Hit and Run by an 18-Wheeler: How to Identify the Truck and Pursue Compensation?
Being involved in a hit-and-run accident is stressful for anyone, but when the vehicle is an 18-wheeler, the situation becomes far more complicated and potentially dangerous. Unlike passenger vehicles, commercial trucks are subject to federal and state regulations that govern everything from registration to insurance requirements. While this might seem overwhelming at first, these regulations actually provide important tools that can help you identify the responsible party and pursue the compensation you deserve.
One of the most critical pieces of information in a hit-and-run involving an 18-wheeler is the USDOT number. Every commercial truck operating on interstate highways is required to display this unique identification number on the truck’s doors. The USDOT number is typically located on the side or front doors of the truck, often near or below the company logo. If you are involved in an accident and the driver flees the scene, a clear photo of the USDOT number can be a crucial lead. Even if you do not have a picture, noting the company logo, color of the truck, and any identifying marks can help law enforcement and your attorney track down the truck later.
In addition to the USDOT number, knowing the company name can be extremely helpful. Many trucking companies operate multiple trucks across different states, but because all interstate commercial trucks are registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation, it is possible to access detailed information about the company and its vehicles. The FMCSA Company Snapshot tool (https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov/CompanySnapshot.aspx) allows anyone to look up critical details about a trucking company, including the business owner’s name, address, phone number, insurance coverage, and whether the insurance is active. This information is publicly available and is often the first step an experienced attorney will use to identify the responsible parties and locate their insurance company.
Because 18-wheelers are subject to stricter federal regulations than regular vehicles, there are often additional avenues to hold both the driver and the trucking company accountable. For example, trucking companies are required to maintain adequate insurance coverage for their vehicles and drivers, and failure to comply can result in penalties. This regulatory framework makes it easier for attorneys to pursue compensation even in hit-and-run cases, where the driver initially leaves the scene.
Documentation is key in these situations. In addition to taking a photo of the USDOT number, it is important to gather as much information as possible at the scene, if it is safe to do so. This includes photos of the truck, the damage to your vehicle, skid marks, the surrounding area, and contact information for any witnesses. Your attorney can use all of this evidence, along with the USDOT and company information, to track down the driver and insurance company and build a strong case on your behalf.
Being involved in a hit-and-run with an 18-wheeler can be overwhelming, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself and increase your chances of recovering compensation. By documenting the truck, using public databases like the FMCSA Company Snapshot tool, and consulting an attorney who understands the complexities of trucking accidents, you can hold the responsible parties accountable. A skilled attorney will know how to navigate the regulations, identify the right contacts, and fight for the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
To learn how uninsured motorist coverage helps in these cases, read [Why Everyone Needs Uninsured Motorist Coverage].
You can also explore [How Can We Tell How Much Insurance the Other Driver Has?] to see how lawyers identify coverage after a hit-and-run.
