This Week's Top Stories About Semi Truck Case
How to Make a Semi Truck Accident Legal
On the nation's roads collisions with semi trucks are not common. Because of their intimidating size, the injuries sustained when a collision occurs with a truck may be serious.
If you have been injured in a car accident An experienced attorney can help you get the compensation you're due. Learn about the different kinds of truck accidents and how they affect your case.
1. Investigate the cause of the accident
Evidence must be gathered immediately after an accident. This is particularly crucial when it comes to semi-trucks. There are a variety of sources of information, like the black-box data of the truck driver's cell phone records. It is also possible for other devices to be used for evidence, including crash data recorders or a truck's "nanny camera." All of this information can help determine the cause of the accident and who was at fault.
In any semi-truck accident it is imperative to involve the police as quickly as you can. This will guarantee a complete and accurate report of the incident. Without a proper and thorough investigation by the police, it could be very difficult to prove what actually happened and who was at fault in the crash.
After the police arrive at your home, you should respond to any questions only to the extent you feel at ease. Do not make up your mind or guess at anything to try to improve your image. 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 on the scene, including photos of both vehicles as well as the surrounding area. The police officer will take down the names and phone numbers of any witnesses who may have witnessed the accident. In addition, it's an excellent idea to take photos of the license plate of the truck as well as any other identifying marks that are on the vehicle or trailer.
One of the most frequent causes of semi-truck accidents is rear-end collisions. These typically occur when a car or truck is following too closely. In these instances, the truck driver will likely slam the rear of the vehicle or truck in front of him, causing severe or fatal injuries.
Other causes of semi-truck crashes include tire blowouts shifting loads, poor maintenance of the trailer or truck and many more. A personal injury lawyer who can address these issues can help prove liability for your damages. In most instances, the driver of the truck is responsible for any accidents caused by their negligence. However, there are other routes to compensation that could be pursued if the source of the accident was not related to, 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 semi-trucks happens. They will arrive at the scene and take official statements regarding 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 keep reports on site at their precincts, for 30 days in the event that the incident occurred near the area where you live (or where you can easily visit in person) You should visit the police station and get the report. Alternatively, you can use the NYPD's website to request reports.
In addition to speaking with the police, it's crucial to gather information from everyone involved in the accident. santa clarita semi truck accident law firm includes the truck driver, passengers and any other witnesses. You should try to find their name, phone number, insurance information, and company name. If you are able, also take pictures or videos of the scene. This will help you to document the accident, and will also give an image record of the moment of the collision.
Accidents involving trucks are usually caused by driver error or a mistake. This could result from drowsiness distracted driving, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs or speeding. These dangers are particularly pronounced when driving heavy, big vehicles.
Another cause of semi accidents is bad road or weather conditions. Trucks are not easy to maneuver, so when they're driven in bad conditions, they could become uncontrollable and collide with smaller vehicles.
Improper maintenance of the trailer or truck is the third major reason for truck accidents. A truck that is not maintained properly can be dangerous because it is more likely to overturn or experience mechanical issues. This could be due to inclement weather, driver fatigue or a lack of care by the trucking company.
A lawyer who handles a truck accident will investigate the incident, determine all responsible parties and gather evidence to prove your case. They will also handle all communication with the insurance company of the trucking firm so you don't need to be concerned about them trying fool you into admitting to fault or reducing the amount of compensation you're entitled to.
3. Gather Information
While you are waiting for the police to arrive, it is important that you take photographs of everything. Included in this are the damage to any vehicles involved as well as skid marks and anything else that could help your case. You should also take pictures of the passengers and driver of the truck, as well as any witnesses who may have witnessed the incident. You won't have to look for them later, and your lawyer will be in a position to determine who is accountable.
Make sure to inquire with eyewitnesses if they will speak under the oath. This will ensure that their claims are true and don't get influence by other people's perceptions of events. Witness statements are crucial for determining the cause of the accident. They can be used to prove negligence, which is one way you can seek compensation from the trucking company.
It is important to collect all the information you can about the trucking company, the driver, and their background. This could include a copy of the driver's commercial driver's license along with their qualification for employment and their training file. It may also include a history check, drug screening results and safety performance records. Your attorney may subpoena this information should it be required.
The trucker's telephone records are another important evidence. This will show whether the trucker was actually on the phone at the incident, and it could provide grounds for a lawsuit. The phone records of the trucking firm can be used to determine if they have guidelines regarding texting while driving.
It is essential to keep all medical records and bills. This will help you prove the extent of the injury and the amount you must be compensated for your financial losses. Economic damages cover medical expenses loss of earnings, as well as future earning potential. Non-economic losses include intangible damages such as pain and suffering mental distress, and loss of consortium.
An experienced lawyer can help you gather all the information you need and negotiate on behalf of you with the insurance company if you want to file an insurance claim for a semi-truck.
4. Contact a Lawyer
It's normal for people to feel anxious after a collision involving a semi-truck however, it's equally important to remain calm. Don't leave the crash scene, regardless of whether you're injured or not. This is not only unprofessional, but also illegal. Stay on the scene as long as you are allowed to by authorities.
When you arrive at the scene, note any damage to your vehicle or personal property and any injuries you may have sustained. If you can, it's recommended to document the incident using video or pictures. However notes can also be used. This information can be very useful in the future. Additionally, talk to witnesses that you know and get their contact numbers immediately if you can. It's also helpful to have photos of the crash site before any cleanup is underway because they can be used as evidence if needed.
If you've been injured in a semi truck accident It is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible and contact the police. It's also important to not admit guilt as this could reduce your chances of obtaining a fair settlement. If the trucking company contacts you with an offer to settle, it's best to accept the offer but politely decline, and then contact a lawyer.
You may be able to collect damages from the party who is at the fault in a semi-truck crash. The most basic is economic compensatory damage, which is meant to reimburse any monetary expenses you might have suffered in the aftermath of the accident. These could include emergency hospital visits, room charges continuing treatments, and any loss of income as a result of the injuries you suffered.
You could also be entitled to punitive damages in addition to economic damages. These are intended to punish the defendant and deter similar behavior in the future. This type of compensation can be difficult to prove in court, but there are certain aspects which can help you determine an amount that is fair. This includes the trucker's log electronic driving records, evidence of use of cell phones, as well as statements or opinions of forensic or financial experts.