Tractor-Trailer Accidents
Tractor-trailer accidents are among the most dangerous and devastating types of motor vehicle accidents that occur on our roads. These massive vehicles, which can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and are capable of causing significant injury or death. They can also cause extensive damage to other vehicles and property.
The cause of tractor-trailer accidents is often complex, and it can involve a combination of factors such as driver error, mechanical failure, poor road conditions, and weather. Some of the most common causes of tractor-trailer accidents include:
Driver fatigue: Long hours on the road, combined with the monotony of driving, can result in driver fatigue, which can impair a driver's reaction time and decision-making abilities.
Improper training: Tractor-trailer drivers must undergo specialized training to safely operate their vehicles, but not all drivers receive adequate training.
Overloading: Tractor-trailers that are overloaded with cargo can be more difficult to maneuver, which can increase the risk of accidents.
Poor vehicle maintenance: Tractor-trailers that are not properly maintained can suffer from mechanical failures that can lead to accidents.
Distracted driving: Tractor-trailer drivers who are texting, eating, or engaging in other distracting activities are more likely to cause accidents.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a tractor-trailer accident, first seek emergency help.
It is also important to seek legal representation as soon as possible. A knowledgeable and experienced personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the complex process of seeking compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
In addition to helping you recover compensation, a personal injury lawyer can also help you hold the responsible parties accountable. This can help prevent similar accidents from happening in the future, and it can help ensure that those who cause these accidents are held responsible for their actions.
At The Batts Law Group, we have a deep understanding of the laws and regulations surrounding tractor-trailer accidents, and we have a proven track record of helping clients recover the compensation they deserve. Our team of experienced legal professionals will work tirelessly to protect your rights and to help you recover the maximum compensation available under the law.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a tractor-trailer accident, contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your legal rights and options.
If you have been involved in a tractor-trailer accident, it's important to take the following steps to protect your rights and gather evidence for a potential claim:
Seek medical attention: Your health and well-being should be your top priority. Even if you don't feel like you have been seriously injured, it's important to get checked out by a doctor as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Report the accident: Call the police to report the accident and file a formal report. This will create an official record of the accident that can be used as evidence in a later claim.
Gather information: Collect information from the truck driver and any witnesses at the scene of the accident. Write down their names, phone numbers, and addresses so you can contact them later if needed.
Take photos: If possible, take photos of the scene of the accident, including the damage to your vehicle and the tractor-trailer, as well as any skid marks, road signs, and other relevant details.
Contact your insurance company: Notify your insurance company about the accident and provide them with any information you have gathered. However, be careful about what you say to the insurance adjuster, as your statements may be used against you in a later claim. You should refrain from talking to the at-fault insurance company without having an attorney present with you. If you do not have an attorney, please call us.
Keep records: Keep a record of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, repair costs, and any other expenses. This documentation can be used to support your claim.
By taking these steps, you can help protect your rights and increase your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve after a tractor-trailer accident.