What are truck drivers required to do after an accident in Baton Rouge?

Baton Rouge, LA – Truck collisions can be very dangerous because of the possibility of serious or fatal injuries to anyone involved. Because of this possibility and the potential for related problems, truck drivers need to receive special types of training to be able to operate their vehicles legally on the nation’s roads. The procedures that must be followed immediately after an accident can be a crucial factor in getting help to injured people at the accident scene.

Checking the area after a crash

Truck drivers are instructed to check the scene and the area to see if anyone requires medical attention. If there are any injuries or apparent serious damage to any vehicles, they should contact the police or emergency services through 911 immediately. Most drivers have some kind of first aid training, and they should check to see if anyone needs to be brought to safety. However, in some situations, improperly moving an injured accident victim around can cause greater harm or even paralysis. Whether the driver followed these procedures or not can be an important piece of evidence if there is a truck accident lawsuit. 

Damage to the cargo

Semi trucks can carry enough cargo at once that there are large dollar amounts to be lost in cases of damage or improper handling. There is also the possibility that hazardous cargo can cause serious issues if it is released onto an open road and infects the local environment. The driver may need to place signs or road flares near the truck and any spilled cargo to alert oncoming drivers of the obstacles. These actions are supplemented by the police after arrival, as they will normally be able to divert traffic away from the crash area. 

Contacting the trucking business

Once the area is secured, the driver will need to contact both their employer and the relevant insurance provider to report the collision and any other potential losses such as damage to the truck itself or the cargo. Many businesses choose to send another truck out to pick up the cargo and transport the driver away from the area. 

Lawsuits against the trucking company

If there are injured drivers, it is likely that the trucking company will be attached as a defendant in a civil lawsuit. The victims will try to receive compensation for their medical bills, lost income, and other losses that were due to the collision.  

Getting in touch with a lawyer after a truck crash

Miller, Hampton, and Hilgendorf handle lawsuits for clients who need to receive compensation after their accidents in the Baton Rouge area. An initial meeting is the best way for new clients to learn about the value of their case and other related matters.

Firm contact info:

Miller, Hampton, and Hilgendorf

3960 Government St., Baton Rouge, LA 70806

225-343-2205

www.mlhlaw.com