An 18-wheeler driver must follow state and federal laws to avoid an accident, however, when an accident happens, the driver must report the accident and comply with the requests of officers. The investigation determines if the driver is at fault or if other circumstances applied. Officers must complete assessments to determine if the driver complied with all laws.
Contacting Law Enforcement
After any motor vehicle accident, the accident must be reported to law enforcement. The officers play an important part in determining how the accident happened, who was involved, and who is at fault. The officers will also follow protocols to prevent additional collisions, such as closing the roadways and getting emergency services to the scene promptly. When an accident happens, law enforcement must begin a complex investigation when the accident involves an 18-wheeler, as additional state and federal laws apply.
Investigating the Cause of the Accident
A prompt investigation is conducted to determine the exact cause of the accident. The commercial vehicle must be evaluated for any safety issues that could have led to the accident. The maintenance log for the truck and any information from weigh stations are reviewed to determine if fault repairs or unbalanced loads may have contributed to the accident. It is necessary to determine if the trucking company completed all servicing requirements for the trucks to lower risks, and the driver must follow laws pertaining to weigh stations set up around major highways.
Assessing the Commercial Driver
The commercial driver is evaluated and tested for drugs and alcohol, and if drunk or under the influence, the driver will be charged with a DUI. Criminal laws apply to the accident if the driver was guilty of a DUI.
The officers will review the driver’s log and determine if they followed all Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations. All drivers must participate in an eight-hour resting period after they drive twelve hours. If they do not follow these regulations, the driver may cause an accident because of exhausted driving. Victims of 18-wheeler accidents can find out more details by visiting https://www.kanialaw.com/tulsa-attorneys/personal-injury-law/semi-truck-accident right now.
Identifying All Possible Defendants
When starting a legal claim, it is necessary to determine the identity of the defendant. If the driver was operating a truck owned by a trucking company, the trucking company is the defendant in a lawsuit. If faulty parts caused the accident, the manufacturer is the defendant.
Was an Insurance Claim Processed?
Trucking companies may file an insurance claim to provide compensation for the victim. It is recommended that the victim consult an attorney before accepting any settlements. The amount offered by the trucking company must cover all the victim’s financial losses.
An 18-wheeler accident is complicated and requires more complicated investigations than standard auto accidents. There are several parties that could have contributed to the accident beyond the commercial driver. A complete assessment determines who is at fault and who owes the victim compensation. Victims can consult an attorney to find out more about starting legal claims now.
