What to Do if You’re Hit With Debris on the Highway?
Most people think of reckless drivers when they think of the dangers of highway driving, but road debris is yet another hazard to consider. Rocks, fallen trees, or even parts of other vehicles can be impossible to avoid when traveling at higher speeds. If you suffered an accident caused by highway debris, speak with a California car accident lawyer for an assessment of your claim. You may be eligible to pursue compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses.
According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, road debris caused thousands of accidents annually in the US from 2011-2014, with 9,805 victims suffering injuries. At Eric Ratinoff Law Corp., we can guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve in a debris accident claim.
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6 Steps to Take if You Are Hit With Debris on the Highway in California
If you are hit with debris on the highway, it is essential to take the following steps to ensure your safety and protect your rights in a debris accident claim:
1. Stay Calm and Pull Over Safely
If you are hit by road debris, you should stay calm and pull over safely. Do not slam the brakes or swerve suddenly, as this can cause an accident. Instead, attempt to maneuver your vehicle to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights.
2. Seek Medical Attention
If you were injured, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly, even if you believe the injuries were minor. A medical professional can assess internal damage and start treatment. Additionally, medical records can be used as evidence in a debris accident claim.
3. Assess the Damage and Document the Incident
After pulling over safely, assess the damage to your vehicle and take pictures of any dents, scratches, or other damage. You may also take videos of the debris that hit your car, the location of the incident, and other details. If there were any eyewitnesses, ask for their contact information, as they can testify on your behalf in an accident claim.
4. Report the Accident to Law Enforcement
If the debris was caused by another vehicle, report the incident to local law enforcement. If the debris was caused by a non-motorized object, such as a fallen tree, report the incident to the appropriate authority, such as a local government or utility company.
5. Consult a Debris Accident Lawyer
If you were injured or suffered significant property damage due to the debris accident, consult a debris accident lawyer to determine whether you have legal rights to pursue compensation for the damages you suffered. Generally, if someone is found to be at fault for causing the debris, they may be held liable for your injuries.
6. Contact Your Insurance Company
After speaking with a debris accident lawyer, you may contact your insurance company to notify them of the accident. Your lawyer may advise you not to provide a written statement or give too much detail as they may try to devalue or deny your claim.
Speak With the California Debris Accident Lawyers at Eric Ratinoff Law Corp.
Being hit by debris on a California highway can be a stressful and dangerous experience. At Eric Ratinoff Law Corp., we fight to protect your legal rights if you were injured due to another motorist’s or entity’s negligence.
Schedule a no-cost consultation by calling (916) 970-9100 or filling out our contact form.
