Commercial Truck Accidents In Vermont
Last updated on August 26, 2026
When an accident involving a large, heavy commercial vehicle, such as a tractor-trailer, a delivery truck or a bus, occurs, the injuries to the involved persons are typically substantial and financially devastating. Pursuing a Vermont commercial truck accident claim if you or a loved one has been injured can often be a lot to handle.
For years, the attorneys at Valsangiacomo & Pelkey have provided compassionate, client-centered legal services throughout Vermont. As a dedicated Vermont personal injury law firm, we take a straightforward, common-sense approach. Over two generations, Vermont families have trusted us to handle their most complex legal challenges. Whether you are a student strapped for time or dealing with a legal process for the first time, our team handles all the heavy lifting – from paperwork to negotiations – so you can focus on healing and classes.
Common Types Of Commercial Vehicle Accidents
When accidents with these commercial trucks occur, these are just a few of the most common possibilities:
- Rollovers: These large trucks typically tilt to one side due to steep turns or shifting loads.
- Rear-ending accidents: Typically caused when a larger rig does not stop fast enough – heavy vehicles have greater stopping distance.
- Jackknifing accidents: The trailer of a semi-truck can buckle, becoming completely at a 90-degree angle, blocking lanes and causing others to pile up with the crashing vehicles.
- Front-end crashes: These are usually among the most destructive possibilities, resulting in life-threatening accidents or personal injuries.
Identifying the causes behind these accidents is key to pursuing justice. Common causes include:
- Driver fatigue: Exhausted operators with slowed reflexes are just as dangerous as those driving under the influence. Truck drivers often face demanding schedules, leading to dangerous fatigue.
- Distracted driving: Using GPS, phones or eating while driving an 80,000-pound truck leads to split-second, disastrous errors.
- Improper vehicle maintenance: Skipped inspections of critical systems like brakes or steering can lead to catastrophic mechanical failures on the road.
- Overloading: Exceeding weight limits makes commercial vehicles much harder to control and slow down, placing unsafe pressure on tires.
- Improper cargo securement: Shifting cargo can cause a driver to lose control or spill heavy debris directly onto the highway.
Truck accident cases are complicated because they involve so many parties. Truck crashes can include drivers, trucking companies, and their insurers. If you are dealing with such an accident, you need experienced Vermont truck crash lawyers who can thoroughly investigate and assess who is responsible and who owes you compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vermont Truck Accidents
Understanding your legal options after a serious collision helps you feel secure. Below are some of the most common questions our clients ask.
How is liability determined in a serious truck accident?
Determining fault is about collecting – and analyzing – evidence such as a vehicle’s “black box” computer information, log books and maintenance logs, and comparing it all against Vermont’s modified comparative fault law, in which claims are barred if you are more than 50% at fault.
What injuries and damages frequently occur as a result of truck accidents?
Victims of truck accidents may suffer traumatic brain injury, fractured bones or damage to the spinal cord. In Vermont, under 12 V.S.A. 512, victims can pursue both economic losses (medical expenses, lost wages, and lost future earning capacity) and noneconomic losses (physical pain and suffering, and emotional upset).
How can you prepare for the case?
If possible, gather any available photos of the accident, as well as any applicable documents, such as medical bills and police reports. The most important step is to consult with our Barre personal injury attorneys before speaking to insurance adjusters or signing a settlement offer. Allow us to manage the difficult legal work.
Contact Our Compassionate Legal Team Today
When you suffer personal injury resulting from an accident with an 18-wheeler, truck, bus or delivery vehicle, we can represent you. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 802-476-4184 or use our online contact form to learn more and get started.