How to Make a Semi Truck Accident Legal
On the roads of America collisions between semi trucks are not common. Because of their size, truck accidents can cause serious injuries.
If you have been injured in a truck crash, an experienced attorney will help you obtain the compensation you're due. Find out about the various kinds of truck accidents and how they could affect your case.
1. Investigate the Cause of the Accident
In any accident, the evidence must be preserved and collected right away. This is especially crucial in cases involving semi-trucks. This is because there are a myriad of sources of information and evidence like the truck driver's black box data and cell phone records. Other technological devices like crash recorders or the "nanny camera" on a truck could also be used as evidence.
In any semi-truck collision it is imperative to involve the police as soon as you can. This will guarantee the most complete and accurate account of the incident. Without a proper and thorough police investigation, it can be very difficult to prove the truth about what happened and who is at fault in the crash.
When the police arrive, it is best to answer any questions only in the amount you feel at ease. It is not recommended to speculate or speculate on anything in an attempt to make yourself look better. These types of answers may later be used by the truck driver, trucking company or their insurance companies to sue you in court.
The police officer will take various kinds of evidence from the scene, including photographs of both vehicles as well as the surrounding area. The police officer will record the names and phone numbers of any witnesses who could have witnessed the incident. It's also a good idea for you to take a photograph of the truck's plate as well as any other markings that identify the trailer or the vehicle.
One of the most frequent causes of semi-truck accidents are rear-end collisions. These kinds of accidents typically occur when a vehicle follows too closely. In these instances, the truck driver is likely to smash into the back of the vehicle in front of them, and often can cause serious or fatal injuries to the passengers in that vehicle or truck.
Tire blowouts, shifting of loads, improper maintenance of trailers or trucks as well as other factors are reasons for semi-truck accidents. A reputable personal injury attorney can help you understand these issues and can help you determine who is liable for your damages. In most situations, the truck driver is responsible for any accident that is the result of their negligence. However, there are other routes to compensation that could be pursued if it is determined that the cause of the accident was a different cause like a manufacturing defect in the trailer or truck.
2. Contact the Police
When an accident involving semi-trucks occurs, the first thing you must take is to notify the police. They will be able to record official statements about the accident including any injuries that may have occurred. You will also receive an official police report can be used to prove your claim for damages. The NYPD keep their reports on-site in their precincts forever which means that if you live near to the scene of the incident (or is able to go there easily) then you should take one. Or, you can go to the NYPD's online portal to make a request for an investigation.
Apart from talking to the police, it's important to collect information from all involved in the incident. This includes the truck driver, passengers, and any other witnesses. You should try to get their name, number as well as their insurance details and company name. It's also an excellent idea to take pictures or videos of the scene, if you can. This will help you document the accident and can also provide a visual record of the moment of impact which could be crucial later on.
In many cases, truck accidents are caused by driver error or negligence. This could be due to drowsiness inattention, driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol or speeding. These issues can be particularly risky when driving a large automobile that is heavy and large.
Another common cause of semi-accidents is bad roads or weather conditions. Trucks aren't easy to maneuver, and if they're driven in poor conditions, they can easily become unstable and cause collisions with smaller vehicles.
Improper maintenance of the truck or its trailer is the third most common reason for truck accidents. Poorly maintained trucks are more likely to roll over or have mechanical problems. This could be due to inclement weather, driver fatigue or even a lack of care from the trucking company.
A lawyer who handles a truck accident will investigate the accident, determine all responsible parties and gather evidence to prove your case. They will also handle all communications with the trucking company's insurance company so you do not need to worry about them trying to get you to admit to the responsibility or reducing the amount of compensation you deserve.
3. Gather Information
While you are waiting for the police to arrive, it is vital to take photographs of everything. Included in this are damage to any vehicle involved, as well as skid marks or anything else which could aid in your case. Also, you should take photos of the passengers and driver of the truck, as well witnesses who may have witnessed the crash. This will prevent you from needing to locate people later on, and will help your lawyer determine who is accountable for the crash.
Make sure to inquire with eyewitnesses whether they'll testify under oath. torrance semi truck accident law firm will ensure that their claims remain true and aren't affected by other people's perceptions of the events. Witness statements are essential to discovering the root of the accident. They can also be used to prove negligence which is one way you can seek compensation from the trucking company.
In addition to eyewitness statements In addition, it is crucial to gather as much detail regarding the trucking company and the driver. This can include an image of the driver's commercial driver's permit as well as their personal qualification and their training file. It could also include a background check, results of a drug screening and safety performance records. This can be subpoenaed by your attorney in the event of a need.
The trucker's phone logs are another significant evidence. This could reveal whether the driver was on the phone at the time the accident took place and could form the basis for an action. The phone records of the trucking company can be used to determine what kind of policies they have in place regarding texting and driving.
It is important to collect all medical documents and bills. This will enable you to prove the severity of the injury and the amount you will be paid for your financial loss. Economic damages are medical expenses loss of earnings, as well as future earning potential. Non-economic damages cover intangible losses like pain and suffering, mental distress and loss of consortium.
If you're interested in filing an accident claim for semi-trucks, an experienced attorney can assist you get all of the information you need and bargain with the insurance company on behalf of you.
4. Contact a lawyer
It's normal for people to feel anxious following a collision with a semi-truck however, it's equally important to remain calm. Don't leave the accident scene, regardless of whether you're injured or not. This is not only unprofessional, but also illegal. Instead, stay on the scene until authorities permit you to leave.
Note any damage to your vehicle or personal property as and any injuries you've sustained. It is best to do this through video/pictures if possible, although notes will do too. It is also important to note down the name of the driver and company they work for in case this information can be useful later on in your case. Talk to witnesses and collect their contact information as quickly as you can. It's also beneficial to take photos of the scene before you begin cleaning up since they can be used as evidence should it be needed.
If you've been hurt by a semi truck accident it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately and get in touch with the police immediately. It's also vital not to admit fault, as this could hinder your chances of getting an equitable settlement for your claim. If a trucking firm contacts you with a proposal to settle, it's best to accept the offer but politely decline, and then contact an attorney.
You may be able recover damages from the person at fault in a semi truck accident. The most common type is economic compensatory damage, which is intended to cover any financial expenses you might have suffered in the aftermath of the crash. This could include hospital expenses or ongoing treatment as well as any loss of income due to your injuries.
In addition, to the economic compensatory damages, you could also be eligible for punitive damages from the at-fault party. They are designed to punish the defendant and discourage similar behavior in the future. This kind of compensation may be difficult to prove in court, however there are some factors which can help you determine an amount that is fair. These include the records from the trucker's driver's log electronic driving records, evidence of cell phone usage, as well as reports or opinions of forensic or financial experts.