A commercial truck accident can be devastating, leaving victims with serious injuries and uncertainty about what to do next. Unlike standard car accidents, wrecks with large trucks—like semi-trucks, box trucks, and delivery vans—often involve multiple parties, trucking companies, and insurance providers. Because of these complexities, a commercial truck accident attorney in Kansas City is often necessary to help victims navigate the complex legal issues that arise because of accidents of this nature.
This guide aims to outline the most important steps to take after being involved in a commercial trucking accident, and the importance of seeking out a legal professional to help with comprehensive accident investigation and litigation in the wake of these wrecks.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Semi-Truck Collision?
Determining liable parties after a commercial truck collision can be a challenging task. A commercial truck accident attorney will perform a thorough investigation into the crash, working to determine how the crash occurred, and—from this investigation—identify the parties that may be liable for injuries and damages.
This information is required before pursuing litigation or filing a lawsuit. Potentially liable parties include:
Commercial Truck Drivers
If an accident was caused by a commercial driver’s negligence, the commercial driver or their insurance company can be held personally liable for damages. Commercial drivers may be negligent if they were driving distracted, driving drowsy, not obeying traffic safety rules, or engaging in dangerous driving.
Trucking Companies
Often, trucking companies share liability for commercial truck accidents. There are a number of ways that a trucking company could potentially be deemed negligent, including not keeping vehicles safe, in good repair, or up to standard, ignoring service hour regulations, or taking other risks that can lead to an accident.
Truck Manufacturers
A defect in a system within a commercial truck could have devastating consequences. Defective commercial truck components can cause brakes to fail, or steering systems to malfunction. If a defective part contributes to a commercial trucking accident, the manufacturer may be liable for damages.
Loaders
Improperly loading a commercial truck can lead to tragic accidents. When improperly loaded, commercial trucks can tip over when making normal turns or going around standard curves. Overloaded trucks take longer to stop and can lead to drivers losing control of their commercial vehicle. If a commercial truck is improperly loaded, the loaders may potentially be responsible for contributing to cause the crash.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Commercial Truck Accident
In the moments after a commercial truck accident, taking specific steps is necessary to protect the safety of those involved and to lay the groundwork for potentially seeking compensation. The following is not medical or legal advice, but information from sources concerning how individuals should react after a truck accident.
Prioritizing Safety at the Accident Scene and Contacting Authorities
The safety of all parties involved should be a top priority after a commercial trucking accident. If possible, move to a safe location to avoid any further accidents or injuries. Turn on hazards to warn other drivers of the accident.
Seek proper medical attention as soon as it is safe to do so—this includes calling 911 for medical assistance if needed. Not all injuries are visible, so individuals involved in an accident should still visit a medical provider to check for potential delayed onset injuries, such as internal bleeding and traumatic brain injuries, including concussions.
If 911 was not already called for medical assistance, contact the police while at the scene of the accident. Filing a crash report and working with the authorities helps to build a stronger case for the future.
Gather Essential Information and Evidence at the Scene
Collect contact information from all parties involved in the accident, including the commercial truck driver, their employer, and any witnesses present. This information includes names, contact information, license plate numbers, trucking company history, and insurance information.
Document the scene of the accident if it is safe to do so. Note the weather conditions at the time of the accident, and take clear pictures of the scene from multiple angles. If there are visible injuries sustained by any parties involved, document those as well. Continue to document injuries—physical and emotional—even after the accident.
Contact Bartimus Frickleton Robertson Rader for a Commercial Truck Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a commercial truck accident, understanding your legal rights is crucial. At Bartimus Frickleton Robertson Rader, we are committed to providing trusted legal representation. Our team of commercial truck accident attorneys in Kansas City is dedicated to seeking answers, ensuring accountability, and delivering justice for those affected by serious accidents.
We understand how overwhelming the aftermath of an accident can be, but you don’t have to face it alone. Reach out to one of our attorneys today using our virtual case tool, or call our office at (913) 266-2300 to speak directly with a member of our team. We’re here to listen and help you find the path forward.
The above is not intended to be legal advice. Each case is different and must be analyzed on its own set of facts and circumstances. If you believe you may have a case, it is critically important that you contact a lawyer quickly to ensure your rights are protected.
