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Car accidents happen every single day in the United States, some of which are more serious than others. Some of the most devastating accidents involve large trucks or tractor trailers. Due in large part to the sheer size of these types of trucks, the injuries sustained by victims can be life-changing. Trucking accidents are very different from your typical accident for many reasons. For one, it is not only the truck driver who can be held liable for your injuries, but the trucking company that employs them as well.
In recent years there has been a spotlight on the trucking industry and its various practices. We have seen a spike in the number of accidents involving large trucks, which has given us reason to reflect and investigate why this is. One of the main reasons we are seeing more trucking accidents than in the past is because of driver fatigue. While there are regulations in place that truck drivers and their companies must follow, they are often violated. Truckers are supposed to rest after a specific amount of time has gone by, but many opt to push through their tiredness in order to make it home or to their next destination. By making the decision to drive tired or fatigued, these truck drivers are putting themselves and others on the roadways in danger.
Steps to Take After a Trucking Accident
Here are a few steps you should take if you have been involved in a trucking accident:
Step 1: Contact the Police
Before you do anything else, make sure you call the police. Depending on the circumstances, chances are the police will need to get involved and will play an important role in ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Step 2: Assess Yourself and Others for Injuries
While you are waiting for the police to arrive, assess your own condition and the condition of the other drivers involved to ensure no injuries have been sustained. In accidents that involve large trucks, chances are someone will be injured. It is imperative that you proceed with caution and call an ambulance right away if this is the case.
Step 3: Stay at the Scene
Whatever you do, do NOT leave the scene of the accident. With this, make sure everything remains as is while you wait for the authorities. Every little detail will be important when pursuing a personal injury case against the trucking company, should the truck driver be held liable. Leave all the vehicles as they are and do your best to stand off to the side or sit in your vehicle while you wait for the police.
Step 4: Take Pictures and Gather Evidence
Take pictures of the scene of the accident, including all vehicles involved, the road, and anything else that may help your case. You should also talk to any witnesses and jot down their statements and contact info. Make sure you don’t alter anything at the scene, simply document it and wait for the police.
Step 5: Call an Attorney
Last but certainly not least, call an attorney following a trucking accident. These types of cases can be quite complicated, especially if the trucking company gets involved. It will be in your best interest to have a knowledgeable and skilled trucking accident attorney by your side, should the case go to court.
If you have been involved in an accident with a truck in Dallas, please contact Rad Law Firm today. Our personal injury attorneys have the experience and the resources necessary to take on your case and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
