Experiencing a rollover collision with a commercial truck is both severe and complex. These accidents have the potential to seriously affect your financial stability, emotional and physical health, and overall well-being. The sheer weight and dimension of commercial vehicles frequently magnify the effect of such crashes.
According to TruckInfo.net, there were 168,300+ truck accidents in 2022, and around 4,760 of these accidents were fatal. Texas led the nation in truck accidents in 2022, with Florida, California, Illinois, and Pennsylvania filling out the top five. In 2022, there were around 76,100 injuries from truck accidents.
This type of accident usually involves significant damage and multiple parties, including the trucking company. The involvement of these various entities can complicate the recovery process. Effectively managing both short-term and long-term problems is necessary to deal with the fallout.
In this post, we’ll provide practical guidance on how to handle the consequences of a rollover incident with a commercial truck.
Immediate Actions at the Scene
In the event of a rollover collision with a commercial truck, prioritize safety and call emergency services immediately. Due to the scale of such accidents, there may be additional hazards like leaking fuel or debris.
Move to a safe location if possible and avoid approaching the truck, as there could be a risk of explosion or hazardous materials. To document the situation, take several pictures of the truck, the surroundings, and any obvious damage.
Get witness contact information, and make a note of the truck’s business name and details. This information will be crucial for the later stages of recovery and legal processes.
Seeking Medical Attention and Follow-Up Care
Following a rollover collision with a commercial truck, it’s critical to seek medical attention even if you feel uninjured. The force of these accidents can cause hidden injuries, such as internal damage or whiplash, which might not be immediately apparent.
NIH notes that in 1928, Harold Crowe coined the term “whiplash” to describe injuries to the neck brought on by abrupt changes in speed. Later, this phrase was expanded to “whiplash-associated disorders” (WAD) to cover a wider range of neck symptoms following car crashes. The term has been expanded to include a range of neck-related issues caused by these accidents.
Obtain a comprehensive medical evaluation and follow your doctor’s advice for treatment and rehabilitation. Ensure all medical procedures, treatments, and related expenses are documented thoroughly.
This paperwork is necessary for both your claim and any future legal action. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are important to monitor recovery and address any emerging issues.
How Local Legal Experts Can Help
Dealing with the legal aspects of a rollover collision involving a commercial truck can be particularly challenging. Local legal experts with experience in vehicle accidents can offer critical assistance.
Since trucking businesses usually have extensive resources, they can assist you in holding the responsible party accountable. Lawyers can guide you through the process of filing claims, negotiating settlements, and ensuring you receive fair compensation for injuries and other losses.
They can also assist with gathering evidence, such as obtaining driver logs and truck maintenance records, which are vital for establishing fault.
Often, roundabouts or intersections are designed in ways that can increase the risk of rollover accidents. Local legal experts can also investigate these factors to determine if poor design or maintenance played a role in the collision.
For instance, KHBS reports that locals in Rogers, Arkansas, are complaining that a freshly renovated crossroads is now extremely unsafe. Despite a $11 million effort to connect West Pleasant Grove Road to Highway 112, there are no traffic signals at this major intersection. This forces drivers to make unsafe judgments, especially when they are driving 55 miles per hour.
In such cases, the risk of accidents with large vehicles like commercial trucks is heightened, as these vehicles require more space to maneuver safely. The absence of traffic signals or stop signs exacerbates the danger, increasing the likelihood of collisions and rollovers.
In the unfortunate event that something goes wrong, a Rogers car accident attorney can offer crucial legal assistance. By drawing on their extensive understanding of regional traffic rules and regulations, they can make a compelling argument. They can also put forward strong arguments based on their familiarity with the specifics of local intersection issues and safety standards.
Managing Financial and Emotional Impact
The financial and emotional repercussions of a rollover collision with a commercial truck can be significant. Examine the financial impact, taking into account possible lost wages, medical costs, and repair expenses.
Explore financial assistance options, such as medical payment coverage or emergency funds, to help manage these costs. On the emotional front, dealing with such a traumatic event can lead to stress, anxiety, or PTSD.
The NIH highlights that a study found 48.2% of victims had at least one psychiatric disorder 6 months after an accident. The prevalence increased to 52.5% at 12 months and remained at 49.3% at 24 months.
Moreover, more than 42% of patients showed fluctuating diagnostic patterns across follow-up periods. This underscores a high incidence of mental health issues and inconsistency in diagnoses following accidents.
Seek support from mental health professionals, support groups, or counseling services to address these challenges. Addressing both the financial and emotional aspects of your recovery is crucial for a comprehensive approach to managing the aftermath of the accident.
FAQs
How serious is a head-on collision?
A head-on collision is extremely serious due to the full force of impact from both vehicles colliding. It often results in severe injuries or fatalities because the combined speed amplifies the collision’s force. Immediate medical attention is critical, as injuries from such accidents can be life-threatening.
What qualifies as a serious injury in a vehicle accident?
Trauma to the brain, damage to the spinal cord, or numerous fractures can result in major injuries in an accident. For some injuries, surgery, extended rehabilitation, or critical care may be necessary. Such injuries could seriously and irreversibly affect a person’s overall health and quality of life.
After being in an accident, when should we contact legal counsel?
When there are serious injuries or disagreements over who is responsible, it is advisable to think about hiring an attorney. Legal professionals can assist with the complexity of claims and legal procedures. They’ll assist in making sure your rights are safeguarded and you receive fair compensation for the damages you’ve suffered.
Rollover collisions with commercial trucks are harrowing events with lasting consequences. While prioritizing safety and seeking medical attention are paramount, the legal and financial battles can be challenging.
Local legal expertise can be a powerful asset in these situations. Understanding the emotional and financial impact is crucial to ensure a comprehensive recovery process. Remember, addressing both physical and mental health is key to moving forward after such a traumatic experience.