How to Make a Semi Truck Accident Legal
Collisions involving semi trucks are commonplace on the nation's highways. Due to their size, the injuries sustained when a collision occurs with a truck can be serious.
If you have been injured in a car accident An experienced lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve. Learn about the kinds of truck accidents and how they may affect your case.
1. Investigate the Cause of the Accident
In the event of an accident, the evidence must be preserved and collected right away. This is particularly important when it comes to semi-trucks. This is because there are a myriad of sources of information and evidence including the black box that is used by the truck driver data and phone records. Other devices like crash recorders, or the "nanny camera" on a truck are also a possibility for evidence.
In any semi-truck accident it is imperative to inform the police as soon as you can. This will result in a complete and accurate report of the incident. It is difficult to prove the truth and determine who is responsible for the crash without a thorough and proper police investigation.
It is recommended that you only answer questions as long as it you feel comfortable once the police arrive. Don't think about or speculate to enhance your image. These kinds of answers could later be used by the truck driver, the trucking company or their insurance companies against you in court.
The police officer will gather various evidence from the scene, including photographs of the vehicles as well as the surrounding area. The officer will also take down the names and phone numbers of any witnesses who may have witnessed the incident. Also, it's recommended to take pictures of the license plate of the truck as well as any other identifying marks that are visible on the vehicle or trailer.
One of the most common causes of semi-truck accidents are rear-end collisions. west palm beach semi truck accident lawsuit occur when a truck or car is following too closely. In these instances the driver of the truck will probably smash the back of the vehicle or truck in front of him, inflicting severe or fatal injuries.
Tire blowouts, shifting loads, poor maintenance of trucks or trailers as well as other factors are the main causes of semi-truck crashes. An experienced personal injury lawyer can be a great resource for these issues and can help you determine who is accountable for your injuries. In most instances, the driver of the truck will be liable 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 something else, such as a manufacturing defect in the trailer or truck.
2. Contact the Police
Notifying the police is the first step to take when an accident involving a semi-truck occurs. They will come and make official statements about the accident and any injuries that occurred. This will also give you an official police report to use in your claim for damages. The NYPD keeps reports on the premises at their precincts over 30 days in the event that the incident was close to your home (or in a location that you are able to visit in person) You should visit the location and pick up the report. You can also request a NYPD report online.
Apart from talking to the police, it's important to collect information from all involved in the accident. This includes the truck drivers, passengers and everyone else who was present. Try to find their names, phone numbers, insurance policy information, and the name of the company they work for. If you are able, also take pictures or videos of the scene. This will help you document the accident, and also give a visual record of the moment of impact which could be valuable in the future.
In many instances truck accidents are caused by negligence or driver error. This could include drowsiness or distraction, driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs or speeding. These are all factors that can be risky when driving a large automobile that is heavy and large.
Poor road conditions or weather conditions are another frequent cause of semi-accidents. Trucks can be difficult to maneuver, and when they're driven under poor conditions, they could become unstable and cause collisions with smaller vehicles.
Unprofessional maintenance of the truck or its trailer is a third common cause of truck accidents. Poorly maintained trucks are more likely to tip over or have mechanical issues. This could be due to bad weather, driver fatigue or a lack of care by the trucking company.
A reputable attorney for truck accidents will investigate the crash and determine the responsible parties, and gather evidence to strengthen your case. They will also handle all communications with insurance company of the trucking firm so you don't need to be concerned about them trying get you to admit to the guilt or reducing the amount of compensation you deserve.
3. Gather Information
Photograph everything you see while you wait for the police. Included in this are damages to any vehicle involved, as well as skid marks, or any other evidence that could help your case. You should also take pictures of the driver and passengers of the truck, along with witnesses who might have witnessed the crash. You won't have to search for witnesses later, and your lawyer will be able to determine who is accountable.
When talking to any witnesses, make sure that they are prepared to testify under oath. This will ensure that their testimony remain accurate and are not affected by other people's interpretations of the incidents. Witness statements can be vital in determining the cause of an accident. They may also be used to prove the trucking company's negligence.
In addition to eyewitness statements, it is important to gather as much information about the trucking business and the driver. This could include the driver's personnel qualifications and training files along with a copy commercial driver's license, their history tests, results of drug screening and safety performance records. Your attorney may subpoena this information should it be required.
Another vital piece of evidence is the trucker's telephone records. This will reveal whether the driver was on the phone when the accident occurred, and could be the basis for lawsuit. The records of the trucking company's phones can also be used to determine the type of policies they have in place for texting while driving.
It is also essential to get medical records and bills. This will enable you to establish the extent of your injuries and the amount of compensation that you must receive for your monetary losses. Economic damages cover things like medical expenses loss of earnings, and future earning potential. Non-economic damages are for intangible losses like pain and suffering, mental anguish and loss of consortium.
If you're looking to file a semi truck accident claim An experienced lawyer can help 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 to feel angry after a collision that involves a semi-truck however, it's important to remain calm. If you're injured, or even if you're not leave the scene of the accident. This is not only unprofessional but also illegal. Instead, stay at the scene until authorities permit you to leave.
Document any damage to your car or personal property as in addition to any injuries you've sustained. If possible, it's best to document this incident with photos or videos. However notes are also sufficient. You should also note down the names of the driver and company they work for and this will be helpful later in your case. Additionally, talk to any witnesses you have and get their contact numbers whenever you can. Before you do any cleanup it's a good idea take photographs of the wreckage scene. These can be used as evidence should you require them.
If you've suffered injuries by a semi truck accident it is crucial to seek medical care immediately and contact the police immediately. It's also vital not to admit guilt, as this will hinder the chances of receiving a fair settlement for your claim. If a trucking company calls you with an offer to settle, it's best to be polite and decline the offer and consult an attorney.
There are a variety of damages that you may be able to recover from the party at fault involved in a semi truck accident. The most basic of these is the economic compensatory damages which are intended to reimburse you for any financial losses associated with the wreck. These can include emergency room visits, hospital bills ongoing treatments, and any loss of income resulting from the injuries you suffered.
In addition to economic compensatory damages, you could also be able to receive punitive damages from the responsible party. They are designed to punish the defendant and discourage similar behaviour in the future. This type of compensation could be difficult to prove in court, but there are certain elements that can help you determine a fair amount. These include the logs of the trucker electronic driving records, evidence of mobile phone use and also reports or opinions from forensic or financial experts.