Indiana Accident News

Protect yourself after a semi accident: 5 strategies

Posted on Jul 07, 2011

Semis are the lifeblood of the American economy.

Big-rig truckers deliver goods from manufacturing centers to populations in the most far-flung corners of the United States. While providing an essential function to consumers and businesses alike, the trucking and logistics industry employs 3.5 million truckers and ships $671 billion in merchandise.

But for other drivers, the tonnage carried by semis presents a frightening threat. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, more than 100,000 travelers were hurt and 5,000 killed in semi-related crashes in 2010. So, how can motorists best protect themselves in the event of a semi crash?

1. Get help. For drivers, nothing is more important than safety. Seek immediate treatment for any injuries. Even if you feel fine, it is important to have a doctor evaluate your health, since many injuries take hours or days to appear.
2. Remember the details. Many motorists find themselves shaken up immediately following an accident. Take a deep breath and try to concentrate on the events and your surroundings: the location, weather and the other vehicles involved. If you have a pen and a piece of paper, jot down some notes, or - better, yet - use your cell phone to snap a few pictures.
3. Call the police. Don't let another driver talk you out of contacting the police. They will document the accident with a report and help determine who was at-fault. Record the names, badge numbers and department of the officers at the scene.
4. Exchange information. Be sure to get names and insurance information for any driver involved in the crash. Don't exclude any witnesses, such as passengers or bystanders, who may have valuable information.
5. You don't have to talk. Drivers often find themselves confused and disoriented after a crash. Remember that you have the right to consult a lawyer before making any statement to police. Many trucking companies are large corporations with teams of lawyers ready to pick apart any accident. This is the best way to protect yourself.

The number of deadly trucking accidents fell from 5,200 to 3,200 between 2005 and 2009, according to the United States Department of Transportation. But the threat of injury and death is a constant presence on America's highways. By following these five guidelines, motorists can make the best of a bad situation.

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