At The Law Offices of Michael J. Carroll, we understand that valuable evidence can disappear, and deadlines can impact your ability to file a claim after a Massachusetts truck accident. Take the first step toward justice and peace of mind by contacting our team: Call (617) 816-1072 today.

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When you're hit by a commercial truck, your world can change in an instant. Whether the crash occurred on I-93 near Boston’s Financial District, along the Mass Pike heading toward Worcester, or at a busy intersection like Morrissey Boulevard and Neponset Avenue in Dorchester, the consequences are often devastating. Truck accidents can cause serious injuries, damage property, and leave victims feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of insurance claims and legal proceedings.

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That’s why working with a knowledgeable Massachusetts truck accident lawyer is essential to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

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Truck Accidents Demand a Higher Level of Legal Advocacy

Truck accident cases are far more complex than typical car crashes. You're not just dealing with a negligent driver—you may be up against large trucking companies, insurance carriers, and legal teams focused on protecting their bottom line. From federal safety regulations to overlapping state laws, pursuing justice requires expertise, precision, and a thorough understanding of commercial vehicle laws. A dedicated truck crash attorney in Massachusetts can take on these challenges while you focus on healing.

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Truck crashes may involve:

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• 18-wheelers, box trucks, and construction vehicles

• Multiple liable parties, including the driver, their employer, and even third-party maintenance providers

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And with evidence such as black box data, driver logs, and DOT compliance records often playing a key role, acting quickly can make or break your case.

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An Attorney Who Puts People First

With a strong foundation rooted in service and justice, your legal advocate should be someone who genuinely cares about your outcome. Attorney Carroll’s background includes service in the U.S. Coast Guard and a lifelong commitment to protecting others. During law school, he worked directly with at-risk youths, an experience that shaped his firm’s philosophy of personalized, compassionate legal support. Today, he brings that same integrity and dedication to every truck accident case across Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

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If you’ve been injured in a truck accident and need legal help for a commercial vehicle accident, you don’t have to face the road ahead alone. A skilled attorney can make a significant difference from day one, investigating the crash, advocating for your rights, and building a strong claim for compensation.

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Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Massachusetts

Large commercial trucks travel across Massachusetts daily, from congested highways like I-95 and I-495 to rural routes through the Berkshires. While most truck drivers operate their vehicles responsibly, a single moment of negligence or mechanical failure can result in a catastrophic collision. Understanding the most common causes of truck accidents in Massachusetts can help victims recognize liability and strengthen their personal injury claims.

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Driver Fatigue and Hours-of-Service Violations

Long hours behind the wheel can lead to driver fatigue, one of the leading contributors to truck accidents. Federal regulations limit the number of hours truck drivers can operate without rest, but not all drivers or companies follow these rules. Fatigued driving can impair reaction time and decision-making, increasing the risk of serious accidents, especially in high-traffic areas like the Massachusetts Turnpike or Route 24 near Fall River.

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Distracted or Impaired Driving

Like other motorists, truck drivers may become distracted by cell phones, GPS devices, or food while driving. The size and weight of commercial trucks make any lapse in attention particularly dangerous. Additionally, impaired driving, whether due to alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications, remains a significant safety concern.

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Common distractions include:

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• Texting or using a phone

• Adjusting navigation systems or in-cab controls

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Improper Loading and Cargo Shifts

If a truck’s cargo is improperly secured, it can shift during transit, causing the truck to jackknife, tip, or become unbalanced. Overloaded trailers can also strain the braking system and affect maneuverability. In many cases, a third-party company responsible for loading the truck may share liability for the resulting crash.

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Mechanical Failures and Poor Maintenance

Trucking companies are legally required to inspect and maintain their vehicles, but skipped maintenance or faulty parts can lead to tire blowouts, brake failure, and other mechanical issues. Trucks traveling down steep hills like those on Route 2 in western Massachusetts are especially vulnerable if their braking systems are compromised.

