Odessa Semi-Truck Lawyers are Available to Help You with Your Legal Claim
Across the United States, intersections and roadways allow semi-trucks to travel and deliver materials to countless companies. However, due to their massive size and potentially hazardous loads, large trucks increase the dangers other drivers face when behind the wheel of a motor vehicle. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) stated, “A total of 3,986 people died in large truck crashes in 2016.”
Although our roads have posted restrictions that truck drivers must obey, these laws are not always followed. When restrictions are neglected, and commercial vehicles drive on restricted roads, it places motorists in danger.
If you or a loved one sustained property damage or life-altering injuries caused by a tractor- trailer, our Odessa semi-truck lawyers at Braker White can assist you with your case.
Why are Certain Roads Restricted for Truckers?
As a society, we rely on trucks to carry heavy loads to keep our economy operating effectively. However, trucks present greater dangers than people realize. An article by Governing reported, “Engineers estimate that a fully loaded truck — a five-axle rig weighing 80,000 pounds, the interstate maximum — causes more damage to a highway than 5,000 cars.”
Trucks must abide by strict regulations that include a certain height, width, weight, and length. These regulations are intended to help keep roads safe for all motorists. Specific roads are restricted to truckers for various reasons such as the type of cargo. For example, trucks that are carrying radioactive and flammable materials are restricted on some roads. Also, gross weight and overall truck length can add restrictions for truckers.
Reporting a Truck Driving on Restricted Roads
It’s imperative to ensure the safety of yourself and other motorists. In order to help keep roadways safe and reduce trucking accidents, it’s essential to report a trucker who has violated the law by driving on a restricted road.
Although trucks have certain road restrictions including weight limits and routes they must follow, some truckers ignore these restrictions so they can avoid traffic and reach their destinations in a shorter amount of time.
If you live in a residential neighborhood where commercial vehicles are not permitted on the streets, you can contact the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) at (888-368-7238). When you contact the FMCSA, make sure to provide the trucking company name and license plate number.
If you see a truck driver failing to obey posted restriction signs, don’t hesitate to report the violation immediately.
How to Proceed When Involved in a Trucking Accident
Unlike traditional auto accidents, truck accidents are often more complex because trucking companies typically have large insurance policies in case of an accident.
If you’re involved in a collision with a commercial vehicle, the first step you should take is to stay at the scene and call emergency responders. Semi-truck accidents usually result in serious injuries due to their size and weight. While you wait for help to arrive, don’t admit fault. The police will evaluate the scene and write a police report stating who is at fault for the accident.
The scene of the crash can provide vital evidence, so it’s in your best interest to take photographs of the vehicles and any injuries you sustained. Also, if there are any witnesses, make sure to ask for their statement and contact information.
In tractor-trailer accidents, speaking with an attorney can help you increase your chances of receiving compensation. Our team of Odessa semi-truck lawyers has handled large trucking corporations in the past. We know the tactical schemes insurance companies use in hopes to pay out as little compensation as possible.
Contact Our Experienced Attorneys
Our team is committed to ensuring you receive justice by fighting for the compensation you rightfully deserve. If you or a loved one were injured in a truck accident or experienced the wrongful death of a family member, our attorneys can help. The legal battle with a trucker’s insurance company can be stressful and overwhelming. Our Odessa semi-truck lawyers want to help reduce your stress so you can focus on recovery.
We believe people injured in truck accidents that weren’t their fault deserve to receive compensation for their suffering. Compensation can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you hesitate to call, you may potentially miss your opportunity to receive compensation for what you endured. However, every case is different, and results will vary depending upon the severity of your injuries and property damage.
In order to determine whether or not you are eligible for compensation, contact us today at (432) 580-5421 or fill out our free consultation form.
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