April 25, 2024
What to Do If You Are Hit by a Commercial Truck in Denver
Table of Contents
- Factoid About Truck Accidents in the US
- Commercial Truck Accidents in Denver
- What is a Commercial Truck?
- Immediate Actions at the Accident Scene
- Post-Accident Procedures
- Legal Considerations
- Contact Callender Bowlin Today
When a commercial truck collides with a smaller vehicle in Denver, the aftermath can be severe and overwhelming.
Understanding the necessary steps to take immediately following such an accident is crucial for your safety, health, and any subsequent legal claims.
This guide provides detailed advice on handling the situation with clarity and ensures you’re prepared in case you find yourself in this unfortunate scenario.
Factoid About Truck Accidents in the US
Statistic | Value | Description |
---|---|---|
Fatal Crashes | 5,837 | Large trucks involved in fatal crashes, increased by 1.8% from 2021. |
Injury Crashes | 120,200 | Large trucks involved in crashes resulting in injury, up 2.5% from 2021. |
Injury Trends | 18% increase since 2016 | Number of trucks involved in injury crashes has risen since 2016. |
Death Toll | 5,936 | Number of people who died in large-truck crashes, increased by 2% from 2021. |
Injuries | 161,000 | Number of injuries in large-truck crashes, increased by 3.9% from 2021. |
Primary Victims | 70% deaths, 73% injuries | Majority of deaths and injuries were occupants of other vehicles. |
Location & Time | Rural roads, Daylight | Most fatal crashes occurred on rural roads during daylight hours. |
Commercial Truck Accidents in Denver
Commercial truck accidents in Denver can happen swiftly and have devastating outcomes due to the size and weight of the trucks involved. These vehicles, often weighing over 10,000 pounds, can cause significant damage even at low speeds.
Such accidents typically result in more severe injuries and greater vehicle damage compared to collisions involving smaller vehicles.
Common Consequences of These Accidents
The consequences of being hit by a commercial truck are not just physical but also financial and emotional.
Victims may face serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or even fatalities.
On the financial side, the costs of medical care, vehicle repair, and potential loss of income can be overwhelming.
Emotionally, the trauma from such an accident can lead to long-term psychological issues, including PTSD.
Importance of Knowing the Right Steps to Take Post-Accident
Knowing what to do after being hit by a commercial truck can significantly influence the recovery process and the effectiveness of pursuing legal claims.
Immediate actions—such as documenting the scene, seeking medical attention, and consulting legal professionals—play critical roles in ensuring safety and securing just compensation.
What is a Commercial Truck?
In the context of Denver traffic and nationwide, understanding what constitutes a commercial truck is crucial for legal and safety reasons. These vehicles are governed by specific regulations that impact how accident claims are handled and determined.
Here, we explore the definition and types of commercial trucks and the implications of these definitions in accident scenarios.
Definition and Examples of Commercial Trucks
A commercial truck is a vehicle used for transporting goods or passengers, which falls under specific regulatory criteria based on size, weight, and purpose. Examples include delivery trucks, eighteen-wheelers, and buses.
According to federal safety regulations, a commercial vehicle includes those with a gross vehicle weight rating of over 10,001 pounds, vehicles designed to transport more than 8 passengers (including the driver) for compensation, or more than 15 passengers not for compensation.
Federal and State Regulations Defining Commercial Vehicles
Both federal and state laws play significant roles in defining and regulating commercial vehicles. These regulations ensure safety standards are met and govern the operations of such vehicles on public roads.
For instance, commercial drivers are required to have specialized licenses and must adhere to strict driving hour regulations—factors that can influence liability in the event of an accident.
Distinction Between Commercial Trucks and Other Vehicles
Understanding the distinctions between commercial trucks and other vehicles is vital, especially in the event of an accident.
Commercial trucks are subject to more stringent regulations due to their potential for causing significant damage.
This distinction affects how accidents involving these vehicles are investigated, how liabilities are determined, and the types of compensations victims might expect.
Immediate Actions at the Accident Scene
When involved in an accident with a commercial truck in Denver, the actions you take immediately afterward are critical. These steps not only ensure your safety but also play a significant role in the legal processes that may follow.
From securing the scene to gathering essential information, each action you take contributes to your case’s integrity and your physical well-being.
How to Secure the Accident Scene
The first priority in any accident, especially with a commercial truck, is to ensure your safety and that of others around you. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic.
Turn on hazard lights and set up emergency cones or flares if available. This action prevents further accidents and alerts other road users to your presence.
