What Happens If I’m Hit by an Object From Another Vehicle?
December 13, 2018 | Car Accidents
In 2010, there was an average of 51,000 crashes caused by loose, falling debris on the road. Objects can fall from vehicles for many reasons, but if an object falls from a vehicle and hits a driver or pedestrian, they may have a valid negligence claim against the other driver. If you have been hit by an object from another vehicle, it’s important to seek help from a car accident lawyer because you may be entitled to compensation for damages from the accident.
How Do I Prove Damage from Another Driver’s Unsecured Cargo?
It isn’t uncommon to see debris on the side of the road while driving, but what if a loose object or debris falls and hits you or your vehicle and causes damage? If this happens, you need to prove by gathering evidence such as pictures, video or witness statements that your injuries or property damage occurred because of loose, fallen debris from the other driver’s vehicle. This is important because the more evidence that you collect from the scene of the accident, the more supported your claim will be.
Penalties for Driving with Unsecured Cargo
If you have been harmed by an object that has fallen from another vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries or property damage and have a valid claim against the other driver. Failure to properly secure cargo to a vehicle is a serious offense and can result in penalties such as:
- Hefty fees and fines for violating your state’s rules on transporting cargo and other large goods on roadways
- The loss of your driver’s license or truck driver’s license
- Potential jail time depending on the severity of damage and injuries done to the other driver
- Liability costs for your employer – if you are a truck driver and fail to secure cargo to your truck properly, your employer could be subjected to fines from the accident under the vicarious liability law
If a driver is hit by an object from another vehicle with unsecured cargo, they may be entitled to recover economic and non-economic damages. Possible damages that can be recovered from the accident include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other costs that stemmed from the crash.
Should I Speak to a Lawyer About Being Hit by an Object from Another Vehicle?
It is essential to call a car accident lawyer after an accident to discuss damages that you may be entitled to recover from the negligent driver. Your lawyer will have the experience needed to help you write a persuasive demand letter, file an effective accident claim, and make sure that you receive a settlement amount that you’re satisfied with. Failure by a passenger or commercial motor vehicle driver to properly secure cargo can result in serious injuries, damage, and even death in some cases, so it’s important to make sure that these drivers are held accountable for their actions. If you are ready to discuss your accident case with a car accident lawyer who will:
- Evaluate your case
- Create a tailored plan for your claim
- Keep you updated on the details of your claim
- And fight for your damages from being hit by an object from another vehicle
Choose the Dixon Injury Firm to represent your case. Our car accident attorneys are passionate about helping those who have suffered due to the negligence of other drivers and are committed to putting their all into recovering damages for their clients. To discuss your claim after being hit by an object from another vehicle, contact the Dixon Injury Firm today.