If you have been involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler there are probably numerous questions that require immediate responses. Hopefully the following information will be useful in the days and weeks following the collision.
First, and foremost, the police should be contacted so that an official report is available. Then all victims should seek immediate medical attention - even if it appears that there are no injuries or that they are minor (although this in itself is unlikely in an accident with an 18 wheeler).
If the accident is the fault of the semi-truck driver then victims should seek redress through the truckers insurance companies. Additionally, your own insurance may provide help as well.
However, there are considerations that come into play in a semi-truck accident that are different than a simple vehicle collision (although wrecks are simple). The trucking industry is regulated by state and federal organizations that impose safety standards.
In placing blame for an accident these safety regulations must be taken into consideration. For instance, there are a maximum number of hours a driver can be on the road before taking a break.
Had the driver gone over the limit? What about the condition of the rig itself? When was the most recent safety inspection? Is all the right paperwork available?
In addition, it must be determined if the trucking company itself will be held liable or will there be a shared liability between the driver and his company? Many drivers are independent contractors with no affiliation to a trucking company, but many times the trucking company will bear legal responsibility for the driver.
Finally, the extent of injuries and damages will play a final role in compensation consideration. Serious accidents are life-changing and it is not uncommon for the financial after effects to take months or even years.
