Truck accidents can be devastating, especially when the semi is carrying hazardous materials. These types of crashes can cause significant property damage and serious or fatal injuries.
Recently a fuel tanker spilled 7,000 of its 12,000 gallons of fuel when it rear-ended a vehicle stopped at a red light. The crash is still being investigated but there is an indication that environmental factors, such as black ice, contributed to it, according to NBC News New York.
After striking the back of the vehicle, the tanker overturned and skidded on Sunrise Highway. Amazingly, both the driver of the tanker and the vehicle suffered only minor injuries. There was, however, extensive property damage in addition to the vehicle that was rear-ended.
Several cars caught on fire and there was damage to a Harley-Davidson dealership and two homes’ vinyl siding melted. It took firefighters 90 minutes to put out the fire.
Legal Action if Seriously Injured in a Truck Accident
Stories like this don’t always have such good endings for the drivers, particularly when they involve trucks transporting hazardous materials. If the victim of the accident had suffered serious injuries, such as burns, it would have turned out a lot differently for both the victim’s and truck driver’s futures.
Those who have been seriously injured in a truck crash can file a claim against the trucking company if the driver was at fault. Although this case might have involved slippery road conditions, it doesn’t mean the driver isn’t partially responsible.
If a truck driver’s negligence can be established, the employer could also be liable for damages that may include:
- the medical costs incurred;
- lost wages;
- pain and suffering;
- mental anguish; and
- disability.
If you or someone you love has been the victim of a truck crash, contact an attorney today. Call Gacovino, Lake & Associates at 800-550-0000 to set up a consultation.
