A truck accident often results in catastrophic or fatal injuries for passenger vehicle occupants. In addition to the serious injuries that may result, many people are unsure of all the steps they need to take to protect their rights in the wake of such an accident.

Below, our Indianapolis attorneys discuss the dangers of truck accidents and what you can do to increase your chances of recovering maximum possible compensation after being involved in one.

What Makes Truck Accidents So Dangerous?

Tractor-trailers can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded. When traveling at high speeds on the freeway, these trucks can destroy anything in their path in the event of an accident, including passenger vehicles.

In addition to their size and weight, trucks are notorious for their poor maneuverability and required braking distance. This can make them difficult to control in sudden traffic changes in order to avoid a crash.

Sadly, this often results in the following catastrophic injuries for passenger vehicle occupants:

  • Traumatic brain injuries

  • Spinal cord injuries

  • Injuries requiring amputation

  • Severe burn injuries

Protecting Your Rights After a Truck Accident

In addition to the hazards that truck accidents present, there is also the complex issue of liability in these incidents.

Most trucks are commercial vehicles, which means that a trucking company is responsible for the trucks’ maintenance and operation. As such, it is not only the truck driver who may be held liable for damages in an accident.

The following parties may also be held responsible for a truck accident:

  • The trucking company

  • The truck’s cargo loaders

  • The truck’s manufacturer

  • The truck’s maintenance provider

As such, it’s important for you to take the following steps after a truck accident in order to protect your rights:

  • Seek medical treatment and retain all medical records.

  • Collect contact, vehicle, insurance, and company information from the truck driver.

  • Gather contact information from any witnesses at the scene.

  • Obtain a copy of the responding officer’s police report.

  • See if there are any nearby traffic or security cameras whose footage can be used as supporting evidence.

Injured in a Truck Accident? We’re Here to Help

If you or someone you love has been injured in a truck accident, our team is prepared to protect your rights. We know such an incident can leave you in physical, emotional, and financial turmoil, and we’re here to help you through it.

Contact Wagner Reese today at (888) 204-8440 to schedule a free consultation with our team.