You’re heading down the highway at 80 mph. The roads are slicker than usual due to rain over the last few days. Then the 18 wheeler in the lane next to you blows a tire and slides into your lane and across the highway unable to stop.
Colliding with an 18 wheeler is the most terrifying of highway trip-ups. Large truck crashes caused over 4,000 deaths in 2017. If you’re lucky enough to make it out of your vehicle alive, what comes next?
Here we will give you the top 5 things you need to know about 18 wheeler crashes.
5 Things You Need to Know about 18 Wheeler Crashes
The fact is that 18 wheeler wrecks are more common than you think. Here’s what you need to know.
Truck Drivers Are Held to a Higher Standard
When your vehicle and an 18 wheeler crash, it isn’t the same thing as 2 common drivers crashing. Truck drivers hold special licenses and receive ongoing training throughout their career.
This training provides large truck drivers with additional skills to avoid these accidents. Also, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) imposed strict limits on the number of hours a truck driver can stay continuously on the road to avoid a higher risk of accidents.
The weight of the truck’s load is also monitored and kept under a certain threshold to maintain the stability of the 18 wheeler and a lower rollover risk.
A careful investigation will take place after an 18 wheeler accident to see if they broke the rules.
Big Rigs Equal Big Business: Multiple Parties Could Be at Fault for Your 18 Wheeler Crash
Many 18 wheeler accidents are complicated. Two drivers colliding is just the beginning. The reason is that the truck driver is a representative of a large corporation.
Trucking companies carry a heavy burden to make sure they’re hiring the best employees, providing education/training, and enforcing the regulations of the industry.
If the trucking company fell short on their end of the bargain, they’re liable for any injuries and damages caused if 1 of their 18 wheelers crashes.
Always Go to the Hospital
If you are involved in an 18 wheeler accident today and you are lucky enough to get out of your car, it can be easy to think you’re just fine. Even if you feel fine, you need to go to the hospital.
Adrenaline is a tricky mistress, and you may be in a massive amount of pain once it has worn down.
Don’t Let Loose Lips Leave You in the Lurch
Outside of police officers at the scene of the accident, don’t speak with anyone regarding the crash until talking to an attorney.
When dealing with big business, their insurance companies will try to have you settle quickly.
Make sure you know your options by speaking to a lawyer before making any decisions.
Procrastination Costs You in the End
The first hours after an 18 wheeler accident are critical to your chances of getting reimbursement for your injuries. Go to the hospital and call an attorney right away to learn what you need to do to protect yourself.
An Accident in Texas Doesn’t Have to Total You
Yes, 18 wheeler crashes are stressful, so be prepared. Know your rights, get medical treatment, and get representation.
Do you have more questions? Call us today, and we will be happy to go over everything.