If you have been made a victim of an 18-wheeler accident, it is important that recover your damages. And to do so, you must possess the proper evidence. Continue reading to learn what evidence you need for your 18-wheeler accident claim and how an experienced car accident lawyer in Queens of The Law Offices of George Poulos can help you in collecting it.
What are 18-wheeler accidents statistics?
First, there is data that states that a fully-loaded 18-wheeler truck can weigh approximately 80,000 pounds. To put this into perspective, this is approximately 20 to 30 times heavier than a standard passenger vehicle. So, due to the sheer size and weight of an 18-wheeler truck, an accident can be quite detrimental, if not fatal.
Second, there is data that a fully-loaded 18-wheeler truck requires approximately 40 percent more space to stop than a standard passenger vehicle. So, due to their minimized reaction time to other motorists and road hazards, truck drivers must proceed with caution on the New York roads. When they do not, this is when an accident may occur.
Why do 18-wheeler accidents commonly occur in New York State?
As insinuated above, when truck drivers do not consider the size, weight, blind spots, and minimized reaction time they have with the truck they are operating, accidents and subsequent injuries and damages are likely to take place. Below is a list of examples of truck driver negligence:
- Reckless driving:
- Failing to break sooner.
- Failing to turn slower.
- Failing to check blind spots.
- Failing to obey traffic signals and signs.
- Distracted driving:
- Texting while driving.
- Operating a GPS while driving.
- Impaired driving:
- Driving while drowsy or fatigued.
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
What evidence do I need to recover damages from my 18-wheeler accident?
To recover the financial compensation that you require to heal after your 18-wheeler accident, you must fulfill the burden of proof. Such proof should tie your injuries and damages to the negligence of the truck driver. Examples of necessary evidence include, but are not limited to, the following:
- A copy of the official police report.
- Photos and videos of your injuries, your car damages, and the contributory hazards.
- The name, number, commercial driver’s license number, company name, etc., of the truck driver.
- A copy of your medical documents that specify the cause and severity of your injuries.
- A copy of your medical bills that specify the cost of required treatments.
For help with this, you must not hesitate in reaching out to one of the skilled Queens personal injury attorneys.
