legally drive rental trucks. This inexperience can lead to accidents, particularly on highways or during tight turns in urban areas. Unlike tractor-trailers, rental trucks are often used for personal errands and lack standardized operator training. The absence of a formal training process for rental truck drivers places the driver and other road users at risk.

The added stress of navigating through dense traffic or unfamiliar roads exacerbates these dangers. A Prince George's County rental truck accident lawyer can evaluate whether driver negligence or a lack of proper vehicle maintenance contributed to the crash.

Determining fault in rental truck accidents often involves multiple parties. Liability depends on the specific circumstances, including the actions of the driver, the rental company, and any third parties involved. A thorough investigation can help establish fault and pursue compensation.

The Rental Company

Rental truck companies have a duty to ensure their vehicles are safe and roadworthy. The company may bear responsibility if an accident occurs due to mechanical issues, such as faulty brakes or worn tires. Additionally, rental companies must comply with state and federal regulations regarding maintenance and inspections. A failure to meet these obligations could make them liable for damages.

The Driver or Renter

The individual renting and operating the truck is often at fault. Driver negligence, such as speeding, failing to yield, or driving distracted, can lead to accidents. If the driver knowingly ignored safety instructions or overloaded the vehicle, their actions might have contributed to the crash. It is also possible for a passenger in the rental truck to share responsibility if their actions interfere with safe driving.

Third Parties

Other entities, such as manufacturers or repair shops, may sometimes share liability. These parties could be held accountable if a defective part or improper repairs caused the crash. Additionally, other drivers on the road might contribute to an accident through reckless or negligent behavior.

Rental truck accidents often involve out-of-state drivers, raising questions about jurisdiction. For example, if a crash occurs in Maryland but the rental contract was signed elsewhere, you may need to determine the appropriate venue for filing a claim. Consulting a Prince George's County rental truck accident lawyer ensures these issues are handled correctly.

Accidents involving rental trucks can occur in various ways. Understanding the common types of incidents can highlight the dangers and help victims seek proper compensation.

Rear-End Collisions

Due to their size and weight, rental trucks require longer stopping distances. A distracted or inexperienced driver may be unable to stop in time, leading to rear-end accidents.

Overloaded Vehicles

Drivers who exceed the recommended weight limits for a rental truck risk losing control, particularly on steep grades or sharp turns. Overloaded trucks are also more prone to tire blowouts, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Rollovers

Rental trucks have a high center of gravity, making them susceptible to rollovers. Sudden lane changes, excessive speeds, or uneven cargo distribution often contribute to these incidents.

Collisions During Turns

Wide turns can be challenging for drivers unaccustomed to operating large vehicles. Failure to account for the truck's extended swing can result in side-impact collisions with other cars, cyclists, or pedestrians.

A Prince George's County rental truck accident lawyer can assess your case and help determine which factors played a role in the crash.

Rental trucks often involve inexperienced drivers or poorly maintained vehicles, creating dangerous conditions on the road. If you’ve been injured in a rental truck accident, Foran & Foran, P.A. can assist you in holding the responsible parties accountable. Our dedicated team of Prince George’s County truck accident attorneys will work tirelessly to secure compensation for your injuries and losses. Call us at 301-441-2022 or contact us online for a free consultation. Your recovery is our priority.