Each car accident is unique. When you add a semi-truck into the equation things get increasingly complicated.
Although large trucks are responsible for just a small fraction of car accidents, the damage and harm they cause are often extensive.
If you’ve been involved in a crash with a semi-truck and got injured, then you will need the help of a good St. Louis auto accident attorney. The process of filing a claim may be different than in a regular car wreck and you need someone who can guide your steps.
The Insurance Company Will Do Anything to Get out of Paying
Because the damage a large truck can inflict is so extensive, most trucking companies carry insurance that can be worth 50 times more than the policy on a passenger vehicle. Such a claim can be worth millions of dollars, which is why the company will do anything to avoid paying it. If they can prove that you share at least part of the blame, then they will significantly lower the amount or deny the claim altogether. Another common strategy is offering a seemingly high settlement to distract the victim from the real value of their claim. An experienced St. Louis car accident lawyer can educate you on all these tactics and teach how to avoid making any costly mistakes.
The Amount of Information You Need to Gather Is Extensive
One of the first things you need to do after a car crash is gather as much information as possible. That includes the at-fault party’s driving license and contact details, the name and phone numbers of witnesses, a copy of the police report, and so on. The same stays true in the case of a collision with a semi-truck accident, the only difference being that the amount of information you need to collect is significantly higher. For instance, you may also need to get copies of their GPS data, electronic logbook, driving history, and any record of safety and maintenance violations. All these details will help you build a strong case and combat any dirty tactics that the insurance company may try using.
They Cause Serious Injuries That Require Extensive Medical Care
A fully loaded commercial truck can weigh as much as 80,000 pounds. And, when a vehicle this size goes up against a 3,000-pound car, it’s easy to understand how the damage it causes can be devastating.
Because the injuries resulting from a semi-truck accident are more serious than the ones sustained in a regular car crash, the medical treatment will also be more extensive. That often means in-depth tests, longer hospital stays, more days missed from work, more time needed to recover, and so on. All that can turn into a financial burden if you’ve lost your job and don’t have the means to pay for the piling medical bills.
An auto accident lawyer can help you estimate the cost of present and future damages and ensure that you will receive the compensation you are
4 Signs of a Dangerous Truck Driver
While many truck drivers take their responsibilities seriously and adhere to strict safety standards, there are some who cut corners and put themselves and others at risk. If you’re a motorist sharing the road with a trucker who seems to be driving unsafely, it’s important to be aware of the signs so you can take appropriate action to protect yourself and others. Here are some tale-tell signs a trucker is driving unsafely.
Speeding in Heavy Traffic
This is perhaps the most obvious sign that a driver is not following the rules of the road. There are a number of reasons why truck drivers speed, including the pressure to meet deadlines and the desire to make up for lost time. However, speeding is incredibly dangerous, and it significantly increases the risk of an accident. When a truck is speeding, it takes longer to stop, and it is more likely to roll over if it hits a bump or tries to make a quick turn. If you notice a truck driver speeding, you should report it to the authorities. By taking action, you can help keep the roads safe for everyone.
Tailgating
Tailgating ranks among the most dangerous forms of erratic or reckless driving. It occurs when a driver follows too closely behind another vehicle, making it difficult to stop or take evasive action if necessary. When a truck driver tailgates, they put themselves and others at risk of serious injury or death in the event of a crash. Moreover, tailgating can also lead to road rage, as the driver who is being followed may feel pressured to speed up or make sudden lane changes.
If you notice a truck driver tailgating, the best thing to do is to give them plenty of space and avoid passing them if possible. You can also report their behavior to the authorities if you feel it poses a danger to other motorists.
Weaving in and Out of Traffic
Weaving in and out of traffic is another dangerous sign a truck driver is driving unsafely. Not only does it put other motorists at risk, but it also increases the chances of an accident. There are several reasons why truck drivers weave in and out of traffic. First, they may be trying to get ahead of other vehicles so they can make their delivery on time. Second, they may be tired and not paying attention to their surroundings. Third, they may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you notice a truck driver weaving in and out of traffic, it’s generally best to stay away from them.
Driving Slowly
If you see a trucker driving slowly, it could be a sign that they are tired or impaired. It could also be a sign that there is something wrong with the truck. If you see a slow-moving truck, it is best to give them plenty of space.
More signs:
- Talking on the phone or texting while driving
- Failing to signal when changing lanes or turning
- Rolling stop at stop signs
- Driving without headlights at night or during inclement weather
- Intoxication (drugs or alcohol)
These are just a few of the many signs that a trucker is driving unsafely. Be sure to stay alert and use caution when driving around trucks.
St. Louis Injury Lawyer
Semi-truck accidents are often complex. However, with an experienced lawyer on your side, you maximize your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve. Give us a call 24/7 at (314) 361-4242 for a FREE case evaluation.
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