Data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration shows that in 2021, there were 5,904 large trucks and buses involved in fatal crashes, an 18% increase from 2020. Additionally, the rate of fatal truck and bus crashes per 100 million miles driven rose to 0.191 in 2021, up from 0.176 the prior year. While still 7% lower than the peak 21st century rate of 0.205 in 2002, these statistics undermine the perception of semi-trucks as safe, professional vehicles.
Due to their towering size and heavy cargo loads, collisions with commercial semi-trucks often result in catastrophic damage and traumatic injuries. Truck accident victims may endure crushed bones, back and neck injuries, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, severe lacerations, and amputations. With greater force involved, the likelihood of fatalities also increases.
If you find yourself in an accident with a semi-truck, try to remain calm and take the following recommended steps.
Assess Your Condition
Take stock of any injuries you or your passengers may have sustained. If anyone requires immediate medical attention, call 911 right away. Even if you believe you’re unharmed, get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible, as some traumatic injuries like concussions or internal bleeding may not be obvious at first.
Gather Information
If you’re able, collect important information about the accident scene. Get the truck driver’s name, license plate number, company name, insurance information, and contact info for any witnesses. Take photos of property damage, skid marks, injuries, and the positions of the vehicles. This evidence will help investigators reconstruct the crash and determine fault later on.
File a Police Report
Alert the authorities so they can send personnel to document the accident. Provide an objective account of what happened and be cooperative. Ask for a copy of the police report for your records. Having an official report is crucial when filing insurance claims.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if your injuries seem minor initially, get examined by a doctor to identify any issues that may need treatment. Tell your physician you were in an 18-wheeler accident, as the high-impact forces involved can cause hidden internal damage and delayed-onset symptoms. Your health and recovery are most important.
Contact Your Insurance Provider
Notify your auto insurance company about the commercial truck accident as soon as you can. Cooperate with their investigation and provide all relevant details. Ask what compensation you’re entitled to for medical bills, lost wages, vehicle repair or replacement, and other costs under your policy.
Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer
Due to their complexity, legal experts recommend having an attorney represent you following a semi-truck crash. An experienced lawyer understands federal trucking regulations and how to build a strong negligence case against a trucking company. Truck accident lawyers can handle negotiations with insurers and pursue maximum compensation through a lawsuit if warranted.
Be Prepared, Drive Defensively
While you can’t control other motorists, driving cautiously around 18-wheelers can help avoid potential disasters. Give semi-trucks plenty of braking room, avoid their large blind spots, and never cut them off. Be prepared for wide turns and pass with extreme care. Simply being aware of these enormous vehicles on the road can go a long way toward preventing a crash.
If you do find yourself and your vehicle pitted against an 80,000-pound semi-truck, stay composed and take the necessary steps to protect your health and your rights.
