The danger of any vehicle crash is compounded when a truck or other large vehicle is involved in the accident. Large commercial vehicles like trucks are on the road to transport heavy items over long distances. That means that trucks can become difficult to maneuver in emergency situations, preventing truck drivers from turning or stopping suddenly due to the weight of their vehicle and cargo. Even without heavy cargo or large trailers, trucks are heavy, making accidents involving them inherently dangerous. Additionally, truck drivers are under extreme pressure to spend long hours on the road, as they need to meet delivery deadlines. This can lead to exhaustion and impaired judgment on the roads. Tired drivers are more likely to make mistakes when driving, increasing the likelihood of accidents. A recent news article discussed a serious truck accident.
According to the news article, one day in late September, a semitrailer was clipped by a car in the southbound lanes of Route 28. The semitrailer then flipped over and exploded into flames, trapping the truck driver inside the cab of the truck. A man driving nearby spotted the accident. He described the crash, saying “While it was rolling, it was already on fire. Then it rolled to a stop, and I immediately pulled over with my kids, told them to stay in the car.” The man then ran to the crash, pulling the truck driver out of the fiery wreckage inch by inch. Eventually, other bystanders assisted him, and they were able to remove the truck driver from the cab. Emergency crews took the driver to a hospital where he remains gravely injured.
What Is the Good Samaritan Law in D.C.
Colloquially known as a good Samaritan law, § 7–401 of the D.C. code, limitation on liability for medical care or assistance in emergency situations, was passed to insulate good faith actors from liability in civil damages resulting from their attempts to assist those in need. The law states “Any person who in good faith renders emergency medical care or assistance to an injured person at the scene of an accident or other emergency in the District of Columbia outside of a hospital, without the expectation of receiving or intending to seek compensation from such injured person for such service, shall not be liable in civil damages for any act or omission, not constituting gross negligence, in the course of rendering such care or assistance.”
Have You Been Hurt in a Washington D.C. Automobile Accident?
If you or someone you love has been hurt or killed in a Washington D.C. car or truck accident, contact the personal injury lawyers at Lebowitz & Mzhen to consult with an experienced attorney. The attorneys at our firm are ready to use their knowledge and compassion to help handle complex cases involving car accidents. Expenses and injuries sustained in an accident can quickly become overwhelming, and having an experienced roster of accident attorneys by your side can make a world of difference in the compensation you receive. Our dedicated team of lawyers helps clients better understand their rights and recover damages for their injuries and losses. Contact our office today to schedule a free initial consultation with an attorney at 1-800-654-1949.