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What to Know if You Were in an Accident With a Coal Truck
Truck carrying coal to the port overturned

What to Know if You Were in an Accident With a Coal Truck

Accidents involving coal trucks can be incredibly jarring and traumatic experiences. The sheer size and weight of these vehicles can often result in serious damage and devastating injuries.  If you have been in an accident with a coal truck, it is completely understandable that you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next.

First and foremost, always prioritize your physical condition and seek medical attention for any injuries you may have sustained. If doctors diagnose you with injuries, your next step should be reaching out to a skilled truck accident attorney who can provide the guidance and support needed.

So, if you find yourself in such an unexpected situation, don’t hesitate to contact a coal truck accident attorney near you. They can ease your burdens, protect your rights, and seek the compensation you deserve.

Schedule a Free Initial Consultation Today!

Seeking Immediate Medical Attention

Stretcher prepared behind open ambulance after the coal truck accidentAfter an accident with a coal truck, your first priority should be to check for physical injuries. In some cases, injuries will be immediately obvious and you might need emergency transportation and trauma care. However, some accident victims might not have such apparent injuries and might be on the fence about whether they need to see a medical professional.

Even if you believe your injuries are minor, always seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries may not appear right away, and a medical professional can accurately assess your condition and provide proper treatment. Delaying medical care can mean you miss potentially serious health issues. It can also weaken your legal case. It’s important to have a timely documented record of any injuries sustained in the accident.

Contact Local Law Enforcement

If law enforcement did not arrive at the scene, always contact them to file a report. A police report provides an official record of the incident and can serve as valuable evidence during an insurance claim. When speaking with the authorities, provide them with accurate and detailed information about what happened. Cooperating with law enforcement demonstrates your commitment to resolving the matter in a legal and responsible manner.

If law enforcement did arrive at the scene, you should request a copy of the report to ensure it is accurate. If not, you can request to amend it.

Liability for Coal Truck Accidents

A fatigued truck driverIn most cases, coal truck accidents are the fault of the truck driver. Truck drivers can make many mistakes on the road, including:

Improper cargo loading is also a common reason for coal truck accidents. When crews do not follow the right procedures when loading trucks, the truck can become imbalanced when in motion, and drivers can lose control.

Your truck accident attorney can investigate and review transportation agency and law enforcement reports to pinpoint the cause of your accident. When the driver or loading crew caused the accident, the employing coal company might also be liable under a legal principle called respondeat superior.

Identifying all sources of liability is critical because these accidents tend to result in serious injuries and losses. This is a key function of an experienced coal truck accident lawyer. Evidence of liability can quickly begin to fade or disappear, especially when it is in the hands of the coal company. Waste no time in consulting a truck accident attorney, so they can demand that the company preserves all potentially relevant evidence in anticipation of possible litigation. This can improve your chances of a successful claim.

Finding the Right Attorney

Lawyer protecting rights of truck accident victimsYou know that you need to hire a coal truck accident attorney, but how do you find the right one? When searching for the right lawyer to handle your coal truck accident case, it is essential to find someone experienced and reputable. Consider the following factors:

  • Industry knowledge: Look for an attorney who has extensive experience working with truck accidents and personal injury law. Their knowledge in this specific area will ensure they have the necessary experience and skills to handle your case effectively. Knowledge of the coal transportation industry can be highly beneficial as well.
  • Experience: Find an attorney with a proven track record of successfully handling this specific type of case. Ask about their past experience and the outcomes of similar truck accident cases they have handled. A seasoned attorney will be familiar with the tactics used by insurance companies and will know how to build a strong case on your behalf.
  • Reputation: Research the truck accident attorney’s reputation by reading reviews, testimonials, and online ratings. Look for positive feedback from previous clients, as it indicates their level of professionalism, competence, and dedication to client satisfaction.
  • Communication: Ensure the attorney values clear and open communication with their clients. You should feel comfortable discussing your concerns, asking questions, and receiving timely updates about your case.
  • Consultation: Reputable truck accident attorneys offer a free initial consultation. Use this opportunity to discuss your case, ask questions, and assess whether the attorney is the right fit for you. Pay attention to how they listen to your concerns and answer your questions.

Contact a Coal Truck Accident Attorney Today

If you or someone you love has been in an accident with a coal truck, first prioritize your health and seek medical attention to get any injuries properly diagnosed. Additionally, reaching out to an experienced lawyer who handles truck accident cases can significantly benefit you.

A coal truck accident attorney will provide the necessary guidance, support, and legal representation to handle the challenges of your case and seek the compensation you deserve. Remember, time is of the essence in these cases, as there may be statutes of limitations that restrict the time you have to file a claim.

Don’t wait to reach out to a Pennsylvania personal injury lawyer and take the first step toward obtaining the compensation you deserve. Truck accident attorneys should offer free consultations so you have nothing to lose by scheduling an appointment today.

Schedule a Free Initial Consultation Today!

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Marcus & Mack

Marcus & Mack
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57 S 6th Street,
The Mitchell House

Indiana PA   15701
1216 11th Ave
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Altoona PA   16601
108 West Beaver Avenue,
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State College PA  16801
334 Budfield St,
#132

Johnstown PA  15904
12 West Long Ave.
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DuBois PA  15801