The recent semi-truck crash involving comedian, Tracy Morgan, serves as an important reminder regarding state and federal regulations for commercial drivers and the companies that employ them.
Commercial drivers and the companies that employ them must adhere to strict state and federal regulations regarding testing and licensing, vehicle height and weight, drivers’ hours of service, driver log-books and truck maintenance records. If any of these regulations are violated, the driver and the driver’s employer can be held liable if an accident occurs.
Casey & Devoti has over 30 years of experience handling semi-truck accidents. We understand the complexities of semi-truck crash cases. Oftentimes there are multiple liable parties – each with their own insurance companies and their own aggressive attorneys. We also understand that time is of the essence when dealing with a semi-truck crash. We will work quickly and efficiently to obtain vital records such as the driver logbook and the truck maintenance schedule – so that we can determine if you have a viable personal injury case. It is also prudent for a victim to follow certain steps, if possible, immediately following a crash involving a semi-truck.
If you have been in a semi-truck accident, here are the steps you should take:
1) Call the police immediately
2) If you are injured, seek medical attention immediately
3) Collect the name of the driver and the name of the trucking company
4) Gather insurance information from the driver and the trucking company
5) If possible, gather names of witnesses and take pictures of the accident site
6) While it is fresh in your mind, write down everything about the accident
7) Do not admit fault
8) Do not give a statement to the other driver or the other driver’s insurance company
9) Do not sign any papers from your insurance company or the other driver’s insurance company
10) Contact your insurance company right away
11) Seek guidance from an experienced law firm that specializes in personal injury cases
If you or a loved one has been injured in a semi-truck crash, one of our attorneys will be happy to meet with you for a free initial consultation.
Call (314) 421-0763 or submit form.