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According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), there were 105,808 people killed or injured in crashes involving large trucks in 2007 alone. The average cost for large truck accidents between 2001-2003 was $91,112 (FMCSA). The majority of regular drivers involved in these types of truck accidents are unaware of the steps that they should take in order to secure both their personal and financial safety. The trucks involved are usually part of a company, whose financial interests are highly vested in their shipping, and thus they bring their full resources to bear on a truck accident. Therefore it’s essential that you know how to protect your interests and if you get in a truck accident what to do. Accident Dos Most importantly, your initial concern should be for your safety and the safety of others. Once you are out of danger: • Contact law enforcement officials immediately. • Next, you should contact an attorney who will defend your rights and fight for your interests. At this point, once your personal safety has been insured and the proper calls made, it’s time to begin focusing on the accident itself and collecting information. This is extreme important because the statute of limitations on a truck accident is different than that of a regular motor vehicle accident, as are other federal regulations. • Take pictures – possible items to photograph are: o License plate numbers of vehicles involved o License plate numbers of trailers involved (often different from truck number) o Wrecked vehicles themselves o Skid marks to and from accident site o The truck’s tires (blown tires are often the causes of truck accidents) Other Information If no camera is available, it’s still vital that you obtain all applicable license plate numbers, and also: • A copy of the police report and pertinent police names and numbers • A copy of the medical examination report • Contact information of any and all drivers involved, including license numbers • Insurance information of any and all drivers involved • Contact information of any and all witnesses • Identifying names or labels on all trailers involved Accident Don’ts Because of the increased financial implications of these accidents: • Do not to sign anything other than the police report • Only sign the police report after having carefully read through the entire document • Do not give any statements without first consulting with an attorney Defending Your Rights If you live in the Washington D.C., Maryland, or Virginia area and have questions about truck accidents, please visit the website of the accident attorneys of Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata, & Seigel P.C. today.
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