If you’re like most people, the thought of driving next to a semi-truck can be incredibly intimidating. Despite the fact that these vehicles are integral to ensuring that products and goods are delivered around the nation, a full truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making accidents involving these vehicles catastrophic. As such, if you are involved in an accident with a truck, understanding your legal options is imperative. The following blog explores what you should know about these difficult matters and why connecting with a Broward County truck accident lawyer is in your best interest during these complicated matters.
How Do Accidents Involving a Semi-Truck Happen?
Unfortunately, there are a number of factors that can contribute to accidents involving semi-trucks. While many occur just as traditional accidents do, meaning driver errors, there are other factors that can contribute to these accidents. Some examples of causes for accidents involving these vehicles include:
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence
- Ignoring the posted speed limit
- Disobeying traffic laws and signs
- Driving past the hours of service limitations
- Skipping the pre-trip checklist
It’s also important to understand that if a driver or their logistics company does not ensure the vehicle receives regular maintenance and inspections, mechanical issues can go unnoticed and lead to a collision. For example, you may find that tire blowouts, brake line failure, and power steering issues can result in catastrophic accidents. It’s also important to note that if the truck is overloaded or loaded improperly, it can result in a collision.
What Should I Do After?
If you are involved in a collision with a semi-truck, by far the most important thing you should do is seek medical attention. Unfortunately, many mistake the adrenaline in their body masking the pain as a sign they are okay, which is often far from the truth. Ensuring you call emergency services to the scene to examine the injuries you’ve endured is critical. The EMTs that arrive can assess the severity of the injuries and advise you on how to proceed.
You should, if possible, take as many photos and videos of the accident scene as you can. This includes the damage to both vehicles, damage to surrounding property, injuries you sustained, road signs and tire marks, and the positioning of both vehicles. This can help capture evidence investigators can use to determine liability in the collision.
Unfortunately, accidents involving vehicles of this size can often have devastating impacts, which is why working with the experienced team at the Finizio Law Group is in your best interest. We understand how catastrophic these collisions can be and how they can affect your family for decades, which is why we are dedicated to doing everything in our power to help you recover the justice you deserve. Connect with us today to learn more about your legal options and how our team can fight for you.
