Driving through the vast expanses of Arizona, the roads are often shared with large commercial vehicles, including semi-trucks.
When you’re behind the wheel, these trucks can be daunting neighbors on the highway or in Phoenix intersections.
In an unfortunate event that a semi-truck collides with your vehicle from behind—commonly known as being rear-ended—the experience can be not only frightening but also complex due to the unique factors involved with commercial vehicles.
The ramifications of being rear-ended by a semi-truck can extend beyond the immediate safety concerns and vehicle damage.
The size and weight of semi-trucks mean that impacts can result in significant injuries and complex legal considerations.
It’s important for you to understand what steps to take immediately after such an incident, as well as being aware of how to navigate through the claims process, to ensure protection of your rights and interests.
In Arizona, where trucking routes are plentiful and the traffic of heavy vehicles is a constant, knowledge of these processes is especially critical.
The legal landscape can include negotiations with trucking companies and their insurers; understanding these aspects can decidedly influence the outcome of a claim.
Being informed empowers you to handle the aftermath of such collisions with assurance and clarity.
Understanding Rear-End Collisions
When you’re driving on Arizona’s roads, rear-end collisions are a risk to be aware of, particularly with large commercial vehicles like semi-trucks.
Such collisions can have severe consequences due to the size and weight of semi-trucks.
Common Causes of a Rear-End Accident
The factors leading to rear-end accidents can vary widely, but some causes are more pervasive than others.
Here’s a breakdown of the common culprits you should be conscious of:
- Following Too Closely: Semi-trucks require a greater stopping distance due to their mass. When a vehicle tailgates a semi, or if a semi is following another vehicle too closely, it can easily result in a rear-end collision if the lead vehicle brakes suddenly.
- Distracted Driving: This is one of the top causes of rear-end accidents. When drivers are texting, using a GPS, or are otherwise distracted, they may not react in time to a slowing or stopped vehicle ahead.
- Speeding: Traveling over the speed limit can decrease the available time a driver has to react and stop, making rear-end collisions more likely, especially where semis are concerned.
- Driver Fatigue: This is particularly relevant for semi-truck drivers who are on long hauls and may be operating on too little rest, impairing their reaction time.
- Sudden Stops: Abrupt halting, whether due to traffic, road conditions, or other obstacles can catch following drivers by surprise. This is especially hazardous if the trailing vehicle is a semi-truck.
Immediate Actions After Accident
After being involved in a collision where you are rear-ended by a semi-truck, specific measures should be taken to ensure your safety, adhere to legal requirements, and set the stage for any necessary claims.
What to Do After Being Rear-Ended by Semi Truck
- Ensure Safety: First, check for injuries to yourself and passengers. If safe to do so, move to a safe location away from traffic to prevent further accidents.
- Call 911: It’s essential to report the accident to authorities, even if there are no immediate apparent injuries. Police will document the scene and create a report, which can be vital later on.
- Document the Scene: Take photographs or videos of the vehicles involved, your injuries, and the surrounding area from multiple angles if you can do so safely.
- Exchange Information: Gather the truck driver’s contact information, insurance details, and the trucking company’s name. Confirm the truck’s license plate and obtain identification numbers on the commercial vehicle.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel unharmed, it’s important to have a medical professional examine you as some injuries may not be immediately noticeable.
- Gather Witness Contact Information: If there were any witnesses to the incident, secure their contact information for future reference.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Promptly inform your insurer about the accident. It’s advised to provide facts without admitting fault or providing a recorded statement without legal counsel.
- Consult With an Attorney: Consider seeking legal advice to navigate the complexities of commercial truck accident claims. An attorney specialized in this field can guide you through the process and help maximize any potential settlement.
Each step is crucial to protect your interests following a collision with a semi-truck in Arizona.
Remember to remain calm, act deliberately, and prioritize your wellbeing during this process.
Legal Considerations
When you’ve been rear-ended by a semi-truck in Arizona, understanding the legal aspects is crucial for protecting your rights.
Your ability to sue and seek compensation hinges on several legal requirements, with time limitations being a significant factor.
Statute of Limitations in Arizona
In Arizona, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims such as being rear-ended by a semi-truck is typically two years from the date of the accident.
This means you must file a lawsuit within this timeframe to pursue any legal action against the party responsible for the accident.
If you fail to act within these two years, you effectively lose your right to sue for damages resulting from the accident. It’s important to initiate the legal process early, as gathering evidence and building a strong case can be time-consuming.
Medical Concerns
When your vehicle is struck from behind by a semi-truck in Arizona, the impact can inflict significant injuries, many of which may not be immediately apparent.
It’s crucial to be aware of common injuries, so you can seek timely medical evaluation and treatment.
Common Injuries from a Rear-End Accident
Whiplash: Often resulting from the sudden jolt of a rear-end collision, whiplash is a neck injury caused by rapid back-and-forth movement. Symptoms can include neck pain and stiffness, and sometimes they manifest days after the incident.
Spinal Injuries: The force exerted by a semi-truck can cause various spinal injuries, ranging from herniated discs to more severe spinal cord damage. You may experience symptoms like back pain, numbness, or even paralysis.
Head Injuries: In a rear-end collision, your head could strike the steering wheel or headrest, potentially leading to concussions or other traumatic brain injuries. Look out for headaches, dizziness, or changes in your cognition.
Fractures: Bones can break under the stress of a rear-end collision. Common fractures involve the ribs, arms, and legs.
Soft Tissue Injuries: You can sustain injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, known as soft tissue injuries, which might result in swelling, pain, and reduced mobility.
For a thorough evaluation after an accident, especially with a vehicle as massive as a semi-truck, consider immediate medical attention even if you feel fine.
Some injuries take time to reveal themselves, and early medical documentation is pivotal for your health and any potential claims for compensation you might pursue.
The Law Gang Truck Accident Lawyers
When you’re facing the aftermath of being rear-ended by a semi-truck in Arizona, the legal team you choose can significantly impact the outcome of your case.
The Law Gang Truck Accident Lawyers are specialists in navigating complex truck accident claims with precision and dedication.
Personalized Attention:
- Your case is unique, and The Law Gang understands that. You receive one-on-one consultations to ensure your legal strategy is tailored to your specific circumstances.
Expertise in Trucking Regulations:
- With extensive knowledge of federal and Arizona state trucking laws, The Law Gang is equipped to provide you with the expert guidance necessary to navigate the intricacies of your claim effectively.
Proven Track Record:
- The firm boasts a history of securing favourable outcomes for their clients, including substantial settlements that reflect the gravity of their losses and injuries.
Resource Accessibility:
- By choosing The Law Gang, you gain access to:
- A network of accident reconstruction experts
- Medical professionals for injury assessment
- Financial analysts to estimate claim value
No Win, No Fee Commitment:
- You deserve justice without financial risk, which is why The Law Gang operates on a contingency fee basis. You won’t pay legal fees unless they win your case.
Aggressive Advocacy:
- The Law Gang’s lawyers are known for their tenacity in pursuing the compensation you rightfully deserve, negotiating robustly on your behalf.
By entrusting your case to The Law Gang Truck Accident Lawyers, you’re not just hiring an attorney; you’re teaming up with advocates who are committed to standing by your side throughout this challenging time.
All over Arizona we can help including;
- Phoenix
- Tucson
- Mesa
- Chandler
- Glendale
- Scottsdale
- Gilbert
- Tempe
- Peoria
- Surprise
- Yuma
