You may think that all accidents are the same, but the outcomes can be different with semi-trucks. A crash involving a sedan, a pickup truck, or an SUV often only results in mild injuries and minor damage. However, if a semi hits you, the size of the vehicle can cause major damage and increase your chances of sustaining severe injuries. That is the reason why Truck Accident Attorney in Daytona Beach are in demand.
Stringent Driving Requirements for Truck Drivers
For anyone driving a truck on the road, there are higher levels of requirements for these drivers. The trucking industry also has more regulations to reduce the number of catastrophic accidents on the road. These driving standards help to protect everyone on the streets and highways in the United States. If the truck driver or company is negligent with their duty on the road, they can be legally liable for all damages and injuries in an accident.
Higher Insurance Requirements
Under Florida law, all drivers must carry a minimum of $10,000 in liability insurance. Those premiums are higher for those driving a semi-truck due to the larger size of the vehicle. In Florida, truck drivers must carry $50,000 to $750,000 in insurance. However, many trucking companies take a higher insurance policy to protect their assets from a lawsuit.
For those transporting hazardous materials, they are subjected to even higher insurance requirements for their vehicle. All HAZMAT drivers must carry at least $5 million in personal injury liability and property coverage for transporting these dangerous materials.
What to Do After a Truck Accident
An accident with a truck is a traumatic experience. You will need to follow a few steps to hold those liable for a crash. Negligent drivers and trucking companies must be accountable for your injuries or damages. Here are a few things to do after a truck accident with a negligent driver:
Remain on the Scene
You will want to stay on the accident scene. Notify the police of the crash, and they will conduct their investigation of the accident. If there are any injuries, you should not attempt to move the victim and immediately hire Daytona Beach Truck Accident Lawyer.
Document All the Details
You also want to take pictures or write down as much information as possible. You can also collect contact information and insurance details from the other drivers too. All this information will help you with your impending lawsuit.
File a Police Report and Notify Your Insurance Company
When the police arrive, give them a full statement about the accident. When you come home, you can notify your insurance company. Unless instructed by your attorney, you should never sign documentation or reports from the insurance company.
Get Medical Help
If you are seriously injured, you will be transported to the hospital for treatment. Most people do not feel the full extent of the injuries until days after the accident. You should always get an evaluation done to check for internal injuries that may not appear until after the crash.
Seek the Advice of a Truck Accident Attorney Daytona Beach
Once you have been treated for injuries, you will want to seek the legal advice of an experienced personal injury attorney. At Zimmet & Zimmet, we can help you navigate through the complicated process of a lawsuit. Call our Daytona Beach office at (386) 255-6400 to schedule a consultation for your case.
