Have you been injured in an accident involving a semi-truck? Do you know what to do? Is it different than a typical car collision?
Every year semi-trucks are involved in thousands of injury accidents, some of which cause fatalities. Even though there is an obvious difference in the size of the vehicle, there are other, not-so-obvious differences as well. Nearly all the time, semis are driven by professional drivers. The drivers earn their living driving these big rigs, so they are held to a higher standard than others. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has regulations in place that commercial drivers must obey such as load limits, hours driven, and licensing requirements.
How Semi-Truck Accidents Are Different
Obviously, the trucks are larger. This can mean a couple of things. It takes them longer to stop. In fact, it takes them up to forty times longer to stop than a car. Therefore, if you are hit by a semi, they do more damage and create more severe injuries and higher medical bills. Their insurance has higher limits than traditional personal vehicle policies. And that means the insurance companies fight harder against claims against them. This is why you should seek help from a reliable truck accident attorney.
What Are the Common Reasons for Semi-Truck Accidents?
Commercial truck drivers are often paid by the mile, so in order to earn more money, they sometimes drive longer than they should. Driver fatigue is a common cause of semi-truck accidents. When fatigued, they become careless, and inattentive, and could even become drowsy or fall asleep while driving. Though their driving time is limited by law, they sometimes push the limit or go over their allowed time for driving.
Recently there has been a driver shortage, some drivers that are on the road today are inexperienced and make mistakes while behind the wheel. They are often reckless, misjudge distances, and drive too fast for the conditions. This lack of experience sometimes has the driver following too closely or loading their cargo incorrectly. In addition, inexperienced drivers may have difficulty driving over wet or icy roads safely.
Commercial drivers have even more distractions than the average driver of a personal vehicle. Phone calls, texts, GPS, and other electronic devices can cause a driver to lose focus. They can also be distracted by the radio, a passenger, or eating while driving.
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can affect a driver’s reflexes and prompt them to make unsafe, irresponsible decisions that result in accidents.
Vehicles that are not kept in good repair can also be the cause of semi crashes. Because of the size and weight of the trucks, the tires and brakes must be in good condition, as well as the other components that keep the truck operating optimally. Malfunctions of the equipment or vehicle could also be a manufacturer defect.
If you’ve been involved in a semi-truck accident, it’s important to seek legal guidance from experienced lawyers for truck drivers.
What You Should Do If You Are Involved in a Semi-Truck Accident
- As with any vehicle accident, the first thing you should do is dial 9-1-1 for emergency services if you are physically able. Quickly assess the situation so you can advise the injuries to the dispatch if possible. This will get the right assistance sent to your location.
- If your injuries allow, check on other passengers, and the driver of the other vehicle. Get as much information as possible, such as insurance, the trucking company name, and any evidence that you can gather at the scene. Use your phone to take pictures of damage and injuries if possible.
- Seek medical attention. Even if your injuries do not seem severe enough at the time, some injuries will not show up right away.
- Keep track of all your medical records and bills. Do not talk with the semi-driver’s insurance company. Do not sign any documents.
- Contact a personal injury attorney who has experience dealing with semi-truck accidents.
How Much Is My Case Worth?
Once you have consulted with a truck accident attorney, they will be able to give you an idea as to how much your case is worth. The compensation is based on a few things such as the severity of your injuries, the length of your recovery, the percentage of responsibility that is yours (if any), and the amount of time you cannot work because of your injuries. Your attorney will help you quantify the physical and emotional pain and suffering and any additional expenses you may incur.
What to Do If You Are Involved in a Semi-Truck Accident
If you are involved in a semi-truck accident that was not your fault, you deserve to be compensated for your injuries. Semi-truck accidents can be devastating to you and your family. An accident can impact your personal and professional future. Protect yourself by speaking with a truck accident lawyer today.
About the Author
