Truck accidents (semi-trucks, vans, dump trucks, fire trucks, and tractor trailers) account for over 20 billion dollars a year in damages, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. With so much money on the line, it’s easy to see why trucking and insurance company personnel arrive on the scene of a trucking accident so quickly. These industry representatives are collecting statements, pictures and information to protect the legal and monetary interests of their clients.
If you have ever been in an auto accident, you may think you know what to do in the even of a truck accident. What you might not know is that trucking accidents are different than automobile accidents because of federal laws governing the trucking industry. For example, federal trucking regulations require that evidence must be maintained but only for a limited amount of time. This means evidence pertaining to your accident can legally be destroyed after six months if an attorney doesn’t obtain a court order and take immediate action.
If you are involved in a truck accident, it is imperative to understand the steps you should take to protect yourself.
Obtain the following information:
A copy of the police report
License plate number of the truck
Any names or identification on the cab and trailer
Driver information including name, license number, and all contact and insurance information
Insurance information for truck owner
Length of skid marks (if possible)
Condition of truck
Names and info about any witnesses
In addition to gathering the above information, you should:
Take photographs if possible
See a medical doctor for examination as soon as possible
Obtain a copy of your medical report
Contact a truck accident attorney
Do not give any statements without first talking to your experienced truck accident attorney, and do not sign anything without first talking to your attorney. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a truck accident in Texas, please contact Jim Adler & Associates, Texas Injury Lawyers, today to schedule your initial consultation.