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Examples of preventable mechanical failures:

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• Worn brake pads or defective air brakes

• Bald tires or steering malfunctions

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Weather and Road Conditions

Snow, ice, fog, and heavy rain frequently impact road safety in Massachusetts. Inexperienced or reckless truck drivers who fail to adjust for weather conditions can cause pileups, rear-end crashes, and loss-of-control incidents on slick roads.

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Massachusetts Truck Accident Lawyer Explains Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident Case

Determining liability in a truck accident case is rarely straightforward. Unlike typical car accidents, commercial truck crashes often involve multiple parties who may each bear some responsibility. In Massachusetts, identifying all potential sources of liability is essential to securing full and fair compensation.

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A skilled Massachusetts truck accident lawyer can investigate the crash thoroughly to uncover the chain of events and the individuals or entities behind it.

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The Truck Driver

The truck driver is often the first party examined in a collision. If they were speeding, distracted, impaired, fatigued, or violating traffic laws at the time of the crash, they may be personally liable. However, even if the driver was clearly negligent, they are rarely the only party held accountable, especially when operating as an employee of a larger company.

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The Trucking Company

Trucking companies may be liable for the actions of their drivers under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior, which holds employers responsible for the conduct of employees during the scope of their employment. Additionally, companies may face direct liability if they failed to properly train their drivers, pressured them to violate hours-of-service regulations, or neglected routine maintenance and safety inspections.

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Cargo Loaders and Third-Party Contractors

Many commercial trucking operations rely on third-party vendors to load freight, perform inspections, or handle vehicle maintenance. A separate logistics or freight company may share liability if the cargo was improperly secured or the truck was overloaded. These entities often work under contract and carry their own commercial insurance, which can complicate the claims process.

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Manufacturers and Parts Suppliers

Sometimes a defective truck part, such as faulty brakes, worn tires, or a malfunctioning coupling system, can cause or contribute to an accident. In such cases, the manufacturer of the truck or its parts may be held responsible through a product liability claim.

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Government Entities (In Some Cases)

A local or state government entity might be liable if poor road design, faulty traffic signals, or unaddressed hazards like potholes contributed to the crash. Claims against government agencies in Massachusetts involve unique procedures and tight deadlines, making early legal guidance critical.

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Because liability can span across several parties, building a strong truck accident case often requires accident reconstruction, logbook analysis, black box data, and deep familiarity with both Massachusetts and federal trucking laws.

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Massachusetts Truck Accident Lawyer’s Guide for What to Do Immediately After a Truck Accident

The moments following a truck accident can be chaotic and traumatic, but taking the right steps can make a significant difference in protecting your health, your legal rights, and future claim. Whether the crash happened on I-495 near Andover or on a local road like Route 20 in Worcester, it’s important to act quickly and decisively.

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Prioritize Your Safety and Call 911

Your primary concern should always be safety. If possible, relocate to a safe area away from traffic and call 911. Reporting the accident ensures that emergency services and law enforcement arrive at the scene quickly. A police report from the Massachusetts State Police or local authorities will be crucial for your insurance and legal needs claim.

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Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, you should still get evaluated by a medical professional. Some injuries, like internal bleeding, concussions, or spinal trauma, may not present immediate symptoms. Prompt medical care documents your condition and creates a record that supports your injury claim later.

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Document the Scene

If you are physically able, collect as much evidence as you can before the scene is cleared:

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• Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries

• Get contact and insurance details from the truck driver and any witnesses

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Also, make note of important details such as the truck’s license plate, company name, and any suspicious behavior (e.g., slurred speech or signs of fatigue).

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Notify Your Insurance

You’ll need to inform your insurance company about the accident, but it’s important to avoid making recorded statements or accepting early settlement offers until you’ve spoken with an experienced Massachusetts truck accident lawyer.

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The steps you take immediately after a truck crash can significantly influence the outcome of your case and protect your rights from the very beginning.

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Massachusetts Truck Accident Lawyer Explains Laws That Affect Truck Accident Claims

Truck accident claims in Massachusetts are governed by a combination of state laws and federal trucking regulations. Knowing how these laws apply to your case is crucial when seeking compensation for injuries, lost income, and other damages.

