Ohio Semi-Truck Accident Attorney
Accidents involving semi trucks, aka tractor-trailers or 18-wheelers, are different from regular car crashes in a few ways. Due to the heightened dangers associated with driving such a large load over great distances trucking laws include both state and federal statutes. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is one of the agencies that establishes the rules and regulations that govern trucking.
The companies that use these trucks have an increased duty to ensure that the vehicle, trailer and even the driver are all fit for the job. When a crash happens, it is usually due to the failure of one, or multiple parties.
Since so many companies and people are involved, lawsuits regularly involve several defending parties. The driver, tractor maintenance company, trailer owner and related parties may all share in some of the responsibility for the crash.
LEARN MORE ABOUT TRUCKING ACCIDENTS
Semi-Truck Accident Cases
In building a trucking accident case the correct evidence needs to be demanded as soon as possible to ensure it is there to prove your case. At Legacy Law Firm, LLC, we obtain driver’s logs, maintenance records for the tractor and the trailer, vehicle inspections, license and driving information, data from onboard recording devices and control modules, and much more.
Injuries and property damage from trucking crashes are typically more severe due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved. As such, it is that much more important to take action as soon as you can. Waiting too long may mean the evidence is no longer available to prove your case or may even prevent you from filing a lawsuit.
Call The Police
Getting law enforcement involved can help to ensure the details of the crash are documented, and any violations of law are noted. Officers will write a detailed report about the crash and may take photos and draw a diagram of their observations.
Get Witness Information
If possible, get names and contact information for any witnesses you can. This can be a big help if your case needs to go to trial.
Don’t Do It Alone
Most people are in relatively few car crashes in their lifetime. Many don’t know what to do, and how to make sure they are protected. Actions taken now can drastically impact the recovery in your case. Getting qualified professionals and lawyers on your side early can make all the difference. We’ve been there, and we can guide you through the process.
Seek Medical Care
Even if you feel fine a visit to a physician is usually a good idea. The shock from being in a car crash and the adrenaline you feel can mask underlying injuries. Additionally, an injury may not even be apparent until several days after the crash. Seeing a doctor can ensure you get proper treatment, and will also serve to document your injuries.
Take Photos
Getting evidence to document the damage to the vehicle, and your personal injuries is critically important for any type of care accident. A picture speaks a thousand words as they say.
Keep A Journal
Write down how you’re doing, how you’re feeling and the impacts the injuries are having on your daily life. Include details about interactions with spouse, children, friends and family including changes in the relationship and activities you cannot do, or are limited in. This can help build your case for pain and suffering as well as claims such as a loss of consortium, aka loss of companionship.