How to Make a Semi Truck Accident Legal
Collisions with semi trucks are commonplace on America's highways. Because of their size truck accidents can cause serious injuries.
If you've been injured from a crash with trucks, an experienced lawyer can assist you in obtaining the compensation you deserve. Learn about the different types of truck accidents that occur and how they could affect your case.
1. Investigate the Accident
Evidence must be gathered immediately after an accident. This is particularly important in the case of semi-trucks. There are many sources of information, like the black-box data of the truck driver and his cell phone records. Other devices that are technological like crash recorders, or the "nanny camera" on a truck, can also be used as evidence.
In any semi-truck collision, it is important to notify the police as quickly as possible. This will guarantee an accurate and complete account of the incident. It is difficult to establish the truth and determine who was at fault for a crash without a thorough police investigation.
It is best to only answer questions as much as you are comfortable after the police arrive. It is not recommended to think or make guesses about anything to impress the police. These answers could be used against you by the trucking company or driver in court.
The officer from the police department will collect a number of different kinds of evidence at the scene, including pictures of both vehicles and the surrounding area. The officer will also record the names and phone numbers of any witnesses who might have witnessed the incident. It is also a good idea for you to take a photograph of the truck's plate and any other identifying marks on the trailer or the vehicle.
Rear-end collisions are among the most common causes for semi-truck accidents. These kinds of accidents typically occur when a vehicle follows too closely. In these cases, the driver of the truck is more likely to hit the back of the vehicle in front of them. This could cause fatal or serious injuries to the passengers of the car or truck.
Tire blowouts, shifting of loads, inadequate maintenance of trucks or trailers and other issues are all the main causes of semi-truck crashes. A reputable personal injury attorney will be able to address these issues and can help you determine who is liable for your damages. In most cases, a trucker is accountable for any accident that is caused due to their negligence. However, there are other routes to compensation that could be pursued in the event that the cause of the accident was different like a manufacturing defect in the trailer or truck.
2. Contact the Police
Contacting the police is the first step to take after an accident involving semi-trucks occurs. They will be at the scene and take official reports on what happened including any injuries. Additionally, they will provide you with a copy of the official police report to use in your claim for damages. The NYPD keeps reports on the premises at their precincts, for 30 days, so if the accident happened close to the area where you live (or an area that you can easily visit in person) it is recommended that you visit the police station and get an original copy. You can also use the NYPD's online portal to request the report.
It's crucial to speak to all those involved in the accident including the truck driver and passengers. This includes the truck driver, the passengers, and any other witnesses. Make sure you know their names, phone numbers and insurance policy information and the name of the company they work for. It is also recommended to take photos or videos of the scene, if it's possible. This will allow you to document the accident and can also provide a visual record of the moment of impact, which could be crucial later on.
Truck accidents are often caused by driver carelessness or error. This could result from drowsiness, distracted driving, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or speeding. These dangers are particularly pronounced when driving large, heavy vehicles.
Weather or road conditions that aren't ideal are another frequent cause of semi-accidents. Trucks can be difficult to maneuver, and they can quickly become uncontrollable in bad conditions.
A third common reason for truck accidents is poor maintenance on the trailer or truck. A truck that is not maintained properly can be dangerous since it is more likely to roll over or have mechanical failures. This could be due inclement weather, driver fatigue or simply neglect from the trucking company.
A truck accident lawyer will investigate the accident and determine the responsible parties, and collect evidence to prove your case. They will also handle any communications with the insurance firm, so you don't be worried that they attempt to convince you into assuming blame or reduce your compensation.
3. Gather Information
While you are waiting for the police to arrive, it's essential to take photos of everything. This includes the damages to all vehicles involved, skid marks and any other evidence that could aid your case. You should also take photographs of the driver and passengers of the truck, as well as witnesses who might have witnessed the incident. You won't need to find them later on, and your lawyer will be able to determine who is accountable.
Be sure to ask eyewitnesses if they will speak under oath. This will ensure that their words are true and not affected by other people's interpretations of the incidents. Witness statements are crucial in determining what caused an accident and can be used to demonstrate the negligence of the trucking company.
It is important to collect as much information about the trucking company, the driver, and their background. This could include their personal qualifications and training files along with a copy commercial driver's licence, history tests, results of drug screening and safety performance records. Your attorney can request this information if necessary.
Another important piece of evidence is the trucker's phone records. This could reveal whether the driver was on the phone at the time the accident happened and could provide the basis for an action. The phone records of the trucking company could be used to determine if they have guidelines regarding texting while driving.
It is essential to gather all medical documents and bills. This will help you prove the severity of your injuries and the amount of compensation you will be awarded for your financial losses. Economic damages can include medical expenses along with lost earnings and future earning potential. Non-economic damages deal with intangible losses such as suffering and pain, mental anguish and loss of consortium.
If you're interested in filing an accident claim for semi-trucks An experienced attorney can help you get all of this information together and bargain with the insurance company on your behalf.
4. Contact a Lawyer
It's normal for people to feel anxious following a collision with semi-trucks however, it's equally important to remain calm. Don't leave the accident scene, whether you are injured or not. This is not only unprofessional but also illegal. Stay on the scene until you're authorized by the authorities.
Note any damage to your car or personal property, as also any injuries you've sustained. If possible, it's recommended to document the incident using photographs or video. However notes will suffice. This information can prove useful in the future. Speak to witnesses and collect their contact information as soon as you can. It's also helpful to have photos of the crash site before any cleanup begins, as this can be used as evidence if needed.
If you've been hurt in a semi-truck crash It's crucial to seek medical care immediately and get in touch with the police right away. kansas city semi truck accident law firm 's also crucial not to admit guilt, as this could hinder your chances of receiving an appropriate settlement for your claim. If the trucking company tries to contact you with a proposal to settle and you're not sure how to respond, it's best to politely decline and contact a lawyer.
There are several different types of damages that you may be able to recover from the at-fault party in a semi-truck crash. The most common type is economic compensatory damage, which is intended to cover any financial losses that you may have suffered in the aftermath of the crash. These may include hospital costs and ongoing treatments, as well as any loss of income resulting from your injuries.
You may also be entitled to punitive damages in addition to economic damages. These are intended to punish the defendant for their illegal actions and prevent similar actions in the future. It can be difficult to prove this kind of compensation in court, but certain elements can help you determine the right amount. These could include data from the driver log of the trucker electronic driving records and evidence of cell phone usage, as well as reports or opinions of forensic or financial experts.