According to a recent report from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, an estimated 500,000 accidents involving commercial drivers take place each year in the United States. Those types of collisions have surged by almost 50 percent over the last decade with more commercial vehicles being on the roads. In some cases, they can result in more serious injuries than accidents involving standard passenger vehicles alone.
Commercial accident cases can be particularly complicated. In many instances, more than one party can be held responsible for victims’ injuries and other damages. At the same time, proving who is at fault and to what extent can be difficult. Following the right legal procedures after collisions with commercial drivers can make a world of difference in the outcomes of victims’ cases.
Seek Medical Attention
After being involved in an accident with a commercial vehicle, the first and most important step to take is seeking medical attention. That’s the case even if you don’t think you’re injured or your injuries seem minor. This may seem obvious, but its importance runs deeper than most people realize. Besides ensuring your injuries are properly treated, it creates documentation. That’ll be essential for your case later on. Without that documentation, you may not be able to prove that your injuries were a result of the accident.
Gather Evidence and Information at the Scene
Another crucial measure to take is gathering evidence at the scene of the accident if you’re able. That could include taking pictures or videos of skid marks, damage to your vehicle and the commercial vehicle, any visible injuries you have, road conditions, and other relevant details. Be sure to get the license plate and Department of Transportation numbers of the commercial vehicle along with the name of the company the driver works for and their insurance information too.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Be sure to notify your insurance company as soon as possible as well, even if the accident was the commercial driver’s fault and you don’t plan to file a claim with your own coverage provider. Keep answers to their questions short and concise, though. Never volunteer unnecessary details or admit that you might have been partially to blame.
Consult With a Personal Injury Attorney
Having a personal injury attorney on your side is also recommended. In all likelihood, the company the commercial driver works for and any other parties who may be to blame have teams of lawyers working for them. On top of that, their insurance companies have their own best interests at heart, not yours.
Your attorney will determine whether you have a case and ensure you understand your rights. From there, they’ll investigate to find where the fault lies and use critical evidence to strengthen your case. They’ll also speak with the responsible parties’ insurance companies on your behalf and work to ensure they don’t try to settle for less than your injuries and losses are worth.
File a Claim or Lawsuit
After your attorney has established fault, they’ll prepare a personal injury claim to demand compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. If those responsible for the accident don’t offer a fair settlement, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit. In that case, they’ll advocate for you in court to get the justice and compensation you’re entitled to.
Following Proper Legal Procedures After Your Accident
Collisions involving commercial vehicles can be more complex than other accidents. Proving who is at fault and ensuring the right parties are held responsible for their negligence usually isn’t a straightforward process. Numerous factors may come into play. Following the procedures listed here will help establish and strengthen your case and improve your chances of getting the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
