Truck Accident Results in Fuel Leak on Muncie Street

In March, Star Press reported a ruptured fuel tank of a semi truck that leaked nearly 70 gallons of diesel all over the street and into the sewer system after crashing into a utility pole. This occurred on North Walnut Street in front of the Family Dollar. Luckily, no one was injured in the accident, and first responders were able to take care of the damage in just a few hours.

Other accidents that involve semi trucks can cause more severe injuries, even some that are fatal. You would think that if you were in an accident with a semi truck that carried hazardous cargo, it would be similar to a car accident, but that’s simply not the case.

How an Accident with a Semi Truck Is Different than a Car Accident

While there are some similarities to a car accident, an accident involving a semi truck typically involves more property damage and more severe personal injuries. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration stated in 2015 that there were approximately 415,000 crashes involving large trucks. Truck accidents differ from car accidents in a number of ways:

• Larger Insurance Policies: Semi truck drivers typically work for a transportation company. There are a lot more parties from which to seek recovery — the driver, trucking company, manufacturer, etc.
• More Property Damage: Trucks that have a full cargo load can weigh 80,000 pounds. In addition to the cargo, the weight distribution is something to consider since a truck’s center of gravity is higher than a car’s. The damage a semi truck can cause is often severe and costly.
• Higher Medical Bills: The size and weight of a semi truck can result in various injuries and even death. The severity of injuries leads to longer hospital stays and recovery time. This leads to higher medical bills that your insurance may not be willing to pay.

What to Do after a Muncie Semi Truck Accident

After a Muncie semi truck accident, there are a few steps you should follow:

• If Someone Is Injured, Call First Responders: If you are able or if someone else has not already, call the police so first responders can come to the scene. In the situation where medics tell you to go to hospital immediately, go. Take care of your health first; you are the priority. You have the right to refuse treatment at the scene, but we highly encourage you to seek medical treatment if you are injured after a semi truck accident.
• Gather Information: Any information you gather can be helpful. Take pictures of the accident and get the truck registration number, company name, driver’s name, and information of other people who were involved or witnessed the accident.
• Be Aware of What You Say: Talking to police can be confusing. Sometimes you are recalling the order of events for the first time while they are interviewing you. Take your time, breathe, and give your honest account of what happened.

Common Causes of Semi Truck Accidents

Car accidents have common causes, and semi truck accidents do as well. Determining the cause of your accident helps determine fault and negligence:

• Distracted driving
• Under the influence of illegal substances
• Road rage
• Inadequate lighting
• Fatigue
• Failure of pre-trip inspections
• Insecure cargo
• Violating traffic laws
• Violations of hours of service regulations

Do I Need a Muncie Truck Attorney?

Hiring a Muncie truck accident attorney allows you to seek recovery for any injuries, compensation for medical bills and missed work, and payment for ongoing medical needs. A Muncie truck accident attorney can also take the burden of pursuing a claim off of you and let you focus on what’s important: getting back on your feet.

Hire a Muncie Truck Accident Attorney

Accidents involving semi trucks or large cargo trucks can be devastating. The property damage and personal injuries can be costly. Seek help from attorneys at Hensley Legal Group. Recover the compensation you deserve. Call or contact us online today for a free consultation.