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Working with a knowledgeable Massachusetts truck accident lawyer can help you navigate these legal complexities and build a strong case against all responsible parties.

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Comparative Negligence in Massachusetts

Massachusetts follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you are partially at fault for the accident, you may still recover damages, as long as you are not more than 50% responsible. However, your compensation will be reduced in proportion to your degree of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault, your final compensation will be reduced by 20%. Insurance companies often try to use this rule to shift more blame onto the victim, which is why legal representation is essential.

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Statute of Limitations

Massachusetts law imposes a strict deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a truck accident. You generally have three years from the date of the crash to file a claim in civil court. If you miss this deadline, you could lose your right to pursue compensation entirely. This statute of limitations also applies to wrongful death claims arising from fatal truck crashes.

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Insurance and Commercial Vehicle Coverage

Trucking companies must carry higher levels of liability insurance than individual drivers due to the potential severity of commercial vehicle accidents. In Massachusetts, coverage must meet both state minimums and federal standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This often means multiple layers of insurance are in play, and each insurer may attempt to minimize its financial responsibility.

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Federal and State Regulations

Truck drivers and carriers must comply with numerous safety regulations, including limits on driving hours, vehicle inspections, and load requirements. Violations of these rules, such as exceeding the Hours-of-Service limits or failing to maintain brakes, can be strong evidence of negligence and may significantly impact liability in your case.

A thorough legal review can reveal whether any regulations were violated.

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Compensation an Experienced Massachusetts Truck Accident Lawyer Can Secure for Victims

Truck accidents often result in significant physical, emotional, and financial harm. Because of the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles, the injuries sustained in these crashes are frequently severe, and so are the losses.

If you were injured in a collision with a large truck in Massachusetts, you may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. A skilled Massachusetts truck accident lawyer can help you pursue the maximum recovery available under the law.

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Economic Damages

Economic damages cover the tangible financial losses that result from the accident. These are often supported by bills, receipts, and employment records. Examples include:

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• Medical expenses: Hospital bills, rehabilitation, physical therapy, medications, and ongoing care

• Lost income: Wages lost due to time off work, and future earnings if you’re unable to return to your job

• Property damage: Repair or replacement costs for your vehicle and other personal property

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These losses can add up quickly, especially if you require long-term medical treatment or are left with a permanent disability.

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Non-Economic Damages

Not all losses are financial. Truck accidents often take a serious toll on your emotional well-being and overall quality of life. Non-economic damages are meant to compensate for these impacts, which may include:

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• Pain and suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury

• Loss of enjoyment of life: Inability to participate in activities you once enjoyed

• Loss of consortium: Impact of your injuries on your relationship with a spouse or family

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Punitive Damages

If the trucking company or driver acted with gross negligence or intentional misconduct, such as driving under the influence, punitive damages may be awarded to punish that behavior and deter future violations.

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An experienced attorney will work to calculate all forms of damages and negotiate for a full and fair settlement.

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How a Massachusetts Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help

Truck accident cases are legally complex, often involving multiple parties, federal regulations, and high-stakes insurance claims. If you’ve been injured in a crash involving a commercial vehicle, hiring a skilled Massachusetts truck accident lawyer can be one of the most important decisions you make.

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Your attorney will take on the burden of the legal process so you can focus on your recovery, while aggressively pursuing the compensation you need to move forward.

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Conducting a Detailed Investigation

Unlike a basic fender-bender, a truck accident requires a comprehensive investigation. Your lawyer will gather key evidence to determine how the crash occurred and who is responsible. This includes:

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• Obtaining black box data (event data recorder)

• Reviewing driver logbooks and maintenance records

• Analyzing photos, surveillance video, and police reports

• Working with accident reconstruction experts

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In many cases, crucial evidence is held by the trucking company and may be destroyed if not requested promptly. A lawyer can send preservation letters to ensure this evidence is protected.

