What You Should Do When a Collision With a Tractor Trailer Leads to Big Consequences

Although all car accidents are unpleasant, a collision with a tractor trailer can be especially scary. After all, tractor trailers – also known as 18-wheelers, semi-trucks, and big rigs – tower over most of us as we are driving beside them. And statistics indicate that the size of these vehicle carries a very real threat. According to the United States Department of Transportation, the number of large trucks that were involved in fatal crashes increased by three percent in a span of just a year.

This threat is also apparent in our own community. The Palm Beach Post has reported that at least fourteen people were injured in a recent collision between a tractor-trailer and a bus. The collision happened early in the morning near the intersection of County Road 827 and South U.S. Highway 27. Palm Beach County Fire Rescue authorities would not comment on the extent of the passengers’ injuries.

What Kind of Injuries Can Be Incurred?

Unfortunately, due to the nature of trailer tractors, collisions with them can be particularly harmful. The most serious injuries can include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, paralysis, and damage of a limb so severe that it requires amputation. Tractor trailer collisions can also, tragically, lead to fatalities.

What Should I Do if I am Involved in a Tractor Trailer Collision?

Being involved in a tractor trailer collision can obviously be very traumatic. However, your actions afterward can have a significant influence on how the accident will impact you. After a collision with a tractor trailer, you should:

• Prior to anything else, identify anyone who is injured beginning with yourself. Seek medical help if needed.
• Move away from any obvious signs of danger including oncoming traffic, gasoline or chemical spills, and any materials that look like they are about to fall.
• Collect contact information from any witnesses at the scene of the crime.
• Call the police and make sure that a police report is filed.
• Do not admit fault to anyone.
• Contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible.

Why Do I Need to Retain an Attorney After a Tractor Trailer Collision?

Tractor trailer collisions involve complex regulatory laws and may also involve multiple issues regarding venue, choice of law, and the parties who should be held responsible. Further, the company that owns the tractor trailer will most likely be represented by counsel who will work with its insurance company to try to ensure that the company pays as little as possible. Therefore, you need an experienced personal injury attorney to fight for you and ensure that you recover what you are entitled to while you focus on recovery.

Have You Been Injured in a Collision With a Tractor Trailer? Reach Out For Help Today.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a collision with a tractor trailer, we can fight for you while you focus on healing. The West Palm Beach personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm are experienced in helping people like you recover the compensation that you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Tampa, Jacksonville, Daytona and Bradenton areas.

Resources:

fmcsa.dot.gov/safety/data-and-statistics/large-truck-and-bus-crash-facts-2016

palmbeachpost.com/news/20181123/at-least-14-injured-in-bus-tractor-trailer-crash-near-south-bay