After the Accident
What you do right after a truck accident can significantly impact your case. The sooner you hire a trucking accident attorney, the better. At Beasley Allen, we leverage our extensive experience to identify when commercial vehicle and truck companies compromise safety for profit. We understand that product failures can involve multiple responsible parties.
Our team guides you through the entire process, providing clear options to help you make the best decisions for you and your family. Here are some steps to protect your health and your right to seek financial compensation:
- Ensure Safety: Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries. Call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt.
- Call the Police: Report the accident to the police. They will document the scene and create an official report.
- Gather Information: Collect details from the truck driver, including their name, contact information, insurance details, and the trucking company’s name. Also, note the truck’s license plate number and any other relevant details.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. These can be crucial for your insurance claim.
- Get Witness Information: If there are any witnesses, get their names and contact information. Their statements can be valuable later.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it’s important to get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with all the collected information and documentation.
- Consult an Attorney: Consider speaking with a lawyer who specializes in truck accidents. They can help protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.
The Process
Our thorough investigation of truck accidents is the foundation of your claim. We make sure to identify all possible sources of liability, even those that might be overlooked by others.
Accident Investigation At A Glance:
- Reconstruct the crash scene and document debris and road markings.
- Check for driver fatigue, distractions, substance use, and safety violations.
- Review the driver’s background for any criminal history.
- Analyze data from the truck’s “black box” and GPS, review video footage, inspect the truck for defects, and examine its maintenance records and load information.
- Investigate the trucking company’s accident history and safety violations, assess their culture, driver screening, training protocols, and monitoring systems.
We are dedicated to seeking the maximum compensation for your losses. We build a strong case based on solid evidence and determine the full extent of the damages you have suffered. While your recovery will depend on various factors, we are committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome.
Looking At Liability
In a truck accident case, multiple parties can be held liable depending on various factors such as the driver’s hiring and training, their working hours, and the truck’s condition. Potentially liable parties include:
- The truck owner
- The person or company that loaded the cargo
- The person or company that leased the truck
- The manufacturer of the vehicle, tires, or other parts
Trucking companies often try to avoid liability by claiming the driver was not their employee or that they don’t own the equipment. However, a skilled truck accident attorney can navigate these challenges effectively.
Navigating Negligence
When trucking companies or drivers are negligent, they put everyone on the road at risk. Here are some common signs of negligence:
Trucking Company Negligence
- Ignoring Safety Regulations: Allowing trucks with faulty parts to operate.
- Unrealistic Deadlines: Pressuring drivers to meet impossible schedules.
- Poor Training: Not providing adequate training for drivers.
- Unqualified Drivers: Hiring drivers who can’t safely handle large vehicles.
- Improper Loading: Allowing trucks to be loaded incorrectly.
Truck Driver Negligence
- Fatigue: Driving without enough rest due to tight deadlines.
- Substance Use: Operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Speeding: Driving too fast, making the truck hard to control.
- Unsafe Lane Changes: Changing lanes without proper caution.
- Blind Spots: Failing to check all mirrors and blind spots.
Negligent truck drivers and companies can be held responsible for accidents and damages. It’s crucial for both to prioritize safety to prevent catastrophic outcomes.