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Identifying All Liable Parties

Your attorney will assess every angle of the case to uncover all potentially liable parties, such as the driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, cargo loaders, or maintenance contractors. This is critical for maximizing your compensation, as commercial trucking operations often involve multiple companies with separate insurance policies.

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Handling the Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are not on your side. They may offer a lowball settlement, delay your claim, or try to shift blame onto you. Your truck accident lawyer can:

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• Communicate directly with insurers on your behalf

• Negotiate for a fair settlement that reflects your true losses

• File a lawsuit and represent you in court if necessary

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Providing Personalized Legal Guidance

A compassionate and experienced attorney will offer more than just legal representation; they’ll also be a trusted advocate during a challenging time. From explaining your rights to preparing you for a deposition or trial, your lawyer will be there every step of the way.

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By partnering with a knowledgeable truck crash attorney in Massachusetts, you gain a powerful ally who understands both the law and the stakes involved in your recovery.

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Why Choose Our Firm for Your Massachusetts Truck Accident Case

Choosing the right legal team after a truck accident can make the difference between a frustrating experience and a successful recovery. With so much on the line, your health, your finances, your future, you deserve a legal advocate who takes your case seriously and treats you with dignity.

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Our firm is proud to offer personalized, compassionate representation for truck accident victims across Massachusetts and Rhode Island, with a deep commitment to service and justice that sets us apart.

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A Track Record of Service and Integrity

Attorney Michael J. Carroll brings more than just legal knowledge to every case; he brings a lifetime of service. As a veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard, Attorney Carroll understands what it means to protect others and make high-stakes decisions under pressure. His experience with at-risk youths during law school shaped his empathetic, client-centered approach to law.

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These values continue to guide our firm’s mission today: to fight for everyday people facing overwhelming legal and financial challenges.

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Personalized Legal Support—Every Step of the Way

Truck accident cases are never “one-size-fits-all.” That’s why we take the time to understand your unique situation and tailor our strategy to meet your needs. From your first consultation to the final resolution of your case, we make it a priority to keep you informed, involved, and supported.

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We provide:

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• Direct access to your attorney, not just support staff

• Clear communication and honest case assessments

• Step-by-step guidance through the legal process

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You won’t be left in the dark, and you’ll never feel like just another case number.

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Deep Knowledge of Massachusetts Trucking Laws

We are well-versed in both state and federal trucking regulations, including FMCSA rules, commercial insurance requirements, and Massachusetts' comparative negligence laws. Our team knows how to hold truck drivers, carriers, and third parties accountable for violations such as:

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• Hours-of-service infractions

• Improper vehicle maintenance

• Negligent hiring or supervision practices

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By investigating every angle of your case, we can identify all responsible parties and build a comprehensive claim for compensation.

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Proven Results and a Client-Focused Reputation

We’ve helped clients recover damages for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and more after devastating truck crashes. While no two cases are the same, our firm consistently delivers strong results by focusing on what matters most: justice for our clients.

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What you can expect when working with us:

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• Respect, compassion, and confidentiality

• Aggressive representation against powerful trucking and insurance companies

• A firm that truly cares about your recovery, not just the bottom line

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When you work with us, you’re not alone. You’re backed by a legal team that’s ready to fight for your future with integrity, experience, and dedication.

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Get the Legal Representation You Deserve; Contact a Massachusetts Truck Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been injured in a commercial truck accident in Massachusetts, you don’t have to navigate the legal system on your own. These cases are often complex and high-stakes, involving large trucking companies, powerful insurers, and layers of regulations.

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With so much at risk, you need a legal advocate who understands the law, values your recovery, and will stand by your side from start to finish. Our firm is proud to provide compassionate, results-driven representation tailored to your needs because your future matters.

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Call the Law Office of Michael J. Carroll today at (617) 816-1072 for a free consultation. Let a dedicated Massachusetts truck accident lawyer review your case, explain your legal options, and help you fight for the compensation you deserve. There are no fees unless we win your case.

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