What To Do If You Are Involved in a Truck Accident

Trucks are involved in thousands of accidents each year, and the type of accidents involving trucks (semi-trucks, vans, dump trucks, fire trucks, and tractor trailers) can be very serious due to the size of the vehicles involved and the potential danger of what the truck may be carrying. As a result of the tremendous size and weight of these vehicles, collisions that involve trucks often cause serious injuries and fatalities to people in smaller passenger vehicles. Another significant difference between an auto accident and an accident involving a semi-truck or a tractor-trailer is that the truck is usually owned by a company, either large or small.

The government has created more laws to make trucking safer and to reduce the risk of accidents, and trucking companies have increased safety procedures, training, and awareness for their trucking staff; however, due to the growing number of trucks on the road, the number of truck accidents has increased.

People involved in a truck accident could be eligible for compensation, and there are now many lawyers who are experienced in dealing with truck accident claims.

If you or a loved one is involved in an accident involving a truck, you should obtain the following information as soon as safely possible after the accident:

A copy of the police report, including the report number and the name of the investigating officer(s)
License plate number of all vehicles involved
Any company names or identification information on the cab and trailer
Driver information including name, drivers license number, and insurance information
Insurance information for the truck and trailer owner
Length of skid marks if visible
The condition of the truck's tires
Road conditions at the time of the accident
Names and contact information of any witnesses
Names and contact information of anyone taking pictures or questioning witnesses/participants

In addition to gathering the above information:

Take photographs of all vehicles involved and of the scene of the accident (if possible)
Seek medical attention as soon as possible
Obtain a copy of your medical examination report
Contact a truck accident attorney as soon as possible

You should also be aware of what not to do if involved in a truck accident:

Do not make statements without first discussing the situation with an attorney. If asked to give a statement to police, only state specific facts. Do not state opinions or accept responsibility for the accident
Do not sign anything other than the police report (after thoroughly reading it)

Federal laws that govern the trucking industry are different than automobile laws, and these differences drastically change the way an accident is handled. You need someone on your side that understands the complexity of trucking law and is prepared to fight to get you the compensation you deserve.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident in Washington D.C, Maryland or Virginia, please contact one of the dedicated truck accident attorneys at Chaikin & Sherman, P.C. today.

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