All personal injury attorneys know that accidents with 18-wheelers are extremely serious and handle them differently than normal passenger vehicle crashes. Truck drivers have to follow different laws and rules when on the road, which makes them all the more complicated. But what if an 18-wheeler is hauling hazardous cargo?
The Basics.
In general, hazardous materials are things that pose significant health or safety risk. This can be anything from explosives, flammable materials, corrosives, and much more. When trucking companies haul these items, they have specific regulations they must adhere to, on top of the other safety laws normal truckers follow.
Truckers who haul this cargo must undergo special training. The trucking company is also responsible for ensuring that their cargo is labeled, packaged, and handled appropriately. Because of the complexity of these laws, local law enforcement responding to the crash might not be aware of these regulations. That’s why speaking to an attorney is so important if you are involved in an 18-wheeler crash.
Another notable factor is the increased insurance limits these trucks have to carry. This can be anywhere between $1 to $5 million dollars depending on the state, carrier, and cargo being delivered.
Who is Responsible?
This isn’t a simple question to answer. Often times, it requires a detailed investigation to get the bottom of whos at fault. It can be the driver, trucking company, truck manufacturer, or shipping entity. For a better understanding of who might be at fault, meet with an experienced truck accident attorney.
Wondering the Worth of Your Personal Injury Case?
After a personal injury accident, your top priority should be recovering. Not trying to figure out which damages you may be eligible for and determining the value of your claim on your own. Consult a Texas personal injury lawyer from The Law Giant, Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers.
To find out how much your personal injury claim is worth, contact The Law Giant right away. You can count on us to investigate your situation and ensure you secure the fair compensation you deserve. To schedule a free, initial evaluation of your case, contact us today at (866) 523-4167.