Ensuring Immediate Health Needs are Met
Even if injuries seem minor, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately after an accident. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, may not present immediate symptoms.
Documenting your visit to a healthcare provider can also be vital evidence if you pursue a claim for your injuries.
What Details to Gather at the Scene
When you’re involved in an accident with a commercial truck, collecting the right details at the scene is critical. This information not only aids in the immediate aftermath to ensure all parties are safe and accounted for but also plays a pivotal role in any legal or insurance processes that follow. Here’s a guide to what essential details you should gather if you find yourself in this situation:
- Driver Information
- Truck Details
- Insurance Information
- Witness Details
- Accident Details
- Photographic Evidence
How to Effectively Document the Accident
Taking photos is crucial—snap pictures of your vehicle, the truck, any visible injuries, and overall scene context. These photos can provide critical evidence for your insurance claim and potential legal proceedings. They capture details that might otherwise be overlooked or forgotten.
Communicating at the Scene: What to Say and What Not to Say
When speaking with others at the scene, be cautious. Limit your communication to exchanging necessary information and do not admit fault or speculate about the accident causes.
Anything you say can be used in legal or insurance proceedings, so it’s wise to speak thoughtfully and sparingly.
Post-Accident Procedures
After ensuring immediate safety and health needs are addressed following a collision with a commercial truck, there are crucial steps to take that focus on the longer-term aspects of recovery and legal matters.
This section outlines the essential actions from consulting a lawyer to handling insurance claims, which can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
Importance of Follow-Up Treatments
Continuing medical care after the initial treatment is vital.
Follow-up visits can detect late-appearing injuries and help document the ongoing impacts of the accident—crucial when seeking compensation.
Keep a detailed record of all medical appointments, treatments received, and how the injuries affect your daily life.
When and Why to Contact a Lawyer
Consulting with a lawyer early can significantly affect the outcome of your legal claims.
A lawyer specializing in commercial truck accidents will understand the complex laws and regulations that apply to these cases.
They can offer advice on how to proceed with claims and can manage negotiations with insurance companies, ensuring your rights are upheld.
Keeping Records of All Related Documents and Receipts
Maintain a comprehensive file of all accident-related documents. This includes police reports, medical records, receipts for expenses incurred due to the accident, and any correspondence with insurance companies.
These documents are essential for insurance claims and any legal actions.
How to Handle Claims and Discussions
Handling insurance claims can be daunting.
Be cautious when speaking with insurance adjusters—remember, their goal is to minimize the company’s payout. Do not agree to any settlements or sign any documents without consulting your lawyer.
Proper legal guidance ensures that the compensation offered reflects the true extent of your damages and losses.
Legal Considerations
Following a commercial truck accident, there are several legal considerations to keep in mind that can affect the outcome of your case.
Understanding these aspects is crucial for ensuring your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
This section delves into the legal framework surrounding truck accidents, including negligence and the steps to take when pursuing a claim.
Understanding Negligence in Truck Accidents
In legal terms, negligence is the failure to take reasonable care to avoid causing injury or loss to another person.
In the context of truck accidents, proving negligence means demonstrating that the truck driver, trucking company, or another party failed to act with due care, leading to the accident.
Examples include violations of driving regulations, failure to maintain the truck, or improper loading.
Key Legal Steps Following a Commercial Truck Accident
After ensuring your immediate safety and receiving medical care, it’s essential to take specific legal steps:
- Report the accident to the police immediately if they did not attend the scene.
- Gather evidence, including witness statements and any available video footage.
- Notify your insurance company of the accident, but refrain from detailed discussions or agreements.
The Role of a Lawyer in Your Truck Accident Case
A lawyer specializing in truck accidents can guide you through the complex legal landscape.
They will help you gather necessary evidence, represent you in discussions with insurance companies, and, if necessary, pursue litigation.
Having a knowledgeable lawyer can significantly influence the strength of your case and the compensation you might receive.
Preparing for Settlement Negotiations or a Lawsuit
If the case does not settle early, your lawyer will prepare for negotiations or a lawsuit.
This involves assembling a detailed case based on the collected evidence, formulating a strategy based on the specifics of your situation, and advocating on your behalf.
Successful negotiations or litigation depend on presenting a well-prepared case that clearly shows the extent of your losses and the other party’s liability.
Contact Callender Bowlin Today
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, don’t hesitate to contact Callender Bowlin for guidance. As your truck accident attorney, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible outcome.
Reach out to us at (719) 350-4872 to discuss your case and discover how we can support you through this challenging time.
Our team is ready to provide you with the support and advocacy you need to secure the compensation you deserve.