Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic experience, especially when it involves a collision with a corporate truck. Accidents with commercial trucks can result in severe injuries, extensive vehicle damage, and complex legal proceedings. In such situations, knowing what steps to take immediately after the crash is crucial for your safety, well-being, and legal rights.
How a Collision With Corporate Truck Differs
A collision with a corporate truck differs from a typical car accident in several significant ways. First and foremost, corporate trucks are often operated by commercial entities or companies rather than individual drivers. This means that the legal aspects of the accident can be more complex due to the involvement of a corporate entity.
In many cases, corporate trucking companies have huge financial resources to protect their assets and mitigate their liabilities in the event of accidents. Consider the example of a recent tanker truck crash. According to The Philadelphia Inquirer, the accident occurred when the driver lost control when coming off a ramp. It happened near the Betsy Ross Bridge in Philadelphia.
The news covered by the website states that the truck belonged to the TK Transport company. The company was also involved in a similar crash in 2015, with over $1 million in damages.
Moreover, corporate truck drivers are typically held to higher standards of training, licensing, and compliance with safety regulations compared to non-commercial drivers. However, despite these regulations, corporate truck accidents can still occur due to factors such as driver fatigue, mechanical failures, or improper maintenance.
Another key difference is the potential involvement of multiple parties in a corporate truck collision case. In addition to the truck driver, other parties may be responsible for the accident, such as the trucking company, vehicle manufacturers, etc. Identifying all liable parties and establishing their degree of fault can be crucial in determining the case’s outcome.
Furthermore, corporate truck accidents often result in more severe injuries and damages than typical car accidents. This is due to the size, weight, and force of impact of commercial trucks. Victims of truck collisions may suffer from catastrophic injuries such as spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, multiple fractures, or even wrongful death. As a result, the medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and long-term care needs associated with these injuries can be substantial.
Tips to Win Against Corporates in Truck Accident Lawsuits
You must be prepared and strategic when facing corporations in truck accident lawsuits. Here are some tips to help you navigate the legal process and increase your chances of success:
Hire an Experienced Attorney
Hiring an experienced attorney is perhaps the most critical step when facing a truck accident lawsuit against a corporate entity. Truck accident cases involve many complexities, including federal and state regulations, multiple pirates involved, etc. An attorney with specialized knowledge and experience in this area understands the nuances of trucking laws.
According to TorHoerman Law, a seasoned attorney can navigate the legal landscape effectively. They can ensure that your rights are protected and your interests are represented to the fullest extent possible. They possess a deep understanding of the investigative process, knowing what evidence to gather and how to interpret it. This can be particularly crucial when going up against large corporations with their teams of legal experts and resources.
Moreover, an experienced attorney brings invaluable insight into the strategies and tactics commonly used by corporate defendants. They can anticipate potential challenges and counterarguments, proactively addressing them to strengthen your case and maximize your chances of success. Their familiarity with the nuances of the legal system allows them to navigate procedural hurdles, deadlines, and court requirements efficiently and precisely.
However, it is vital to hire a local attorney to ensure the best results. That’s because a local lawyer will know the location-specific regulations and information that can prove crucial in winning the lawsuit.
For example, Fox2Now reports that an Amazon delivery truck was involved in an accident in downtown St. Louis. The crash occurred around 1:00 a.m. on the 4th Street of Washington Avenue. The accident involved a couple of cars and a tractor-trailer. There were five people in the crash, and all of them refused medical treatment.
In such scenarios, it is best to hire a St. Louis truck accident lawyer instead of an attorney from another state. The local attorney will serve as your advocate, offering clarity, reassurance, and strategic counsel at every stage of the proceedings. Beyond their legal expertise, a seasoned attorney provides invaluable support and guidance throughout the legal process.
Assess Your Safety and Call Emergency Services
After any car accident, the priority is to assess your safety and those of others involved. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries and seek medical attention immediately. If it’s safe, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further accidents and hazards.
Regardless of the accident’s severity, it’s essential to notify the authorities. Call emergency services, including the police and medical assistance, to report the accident and request help. A police report filed at the accident scene can be invaluable for legal proceedings later.
Document the Accident Scene
Documenting evidence is critical to building a solid case in a truck accident lawsuit against a corporate defendant. It involves gathering comprehensive information from the accident scene and beyond to establish liability and prove the extent of damages incurred.
Photographs are crucial in documenting the accident scene, capturing details such as vehicle positions, road conditions, traffic signals, and visible damage. These visual records provide tangible evidence to help reconstruct the events leading up to the accident and determine fault.
Witness statements provide additional perspectives on the accident, including accounts of what happened, driver behavior observations, and other relevant details. Witness testimony can corroborate your events and strengthen your case against the corporate defendant.
Police reports contain official documentation of the accident. They include details such as the incident’s date, time, location, citations, and statements from involved parties. Obtaining a copy of the police report is essential for understanding law enforcement officials’ initial assessment of the accident.
Surveillance footage from nearby cameras or dashcams can offer valuable insight into the moments leading up to the accident. They can help capture details that may not be apparent from witness statements or photographs alone. This footage can provide objective evidence of vehicle speed, traffic patterns, and driver behavior.
Even police body cameras can help document the scene. According to Northern Virginia Injury Law News, video footage from police body-worn cameras has become helpful in personal injury cases. Some states have even made it mandatory for police to wear these cameras. For instance, the City of Alexandria Police had recently made these cameras a part of their required gear.
In conclusion, being involved in a car accident with a corporate truck can be a stressful and challenging experience. However, by following the tips outlined in this article and seeking appropriate assistance, you can effectively navigate the aftermath of the crash. Thus, you can ensure that your rights are protected.
Remember to prioritize your safety, document the accident scene, communicate effectively with all parties involved, and seek professional legal guidance when needed. By taking proactive measures, you can achieve a fair resolution and confidently move forward after a collision with a corporate truck.