Navigating The Complexities Of Maryland Truck Accidents
Most people know truck crashes are often more devastating than accidents involving smaller vehicles. Semi-trucks can weigh upwards of 80,000 pounds; the relative size and weight of commercial trucks make them inherently more dangerous than other passenger vehicles. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports that most deaths in large truck crashes are from passenger vehicle occupants.
How much more dangerous are trucks than cars in multi-vehicle accidents? According to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), car accidents result in approximately nine deaths per 100 million vehicle miles traveled (VMT). By contrast, truck accidents result in 28 deaths per 100 million, more than three times that of car accidents.
While the dangers of tractor-trailers are largely self-evident, it is less obvious how much more legally complex truck accident cases can be. Trucking companies must follow strict rules set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA); in addition to larger medical bills and property damage, trucking personal injury cases often involve multiple lines of insurance, interstate regulations, and safety standards specific to the type of truck.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, you probably have a myriad of questions about what steps to take and how to protect your rights. At the Poole Law Group, we aim to provide clear guidance on what to do after a truck accident and the role of a truck accident lawyer in helping you navigate this challenging situation.
To speak to a Maryland truck accident lawyer, call the Poole Law Group at 301-790-3600.
The Reality of Accidents on I-70 and I-81
Interstates 70 and 81 are major transportation corridors in Maryland, serving as critical links for both local and interstate traffic. These highways, while essential for commerce and daily commutes, are also hotspots for accidents. Understanding the unique challenges of these roadways and knowing your legal rights and options after an accident can make a significant difference in the aftermath of a crash.
I-70 runs east-west through Maryland, connecting major cities and serving as a key route for travelers and commercial vehicles. I-81 runs north-south, and is heavily utilized by freight traffic due to its connection to key distribution centers. Both interstates experience high traffic volumes, which contribute to a range of accident scenarios, including high speed collisions, commercial truck accidents, weather-related incidents and construction accidents.
If you have been involved in an accident on I-70 or I-81, call the Maryland truck accident lawyers at Poole Law Group at 301-790-3600. Our team understands the importance of effective legal counsel after a Maryland truck accident, and we stand ready to help you recover compensation for your injuries.
“What Do I Do After a Truck Accident?”
Being involved in a truck accident can be a traumatic and confusing experience. In our decades of fighting for injured people, we understand how important it is to have a game plan for what to do after an accident before you need it. Here are the critical steps you should take to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights:
- Ensure your safety and call 911 if necessary. The first and most critical step to take immediately after a truck accident is to check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is injured or unresponsive, call 911 and seek medical treatment immediately. If possible, move yourself to a safe location away from the accident scene, particularly on a busy road.
- Gather and exchange information. Your next step is to collect the names, contact information, insurance details, and vehicle information of all parties involved. Be sure to take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. If you have to move your vehicle before the police arrive, take photos before doing so to help accident reconstructionists understand what caused the accident.
- Call the police to report the accident. A police report is crucial, both for legal and insurance purposes. When speaking to the reporting police officer, provide an accurate account of the incident, but avoid admitting fault or speculating about the cause.
- Visit a doctor for a medical evaluation. Even if you feel fine, it is important to get a full medical examination as soon as possible after an accident. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent; a medical professional will be able to identify any injuries related to the accident.
- Notify your insurance company. Provide them with the necessary information and cooperate with their investigation, including the evidence you have gathered, the police report, and any medical bills you have received from injuries related to the accident.
- Consult the truck accident lawyers at Poole Law Group. Even if your case seems straightforward, or your injuries don’t seem severe, it’s important to get legal advice so you fully understand your options. Truck accidents involve complex regulations and multiple parties; a lawyer specializing in truck accident cases can help protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Read More: Truck Accidents in Maryland: Proving the Cause Was Distracted Driving
Truck accident claims can be complicated, but you don't have to navigate them alone. By following the appropriate steps after an accident, you protect your rights and work towards securing the compensation you deserve.
