Hit-and-run accidents involving commercial trucks and 18-wheelers are not as common as those involving passenger vehicles, but they can and do occur. Truck drivers and their employers are generally held to higher legal and professional standards, so when a truck leaves the scene of an accident, it can lead to serious repercussions for the parties involved. If you or a loved one have been injured due to a hit-and-run truck accident, you’ll need to be aware of what to do in order to pursue compensation for your losses and damages.
Statistically, the majority of hit-and-run incidents involving commercial trucks occur because the driver was simply unaware that they caused an accident. Because of a truck’s size and potential blind spots, it’s not uncommon for drivers to not realize they made contact with a smaller vehicle. Additionally, flying debris or lost cargo can easily cause an accident, unbeknownst to the truck driver. However, just because someone was unaware of an accident does not absolve them from liability or accountability for the incident.
If a truck leaves the scene of an accident, it’s important to immediately report the accident to 911 and inform them that the vehicle left. Since these calls are recorded, try to give as many details as possible to the dispatch operator, including the truck’s color, signage, license plate details, or other identifiable information. Additionally, be on the lookout for witnesses who may have seen what happened and ask for their contact information. Take photos of the accident scene, including any damage, debris, or skid marks. Lastly, contact your insurance company to report the hit-and-run and provide all the details to the insurance agent.
In some instances, a truck driver may panic and intentionally flee the scene due to fear of consequences related to fatigue, licensing issues, or driving under the influence. In this scenario, identifying the vehicle, company, and driver is even more essential for the pursuit of potential criminal and civil charges. If the responsible truck cannot be identified, authorities will need to gather as much evidence as possible, including CCTV or dash-cam footage.
Hit-and-run accidents, particularly ones involving commercial trucks, can add a layer of complexity to a personal injury lawsuit. As a result, these cases will require the expertise of a skilled truck accident lawyer who is familiar with handling these types of incidents.
If you or a loved one have been involved in a truck accident in Indiana, contact Hurst Limontes to discuss your options. We have many decades of combined experience fighting for clients. We work on a contingency basis, meaning there is no cost to you unless we reach a settlement or jury verdict award on your behalf.
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