A flatbed tow truck is a large, powerful vehicle that is designed to allow a car to sit on the back of the bed so it can be transported from one location to the next. Instead of being hoisted up and carried at an angle, the entire vehicle sits flat on the bed of the tow truck. These types of tow trucks may be used for vehicles that cannot move due to significant damage or otherwise cannot be transported traditionally.
The Dangers of Flatbed Tow Trucks
Flatbed trucks pose significant risks for several reasons. The bed is open-air, with no roof or sides to it. That allows for items from the nonfunctioning vehicle that were damaged in an accident or otherwise loose on the bed of the truck to become dislodged. This may lead to damage to cars that are following the flatbed during the transport process. It may also create highway debris that can lead to accidents.
Flatbed tow trucks require a significant amount of work to elevate and move the nonfunctioning vehicle onto the back of it. As a result, there is a risk for chains to snap or the vehicle to become loose—causing damage to other cars.
Some flatbed tow trucks are also used for very large vehicles. They may be used to carry other types of loads, including those that are oversized, such as logs or construction equipment. In these situations, the materials may extend beyond the edge of the truck bed, creating obstructions for other drivers and creating a higher risk of objects toppling off of the vehicle.
Other risks from flatbed tow trucks may stem from:
- Unsecured loads
- Uneven loads
- Poor weather conditions
- Brake failures
- Rear-end collisions
- Overloaded on weight
- Lane obstructions
What to Do If You’re in an Accident With a Flatbed Tow Truck
If for any reason, you suffer damage to your vehicle, injuries, or other losses caused by a flatbed tow truck, there are several things to do as soon as possible:
- Call 911 if there are any medical emergencies. Even if you feel okay, a visit to the emergency room may help ensure any unknown injuries are taken into consideration.
- Don’t leave the scene of the accident. Instead, call the police to properly document what’s occurred.
- Take pictures of the scene. If safe to do so, take photos of what’s occurred, including any damage, the flatbed tow truck, and the debris involved.
- Gather contact information for any witnesses. That’s important to do even if you think you’re okay right now. Problems can arise later.
- Don’t admit fault or apologize. Even if you believe you’re partially to blame, don’t state anything but the facts in what’s occurred.
- Reach out to a tow truck accident attorney. Working with a professional as soon as possible ensures your rights are protected throughout the process.
Potential Injuries and Compensation From a Tow Truck Accident
Large debris striking a moving vehicle at a fast rate and with ample force can cause numerous injuries to other drivers and passengers.
- Head injuries
- Lacerations and tissue damage
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken or shattered bones
- Head trauma leading to neurological damage
Compensation for losses from these types of accidents may include anything you’ve lost financially as a result of the accident. This may include:
- Emergency room visits
- Surgical procedure costs
- Medication costs
- Rehabilitation costs
- Costs related to lost time at work
- Pain and suffering
How a Texas Tow Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help
Working with a Texas tow truck accident attorney enables you to get help from the start of the claims process. Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters without having an attorney guide you.
You can count on your attorney to help you determine what your losses are and who is at fault for them. If possible, they will work with you and the insurance adjuster to negotiate a claim only after all of your losses are fully understood. If not possible, they can help you take the responsible party to court to pursue financial compensation for you.
Contact our legal team for a free consultation to discuss your case. The Button Law Firm is dedicated to working closely with you to ensure your rights are protected.
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