Roadways like I-95 and I-64 are some of the largest trucking lanes in Virginia. The large commercial trucks on these roadways are essential to our local and national economy, but due to their sheer weight and size, they can also pose an immense risk to other drivers should an accident occur. Knowing what to do after a truck accident on I-95 or I-64 in Virginia is crucial, and the bilingual team at Brooks & Baez is here to protect your rights to compensation.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents Along I-95 and I-64
In the United States, 65% of all traffic fatalities can be traced back to overloaded trucks or unsecured cargo. It is important to be aware of all common causes of truck accidents along I-95 and I-64, as this can help you better identify liable parties and calculate compensation.
In Virginia, the most common causes of truck accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Fatigued drivers
- Impaired driving
- Defective trucks or components
What to Do Following a Truck Accident in Virginia
In 2024, 72.4% of all American freight was transported by trucks. When a truck accident occurs along I-95, I-64, or anywhere in Virginia, there are certain steps that should be taken to protect your own safety and the viability of a future injury claim. These steps include:
- Move to safety. First and foremost, it is essential that you check yourself over for injuries and move to safety off the roadway if you can. You should also try to move your vehicle out of the way of any oncoming traffic or, if this is not possible, turn your hazard lights on.
- Call 911. Even if you do not feel physically injured, it is wise to call 911 and report the accident to the police while also requesting emergency services. Another party involved in the crash could be suffering severe injuries, and you might also have sustained invisible harm, such as internal bleeding. Following the accident, it is likewise important to seek follow-up care from your primary care physician.
- Collect evidence. If you are physically able to do so, you should try to collect evidence that can help support a future claim. This evidence can include photos and videos of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and your injuries. You should also request a copy of the police report.
- Exchange information. It is important that you exchange information with the at-fault driver, including any contact information, insurance information, and their employer’s information. During this interaction, do not discuss fault. Even saying a simple, “I am sorry,” could be seen as taking responsibility for the accident and resulting damages.
- Contact your insurance. You may want to contact your insurance and let them know about the accident. However, do not discuss fault, and in most cases, you can actually have your attorney handle this step.
- Consult an attorney. Finally, it is essential that you speak to an attorney who can represent you and protect your rights when it comes to securing the compensation you deserve.
About Brooks & Baez
At Brooks & Baez, our attorneys have been advocating for the rights of personal injury victims since 2016. We understand that these are trying times for you and your loved ones, and we want to do whatever is in our power to help you recover compensation. Over the years, we have secured millions of dollars for our clients, and while this by no means guarantees future outcomes, we are here to put the same level of legal excellence and dedication into all cases we represent.
FAQs
How Long Can a Truck Accident Claim Take to Settle in Virginia?
The amount of time it takes to settle a truck accident claim in Virginia will ultimately depend on the factors of your case. These factors can include the availability of the evidence, the availability of the courts, the complexity of your case, and how willing the involved parties are to cooperate with one another to reach a settlement outside of court. Most personal injury cases are settled out of court.
How Can a Truck Accident Lawyer Help Me?
There are many ways in which a truck accident lawyer can help you after suffering injury. First, your attorney is there to review your case and help determine who the liable party, or parties, may be. They can also assess all damages and calculate the full and fair amount of compensation you are entitled to. They can then enter into negotiations to secure this compensation on your behalf.
What Kind of Compensation Is Available to Victims of Truck Accidents?
For the victims of truck accidents, there are a number of forms of compensation you may be able to recover, depending on the extent of your injuries and property damage. These forms of compensation include all related medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of the enjoyment of life, loss of consortium, and wrongful death damages, such as funeral and burial costs.
What Injuries Are Common in a Truck Accident?
In a truck accident, there is a range of injuries that can commonly happen as a result. These injuries include broken bones and fractures, concussions and other forms of traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, which could result in partial or complete paralysis, severe burns, cuts, bruises, and lacerations, whiplash and other soft tissue injuries, facial and eye injuries, and internal injuries, such as organ and nerve damage.
Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you or someone you love has suffered injuries or other damages in an accident with a large commercial truck, the team at Brooks & Baez is here to serve you. These are serious accidents that often result in severe and debilitating physical injury and even death. Whether you live in Richmond, Glen Allen, or Tuckahoe, we are here to serve you.
To hire a truck accident lawyer and be made aware of your legal rights, contact the offices of Brooks & Baez today and schedule your initial consultation.
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