What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Truck Accident
In recent years, the likelihood of being involved in a crash with a commercial truck has significantly increased. In fact, since 2009 there has been a 52 percent increase in truck accidents, according to Policy Advice. This percentage encompasses all types of truck accidents, including hit-and-runs. These types of accidents have also increased. According to AAA, there has been an increase of 682,000, on average, every year of hit-and-run truck accidents since 2006.
Hit-and-run accidents are always extremely stressful, particularly when the vehicle that fled the scene is a commercial truck that caused extensive injuries. You are likely wondering if you can claim compensation, and how to prove the negligent party is liable. Fortunately, it is still possible to claim compensation after a hit-and-run truck accident and below are the steps that can help you do it.
Why Do Truck Drivers Leave Accident Scenes?
Just like other motorists on the road, there are a variety of reasons why truck drivers flee accident scenes. The most common of these are as follows:
- Panicking
- Intoxicated drivers who fear arrest or other consequences
- Lack of proper insurance coverage
- Expired commercial driver’s licenses
- Fatigued drivers who fall asleep at the wheel
Sometimes, truck drivers may not even realize they caused a crash. In these cases, they may not intentionally flee the scene, but that does not mean they should not face the consequences of their actions.
Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Trucking Accident
Before understanding the steps to take after a hit-and-run truck accident, it is important to know what not to do. Never try to chase a fleeing truck, as this can create further danger for yourself, other motorists, and pedestrians. Instead, take the following steps in the weeks and months following the crash:
- Take note of as much information as possible: If you are able to do so safely, you should take note of the truck’s license plate number, the make and model of the truck, any logos, names, or colors on the body of the truck, and any other relevant information.
- Contact law enforcement: Police officers can provide the immediate help you need after a crash, and they can also conduct a search for the negligent truck driver.
- Record the location and other details of the crash: You should take note of the exact location where your crash happened. It is also important to take note of any other details, such as what happened just before the crash occurred and how the accident happened, if you can recall. Details are very important and can help police piece together what happened.
- Locate witnesses: It is not uncommon for truck accident victims to feel disoriented and confused after a crash. Locate witnesses who were not harmed during the incident and who may recall other important details that you cannot. Also determine if there are nearby businesses who may have captured the truck, the license plate, or other important details on their video surveillance system.
Call Our Truck Accident Lawyer in San Antonio
After any accident involving a truck, it is critical that you get sound legal advice. This is particularly true after a hit-and-run. At the Law Office of Israel Garcia, our San Antonio truck accident lawyer can provide it and outline your legal options, help you exercise your rights, and advise on the next steps to take. Call us today at 210-LAW-9999 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to get the sound advice you need.
Sources:
policyadvice.net/insurance/insights/truck-accident-statistics/
newsroom.aaa.com/2018/04/hit-run-deaths-hit-record-high/