Have you or a loved one been injured in a trucking accident here in Massachusetts? If the answer is yes whether it was an 18-wheeler, semi-truck, bus, motor home, commercial truck or delivery van you have certain legal rights.
Truck accident cases are challenging personal injury cases. They are different from other types of accidents because of the rules regulating drivers. Long-haul truck drivers are subject to Department of Transportation regulations regarding minimum rest period requirements. Keep in mind that the braking systems on tractor-trailer trucks are not conducive to stopping quickly and require diligent maintenance and optimization protocols.
In addition, there are complex issues around fault. Often, cases have unique safety, negligence, settlement damages and considerations. Certain circumstances may create the need for an accident reconstruction expert’s testimony in order to persuade the jury of negligent operation by the truck driver.
Unfortunately, while all of this is ongoing, the bills start piling up and lives are being turned upside-down due to life-changing injuries or circumstances.
What should I do after being in a truck accident?
- First things first, make sure you and any others check for injuries and get to a safe spot as quickly as possible.
- Call #911, and report the crash and serious injuries if any.
- Exchange information with any other parties involved. Make sure to get the company/employer AND driver contact information.
- Take photos of the accident
- Seek medical attention immediately or after the accident.
- You should immediately call an experienced trial attorney and start thoroughly collecting as much evidence as you can. Often, insurance companies only pay full compensation at a potential trial when they are convinced that you are well prepared. You may be required to get expert mechanical inspections. The key to a successful case is having evidence and a prompt investigation can help.
Here’s a few examples of what should be considered when looking for evidence:
- Truck driver logs
- Truck driver phone records
- Truck driver qualifications
- Medical care/expenses/records
- Vehicle repair/loss expenses
- Witnesses contact information
Ultimately, you should be careful of what you say when talking to the adjuster handling the personal injury claim. They may initiate conversation with you and seem friendly, but they are looking for ways to decrease how much the company should pay you by using whatever you say or do against you.
We are on your side so here’s a tip: Do not speak with the other party’s insurance company until you speak with an attorney. You are not obligated to speak to them nor provide recorded statements if you do not feel comfortable.
What if it has been days, weeks, or months since the accident?
Do not worry if time has passed since the accident date. We can still help you, but you need to act fast as time could be running out for your claim because some insurance companies have deadlines for filing a claim after you have been in an accident.