What Happens if You’re Injured in a Truck Accident?

Sara Canning

In the year 2023, truck accidents caused 5,078 deaths and over 86,000 injuries. Truck accidents are devastating as they are big in size and weight. Victims sustain grievous injuries and have to bear financial burdens and emotional issues. Consulting a truck accident lawyer who can guide you through the legal process is important to secure fair compensation.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Truck Accident

Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention: Immediately after a truck accident, it is vital to move to a safe location if possible and dial emergency services. Medical attention should be sought if there are no injuries or seemingly minor injuries. Not all injuries manifest externally. Some injuries are internal. Internal injuries or concussions take time to show immediate symptoms and can be fatal in a short time.

Report the Accident: The law enforcement agency should be informed immediately. Provide an accurate account of the incident without any speculation or admitting fault. The report will serve as crucial evidence during the filing of the claims.

Document the Scene: Evidence collection from the site of the accident is crucial to strengthen your case. Photographic evidence helps in assessing:

• Vehicle damage

• Road conditions

• Visible injuries

• Traffic signs or signals

Also, collect contact information and witness statements from the witness and the truck driver.

Common Injuries Sustained in Truck Accidents

Truck accidents result in severe injuries, including:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Sudden, forceful impact as a result of collision.

• Spinal Cord Injuries: Can result in partial or complete paralysis.

• Fractures: Brought on by the force of a truck collision.

• Internal Injuries: Caused by blunt force trauma.

• Emotional Trauma: Emotional issues such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Often the injuries are severe, necessitating long-term medical care and rehabilitation, sometimes lifelong, which can add to the financial and emotional strain.

Determining Liability in Truck Accidents

Financial dues can be heavy, and if multiple parties are responsible, it can be complex. Liable parties may include:

• Driver: Driver of the truck for negligent actions such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence.

• Transport Companies: Improper vehicle maintenance, unsafe schedules, or inadequate driver training.

• Vehicle Manufacturers: Defective parts causing malfunction.

• Cargo Loaders: Overloading the cargo and not securing the cargo adequately.

A thorough investigation will be required to prove the onus of liability in an accident. In many instances, this will involve reconstruction experts and legal professionals.

Types of Compensation Available

Legal provisions entitle the victims of truck accidents to various types of compensation. They include:

1. Economic Damages

Tangible financial losses covered, such as:

• Present and future medical expenses

• Loss of income present and future

• Damage to the property

2. Non-Economic Damages

Intangible or non-physical damage includes:

• Suffering and distress

• Psychological anguish

• Inability to enjoy life

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are awarded in the case of obvious negligence, such as ignoring malfunctioning and safety concerns.

How a Lawyer Can Help

As truck accidents involve federal and state bodies of law, the question of accountability is often complicated and hostile to insurance companies. The attorneys will help by:

• Thoroughly investigating the accident

• Determine all liable parties

• Hold talks with insurance adjusters

• Strengthen the case to secure fair compensation

Professional representation by truck accident lawyers will ensure that the victims are represented by experienced experts.

Federal and State Regulations in Trucking

The primary intention of federal and state regulations is to ensure road safety in the commercial trucking industry. For example:

• Hours of Service Rules: Fixes driver's hours to operate a vehicle.

• Weight Restrictions: Restricts the weight that a vehicle can carry.

• Maintenance Standards: Regular inspections and repairs for vehicle maintenance.

If the above-mentioned rules are violated, it invites the imposition of liability on the offensive party.

Conclusion

As a victim of a truck accident, life can change drastically. Victims must focus on recovering physically and emotionally in addition to facing legal issues. Being aware of your rights and seeking counsel from experienced attorneys can help you in obtaining the compensation required to rebuild your life again.