What to Do After an Accident Involving a Truck Carrying Hazardous Materials 

 Posted on February 13, 2023 in Truck Accidents

Large commercial trucks are one of the primary ways of transporting goods across the Lonestar state. Many semi-trucks carry everyday items such as produce, clothing, furniture, or electronics. However, there are also trucks on the road carrying extremely dangerous materials.

Hazardous materials such as explosives, toxic gases, flammable liquids, and corrosive substances can be incredibly dangerous. In the event of an accident involving a truck carrying hazardous materials, these dangerous chemicals may be released into the air or onto the road. The materials may catch fire, exponentially increasing the severity of the situation.

If you or someone you care about was involved in an accident involving a hazmat truck, reach out to a truck accident injury attorney for help. You will likely face life-changing consequences because of the accident, including substantial financial losses. Your attorney can help you file a claim to pursue compensation for these losses.

Types of Hazardous Materials Transported By Truck

Trucks can be found transporting many different types of hazardous materials. Some of the most common are:

• Industrial and medical chemicals

• Flammable liquids such as gasoline, kerosene, or diesel fuel

• Compressed gases such as propane, acetylene, and helium

• Explosives used for blasting or demolition

• Fuel for nuclear power plants

• Radioactive materials and waste

The Dangers of a Hazardous Materials Truck Accident

When a truck carrying hazardous materials is involved in an accident, the potential risks increase dramatically. Truck accident victims may face long-term health issues related to the accident if they were exposed to hazardous materials during the crash. Even after the scene is clear and cleaned up, these effects may persist for years or even decades.

Damages in a Hazmat Truck Crash Injury Claim

If you or a loved one were involved in an accident with a hazmat truck, you may be able to file a claim for compensation. Depending on the particular case, damages that may be available include:

• Medical expenses - Whether you suffered burns, lung damage, brain or spine injuries, or another type of physical injury in the crash, the road to recovery will likely be long and expensive. Through a truck accident injury claim, you may be able to recover compensation for past medical expenses related to the crash as well as your present medical needs such as pain medication and rehabilitative care.

• Lost wages - After an accident, you may need to take time off from work to heal. This can put a strain on finances, which is why compensation for lost wages can be so helpful.

• Pain and suffering - The pain and suffering you experience after a truck accident can be just as damaging as the financial losses. Fortunately, you can fight for compensation for these intangible but very real damages.

• Property damage - The accident may have caused significant damage to your vehicle, personal items, or other property. If so, these costs may also be eligible for recovery in your truck accident injury claim.

Contact Our Dallas County Personal Injury Lawyer

If you or someone you care about was involved in an accident with a hazmat truck, contact skilled Dallas personal injury attorney Jerry D. Andrews to learn about your legal rights and available options. Attorney Andrews has secured multiple favorable settlements and verdicts in his career, and he can help you hold the liable party accountable for your damages. Call 214-221-5800 to set up a free consultation.

Source:

https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/hazardous-materials