With the increase in the number of goods being shipped from other areas, the number of trucks and tractor trailers have increased on roads in Ventura County and throughout the U.S. Unfortunately, this also means an increase in the potential for truck accidents and injuries, which can be severe and even life threatening. At the Quirk Law Firm LLP, we provide truck accident help to victims seeking compensation through insurance company claims, as well through personal injury lawsuits. If you are injured while driving a truck, follow these tips from our truck accident attorney on what you need to do both at the scene and in the aftermath of your accident to protect your rights and interests.
Information To Get In the Aftermath of a Truck Accident
According to Ryder Systems, Incorporated, a leader in the trucking industry, roughly 500,000 trucking accidents occur each year throughout the United States. Commercial trucking companies are required to provide their employees with the proper training on both driving and maintaining their vehicle, which includes performing system checks concerning things such as tire pressure, fluid levels, brake function, and load distribution. While serious accidents can occur as the result of improper maintenance or road conditions, Ryder indicates the main contributing factor in most trucking accidents is driver error.
In the event you are injured while driving a truck, you will need to report it to both your employer, as well as your own insurance company. Unfortunately, even in situations in which you were clearly not to blame, you may find your claim being disputed by both parties, in an attempt to save themselves the money they would be required to pay for costs such as medical expenses and lost wages. In these types of situations, it is important to protect yourself by ensuring you obtain the following information:
- Contact information for all drivers involved, including their license, registration, and insurance numbers;
- Police reports from the scene of the accident, as well as any witness statements;
- Photos at the scene of the accident, which you can take with your cell phone camera;
- Receipts for any medical care you received, as well as medical records showing your prognosis for recovery;
- Details on any lost wages you have suffered, as well as statements from family members in terms of how your injuries have affected your home life.
Getting Treatment For Your Injuries
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), as many as 100,000 drivers are injured each year as the result of truck accidents. Injuries may include the following:
- Head injuries, such as concussion and traumatic brain injury;
- Back and spinal cord injuries;
- Crushing injuries and damage to internal organs;
- Broken bones and muscle and tendon strains;
- Severe cuts and lacerations;
- Burn injuries due to contact with hot surfaces or exposure to burning oil and gas.
It is vitally important to get medical help immediately after a truck accident, even if you think your injuries are minor. Many serious conditions can have symptoms that are delayed, while failing to have a doctor document your injuries could prevent you from getting compensation.
Reach Out to Our Attorneys for Help
If you or someone you care about is injured while driving a truck, contact our Ventura accident lawyer right away. At the Quirk Law Firm, LLP, we provide the aggressive legal representation you need to get the compensation you deserve for the injuries you suffered. As a full service personal injury law firm, we can represent you against the trucking company and insurance representatives, ensuring your rights are protected. Let us help you today.
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Ventura, California 93003
Phone: 805-650-7778