After any hazmat truck crash, it is crucial to ensure the safety of the driver and all passengers involved. As Hazmat accidents or collisions require specific protocols, those within the vehicles must follow specific steps to seek protection and minimize additional damage.

Hazmat Truck Regulations

There are certain regulations for those transporting hazardous materials, and for good reason, because if a hazmat truck crashes it can result in much more of a serious situation than what some assume or what’s visible at surface level.

There are strict containment protocols put in place to protect the driver and everyone on the road. Transporting hazardous materials involves compliance with both state and federal laws and regulations. Some of these regulations may involve:

• The highways in which these materials can be transported.
• Types of materials that can be transported through a certain area because of the population density.
• Time of day certain hazardous materials can be moved.

For the driver, the first step after a hazmat truck accident is to contain the substance and prevent leakage or further leakage onto other areas. The driver and passengers may need to quickly evacuate the scene and ensure that everyone is safe before seeking medical assistance. After contacting appropriate authorities, the driver may either refrain from involvement or help with clean-up based on rules and guidelines in a particular situation. Any other parties should generally remain away from the area to prevent additional injury.

Protection

A trucking accident can be complicated without the right help and protection in place. In a truck accident, there may be several parties involved. The truck driver, the trucking company, a manufacturer of truck parts, or the shipper of the hazardous materials are all parties that could possibly be held liable. A truck accident lawyer and hazmat truck insurance agent can help you determine who is at fault, how they contributed to the accident and help to keep your business protected by negotiating with each other to reach the best possible settlement. Further, they can determine liability to minimize the amount to which you’re at fault, assist you in filing a lawsuit if needed, and assist you in protecting your assets if a claim is filed against you. 

In a serious accident, it is far too common for trucking companies to not have enough insurance coverage for the extent of the damages, especially if multiple people were severely injured or killed.  These crashes can be truly catastrophic. Protect your business by securing adequate coverage before a devastating incident strikes. It is better to be safe than sorry and have peace of mind.

About Tobico Trucking Insurance

Trucking insurance is one of the most difficult types of insurance to obtain, but it doesn’t have to be. At Tobico Trucking Insurance, we are experienced and knowledgeable about the trucking insurance market and the needs of trucking operations of all types and sizes. You need an agent who has the specialized knowledge of this ever-changing industry, and we have the products and the dedicated customer service to provide you with what you need. For more information, contact us any time of day at (469) 731-0707 to find out how we can help you.