Truck accidents involving hazardous materials are often reported across San Diego, and these are pretty challenging to deal with, based on the nature of the toxic substances being carried. These accidents have the possibility of exposing the victims as well as the surroundings to poisonous chemicals and can also lead to fires or explosions. Thus, it is necessary to take suitable legal help to deal with the complexities. Moreover, the trucks and vehicles involved in this accident must follow separate safety precautions compared to any standard vehicle collisions. Let’s get to know your rightful steps to get fair compensation and protect your health and rights.
- Prompt Safety Measures
After the accident, one must prioritize safety. So, move away from the vehicle as far as possible so you won’t be harmed even if a fire breaks out. Hazardous substances could be airborne or toxic, so relocate to a safe distance, call the emergency helpline number, and inform the nearby police station and the dispatcher. Do not touch the spilled materials, as it can also result in life-long health issues.
- Go through Legal Procedures and Documentation
After ensuring that you are at a safe pace, you have to gather evidence from the accident scene to file for compensation. Try to capture photos or make videos of the vehicles and any visible signs of damage or material spills. This documentation will help establish the other party’s fault or negligence. This will also prove whether the other party has failed to follow the regulations regarding the transportation of hazardous materials. Also, inform the insurance provider about the incident and take steps to file a compensation claim.
- Get Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you find minor to no injuries after the truck accident, you must get a thorough medical checkup done. This would ensure whether you have been exposed to any toxic materials or any underlying health problem. In these situations, the symptoms might not happen immediately but take time. So, medical documentation can help you seek the proper compensation to support your health even in the future for personal injury.
- Understand Compensation and Legal Claims
Truck accidents involving hazardous materials can lead to complex legal disputes, which can only be resolved by truck accident lawyers San Diego. Thus, it becomes necessary to understand your legal rights and the compensation you are entitled to. You might also get awarded compensation for the punitive damages if the accident occurred due to the recklessness of the trucking company or driver.
- How a Lawyer Can Help?
When handling a truck accident with a vehicle carrying hazardous materials, expertise is required to go to a resolution. Only a knowledgeable and experienced attorney can manage the negotiations with insurance companies, deal with clauses laid by them, and ensure that you do not get a lowball settlement.
They can help you get a fair deal for your future medical costs or long-term impacts due to exposure to hazardous substances, loss of wages, and physical and mental disturbance. They can also prohibit situations that can lead to delays in compensation.
