There are a large variety of factors that can lead to a fatal truck crash. Just a few of the reasons why these accidents occur include: driver impairment, fatigue, inattention, carelessness, and negligence. And, while it still remains illegal to drive while impaired or intoxicated, it still happens. In fact, alcohol is a leading factor for a majority of roadway truck accidents.
Alongside intoxication, inattention is another issue that can lead to a fatal truck crash and serious injuries. Unlike intoxication, however, inattention can happen for a number of reasons.
Distracted driving is one of the most common forms of inattentive driving. And the leading cause of distracted driving is cell phone use. What is distracted driving? Distracted driving encompasses any activity that takes your eyes off of the road, you hands off the wheel, or your attention away from driving. Cell phone use, specifically texting, is especially dangerous because it leads to all 3 aspects of distracted driving.
What to do after a serious truck accident?
If you were hurt in a trucking accident, you should remember to follow the following basic steps.
- Once you’re in a safe place, call the police to report the accident. Wait for the police to arrive to investigate the accident scene and gather information from drivers and witnesses.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible after the crash. Even if you don’t feel hurt, it’s best to get evaluated by a doctor. Some injuries may go unnoticed at first, especially head trauma.
- Get help from an experienced truck accident attorney immediately after the accident. Don’t speak with an insurance representative or adjust until you’ve had time to first talk to a lawyer of your own. Often, insurance companies try to rush through settlements which, while likely to get you money ASAP, will also likely not provide enough compensation to cover your injuries and damages. Your truck accident attorney will be able to negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company or trucking company based on the extent of your injuries and will remain on your side if you need to go to court if a settlement can’t be reached between you and the insurance company.
If you or a loved one was hurt in a serious truck accident, give The Clardy Law Firm a call today.
