Like any other auto accident, 18-wheeler accidents are commonly caused by driving while intoxicated, driving while fatigued, distracted driving, reckless driving, and overall, negligent driving. But the injuries and damages after an 18-wheeler accident are far more detrimental than any other accident due to their sheer size and weight. So if you find yourself a victim of one, read on to discover how a seasoned Tampa truck accident lawyer at Merricks Law Group, P.A., can help you in filing a personal injury claim.
What are the different types of 18-wheeler accidents in the state of Florida?
There are different ways in which an 18-wheeler accident may occur. Their commonality is that they all have the potential of being fatal. They are as follows:
- Rollover accident: this type of accident is when a truck driver makes a turn too sharply, has an unevenly-loaded tailor, drives through severe weather conditions, or drives through severe road conditions.
- Jackknife accident: this type of accident is when a truck driver brakes too fast and its trailer swings and swipes a neighboring automobile.
- Underride accident: this type of accident is when a neighboring motorist rear-ends an 18-wheeler and gets stuck underneath its trailer.
- Head-on collision: this type of accident is when a truck driver is driving in the wrong direction or on the wrong side of the road and hits a neighboring motor vehicle.
- Rear-end accident: this type of accident is when a truck driver negligently crashes into the back of a neighboring vehicle.
What evidence do I need for my 18-wheeler accident claim?
There is no doubt that if you were involved in an 18-wheeler accident due to no fault of your own, then you deserve financial compensation to recover your injuries and damages. That is, a personal injury claim is necessary. And with a claim, sufficient evidence is necessary. Nevertheless, you must follow the below steps immediately after your accident:
- Call the police: once on the scene, the police will call for an ambulance and conduct a police report. Make sure to get a copy of this police report.
- Record the scene: take photos and videos of your injuries, your automobile damages, and any contributory hazards that had a hand in your accident. Make sure that you get photos and videos from present witnesses.
- Gather contact information: ask that the truck driver share their name, phone number, commercial driver’s license number, employer’s name, etc. Make sure that you collect the contact information of the present witnesses.
- Go to medical treatment: go to the ambulance on the scene, go to the hospital afterward, and schedule follow-up appointments with your physician. Make sure that you get copies of your medical documents and medical bills.
- Employ a competent Tampa auto accident lawyer: make sure that you ask for our help with obtaining surveillance camera footage of your accident. Nevertheless, call us as soon as you can.
