Steps to Take If You are Involved in a Tow Truck Accident
February 17, 2020
Like ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars, tow trucks are considered first responders since they assist law enforcement and other emergency responders by quickly and safely removing a vehicle that was damaged in a traffic accident. As a result, motorists are expected to give tow truck drivers the same courtesy that they give to ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars by moving over so they can get to the accident site as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, there are times when a tow truck causes an accident, which can result in serious injuries. If the truck driver was negligent in any way, the victim may be eligible for financial compensation. An experienced truck accident lawyer can assist clients with the claims process and recommend the best legal course of action.
There are a range of tow truck designs on the road, and some are safer than others. For example, the flatbed truck, which uses a hydraulic system to pull the vehicle onto the back of the truck, is considered the safest type of tow truck. There are also integrated tow trucks used to tow buses or trucks, and hook and chain tow trucks, which are generally used to tow vehicles to the junkyard. Wheel-lift tow trucks use a metal yoke to hook the vehicle by the front wheels. This type of truck is considered less safe than a flatbed truck
Common Causes of Tow Truck Accidents
Tow truck drivers may engage in unsafe driving behavior like checking their phone, driving while intoxicated or speeding. Unfortunately, if they happen to cause an accident, it is likely that the occupant of the passenger vehicle will suffer the most serious injuries, simply due to the size of the average tow truck. Mechanical failure is another common cause of tow truck accidents. It is the truck driver’s responsibility to ensure that the truck is inspected regularly, and that all necessary repairs are made. Accidents can also occur if tow truck drivers are not properly trained on how to correctly attach a vehicle to the truck. If a vehicle becomes loose, it can cause serious accidents involving severe injuries.
Motorists involved in a tow truck accident should take the following steps as soon as possible:
- Seek medical attention, even if the injuries seem minor.
- Do not apologize for the accident as this can be considered admitting guilt.
- Document the scene of the accident by taking pictures of the vehicles, road conditions, signage indicating speed limits, and weather conditions.
- Exchange insurance information and obtain contact information from the tow truck driver and any witnesses.
- Notify your insurance company.
- Contact a skilled truck accident lawyer.
Baltimore Truck Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Seek Compensation for Victims of Tow Truck Accidents
If you were seriously injured in an accident involving a tow truck, contact the Baltimore truck accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton as soon as possible. We will determine the exact cause of the accident and who was responsible. Our skilled legal team will ensure that you receive the maximum financial compensation you deserve for your injuries. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.
Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Prince George’s County, allowing us to represent truck accident victims in Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Prince George’s County, Queen Anne’s County, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.
