How to Make a Semi Truck Accident Legal
Collisions involving semi-trucks are commonplace on the nation's highways. Because of their intimidating size, the injuries sustained when a collision occurs with a vehicle can be severe.
If you have been injured in a truck accident, an experienced attorney can assist you in obtaining the compensation you deserve. Learn about the various types of truck accidents and how they affect your case.
1. Investigate the cause of the accident.
dearborn semi truck accident law firm must be gathered immediately after an accident. This is particularly important in cases involving semi trucks. This is because there are numerous sources of evidence and information including the truck driver's black box data and phone records. Other devices that are technological such as crash recorders, or the "nanny camera" on a truck could also be used as evidence.
In any semi-truck collision it is essential to inform the police as quickly as possible. This will ensure that an accurate and complete report is filed of the incident. Without a thorough and accurate police investigation, it can be very difficult to prove the truth about what happened and who was at fault in the crash.
Once the police arrive and you are questioned, it is recommended to respond to any questions only in the manner that you are at ease. It's not an ideal idea to speculate or guess at anything in an attempt to impress the police. These answers could be used against you by the trucking company or driver in court.
The police officer will take various kinds of evidence on the scene, such as photographs of both 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 accident. Also, it's an excellent idea to take photos of the license plate of the truck as well as any other identifying marks which are found on the vehicle or trailer.
One of the most common causes of semi-truck accidents is rear-end collisions. These kinds of accidents typically occur when a vehicle follows too closely. In these situations the truck driver is most likely to slam into the back of the vehicle in front of them, and often may cause fatal or serious injuries to the passengers in that vehicle or truck.
Tire blowouts, shifting of loads, improper maintenance of trailers or trucks and many other things are the main causes of semi-truck crashes. A reputable personal injury attorney will understand these issues, and can help you prove who is accountable for your losses. In most situations, the truck driver will be liable for any accidents caused by their negligence. However there are other avenues to compensation that could be pursued if the source of the accident was not related to, such as a manufacturing defect in the truck or trailer.
2. Contact the Police
If you're involved in an accident with semi-trucks, the first thing you should make is to contact the police. They will come and make official statements about the accident and any injuries that may have occurred. You will also receive an official police report that you can use to back your claim for damages. The NYPD maintains reports on-site at their precincts, for 30 days which means that if the incident occurred near the area where you live (or which you can easily visit in person) then you should visit the police station and get the report. Alternatively, you can use the NYPD's portal online to request reports.
It's crucial to speak to anyone involved in the incident, including the truck driver and passengers. This includes the truck driver, the other passengers, and any other witnesses. Be sure to collect their names, contact numbers, insurance policy information, and the name of the company they work for. It's also an excellent idea to take photos or videos of the scene, if you are able to. This will help you record the incident and provide a visual record the moment of impact, which can be useful in the future.
In many cases, truck accidents are the result of driver error or negligence. This can be caused by drowsiness or distraction, driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs or speeding. These factors can be especially risky when driving a large and heavy vehicle.
Weather or road conditions that aren't ideal are another common cause of semi-accidents. Trucks can be difficult to maneuver, so when they're driven under poor conditions, they can easily become unstable and cause collisions with smaller vehicles.
Incorrect maintenance of the truck or its trailer is a third common cause of truck accidents. A vehicle that is not properly maintained can be dangerous because it is more likely to overturn or suffer mechanical malfunctions. This could be due inclement weather, driver fatigue or a lack of care by the trucking company.
A reputable truck accident lawyer will investigate the crash and determine the responsible parties, and gather evidence to prove your case. They will also handle any communications with the insurance company of the trucking company's business, so you don't be worried that they attempt to convince you into accepting blame or reducing your compensation.
3. Gather Information
Take pictures of everything while you wait for the police. Included in this are damage to any vehicles involved as well as skid marks and 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 might have witnessed the crash. This will avoid having to track people down later, and it will help your lawyer determine who is responsible for the accident.
Be sure to ask eyewitnesses whether they'll be able to speak under oath. This will ensure that their accounts are accurate and are not influence by other people's perceptions of events. Witness statements are essential to discovering the root of the accident. They are also used to prove negligence which is one way you can receive compensation from the trucking company.
In addition to eyewitness statements, it is important to gather as much detail about the trucking business and the driver. This could include the driver's personnel qualifications and training files as well as a copy of their commercial driver's license, history tests, results of drug screening and safety performance reports. This information can be requested by your attorney in the event of a need.
Another important piece of evidence is the trucker's phone records. It can be used to determine if the driver was on the phone at the time the accident happened, and could be the basis for lawsuit. The trucking company's phone records can also be used to determine what kind of policies they have set in place regarding texting while driving.
In the end, it is crucial to get medical records and bills. This will help you prove the severity of your injury and the amount you must be compensated for your financial losses. Economic damages cover things such as medical expenses, loss of earnings and the potential for future earnings. Non-economic losses include intangible damages such as pain and suffering, mental distress and loss of consortium.
If you're looking to file an accident claim for semi-trucks An experienced attorney will be able to help you gather all of the information you need and negotiate with the insurance company on behalf of you.
4. Contact a Lawyer
It's normal to feel upset after a collision with semi-trucks, but it's also important to remain calm. Don't leave the crash scene, regardless of whether you're injured or not. Not only does this look unprofessional, but it's also unlawful. Stay on the scene as long as you are permitted by the authorities.
Document any damage that has occurred to your car or personal property, as also any injuries you've suffered. If you can, it's recommended to document the incident using video or pictures. However notes will suffice. This information could prove useful in the future. In addition, speak with witnesses you can find and get their contact information as soon as possible. It's also helpful to take photographs of the wreckage site before any cleanup begins as they can be used as evidence if required.
If you've been injured in a semi-truck crash it is imperative to seek medical attention immediately and call the police. It's also crucial to not admit fault since this can hinder your chances of getting a fair settlement. If the trucking company contacts you and offers to settle you should decline it politely and get in touch with an attorney.
There are many different kinds of damages that you might be able to claim from the party at fault in a semi truck crash. The most basic is economic compensatory damage, which is designed to reimburse any monetary damages you could have suffered in the aftermath of the crash. This can include emergency room visits, hospital charges continuing treatments, and any loss of income due to the injuries you suffered.
You could also be entitled to punitive damages in addition to the economic damages. These are meant to punish the defendant for their negligent actions and deter similar behavior in the future. This kind of compensation can be difficult to prove in court, however there are certain elements that can assist you in determining a fair amount. This includes the log of the trucker as well as electronic data from the driver's seat and evidence of use of cell phones and the opinions or reports of financial or forensic experts.