Were You Involved in a Motor Vehicle Accident with a Semi Truck?

Accidents involving semi-trucks can lead to devastating injuries due to the sheer size and weight of these massive vehicles. Navigating the aftermath of a collision with a semi can be complex, especially when dealing with commercial trucking companies and their insurance providers. At Golden Coast Trial Attorneys, PC, we have extensive experience in handling motor vehicle accidents with semi-trucks and understand the unique legal challenges these cases present. If you have sustained injuries in such an accident, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Knowing the correct steps to take after a semi-truck accident is crucial to protecting your rights and ensuring a successful claim.

Semi Trucks and Their Legal Obligations

Semi-truck drivers and the companies they work for must adhere to strict regulations set by both state and federal law. These laws require semi-trucks to undergo regular maintenance checks, and drivers must meet specific qualifications, including obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and adhering to hours-of-service regulations to prevent driver fatigue. Moreover, trucking companies are required to maintain higher insurance coverage due to the potential for severe damage caused by these large vehicles. Despite these heightened legal standards, accidents still happen, often due to driver negligence, poor vehicle maintenance, or violations of safety regulations. If you find yourself involved in such an accident, following the right steps can significantly impact the outcome of your claim.

Steps to Take After a Semi Truck Accident

Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention

• First, check yourself and others for injuries. Call 911 immediately if there are any signs of injury, no matter how minor they seem. Medical records will be crucial in supporting your personal injury claim.

Call Law Enforcement

• Contact the police to report the accident. An official police report is vital evidence when determining fault and documenting the circumstances surrounding the collision. Provide the officers with accurate information but refrain from making statements about who might be at fault.

Document the Scene Thoroughly

• Take pictures and videos of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, road conditions, skid marks, damage to your vehicle, and any visible injuries. Capture the license plate and identification numbers on the semi-truck, including any company logos or signage.

Gather Information

• Obtain the truck driver’s name, contact information, driver’s license number, insurance details, and the name of the trucking company. Also, note the truck’s Department of Transportation (DOT) number, usually displayed on the side of the cab, as this can be used to identify the trucking company and its safety records.

Collect Witness Information

• If there are any witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information. Witness statements can provide an objective account of the incident and support your case in proving negligence.

Seek Immediate Medical Evaluation

• Even if you feel fine, some injuries might not show symptoms right away. A prompt medical evaluation can detect hidden injuries and provide essential documentation for your claim. Keep records of all medical treatments, prescriptions, and follow-up appointments.

Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company

• Notify your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible. However, avoid giving detailed statements or discussing fault with the trucking company’s insurance representatives until you have consulted with an attorney. Insurers often try to minimize payouts, so be cautious in your communication.

Consult an Experienced Attorney Immediately

• Contact Golden Coast Trial Attorneys, PC, for legal guidance. Trucking accidents involve multiple parties, including the driver, trucking company, and their insurers. Our firm has extensive experience in handling these complex cases and will work diligently to investigate the incident, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Do Not Accept Settlement Offers Prematurely

• Trucking companies and their insurers may attempt to settle quickly to limit their liability. Do not accept any settlement offers without consulting your attorney, as these initial offers often fall far short of covering your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Protecting Your Rights After a Semi Truck Accident

Accidents involving semi-trucks often lead to severe injuries and complicated legal battles. The trucking companies and their insurers have teams of professionals working to protect their interests. At Golden Coast Trial Attorneys, PC, we level the playing field by providing experienced legal representation to ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to under the law.

Contact Golden Coast Trial Attorneys, PC

If you or a loved one is involved in an accident with a semi-truck, contact our office immediately for legal support. We will provide a free consultation to discuss your case and guide you through the next steps. Contact us at (833) 952-9669 or email us at [email protected]. Visit our website at www.GCTA.law for more information. Let our experience work for you in securing the maximum compensation for your injuries.