Dealing with Hazardous Materials Truck Accidents

Have you been in an accident with a hazardous materials truck? Because of the danger posed by these accidents, commercial truck drivers who operate semi-trucks transporting hazardous cargo are required to have additional training and maintain higher amounts of liability insurance. A hazardous materials accident can lead to a fire and explosion, toxic releases, and environmental contamination. 

The Indianapolis truck accident attorneys at Craig, Kelley & Faultless LLC have experience handling complex truck accident claims involving hazardous materials. Attorneys David Craig and Scott Faultless are among a select group of attorneys nationwide who have earned certification from the National Board of Trial Advocacy in commercial truck accident law. We have the training and experience to handle the most complex hazardous materials truck accident cases. 

We want to share information about hazardous materials accidents, the harm they can cause in the event of a crash, and how they can affect a subsequent injury claim. If you have been injured in an accident involving a truck carrying hazardous materials, contact us today for answers to your specific questions.

Types of Materials Considered Hazardous

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which regulates the interstate trucking industry, recognizes nine classes of hazardous materials:

• Class 1 – Explosives
• Class 2 – Gases
• Class 3 – Flammable Liquid and Combustible Liquid
• Class 4 – Flammable Solids, Spontaneously Combustible, and Dangerous When Wet
• Class 5 – Oxidizer and Organic Peroxide
• Class 6 – Poison and Poison Inhalation Hazard
• Class 7 – Radioactive
• Class 8 – Corrosive
• Class 9 – Miscellaneous

Commercial vehicles carrying these materials must have placards identifying the dangerous material on board the vehicle to warn other motorists and emergency responders. Commonly transported materials that may fall into these categories can include:

• Fuels and gasoline
• Fertilizer
• Fireworks
• Insecticides
• Lithium batteries
• Paints and paint thinners
• Wood treatment products
• Oxygen tanks
• Alcohols

What Kinds of Threats Do Hazardous Materials Pose?

Hazardous materials can pose a wide range of risks. Some are combustible and can cause explosions and fires resulting in significant burns and scarring. Others are dangerous when inhaled and can cause lung damage. Exposure to hazardous materials can lead to:

• Thermal burns
• Chemical burns
• Eye damage
• Skin irritation
• Respiratory damage
• Neurological issues

Who Has Liability in Case of a Truck Accident Involving Hazardous Materials?

Determining liability after a hazardous materials truck accident can be complicated. Many parties may have contributed to the crash. Often, the blame rests on a negligent truck driver who made a driving error. In some instances, other parties may also be partially liable for the accident, including:

• The trucking company
• The trailer owner
• The cargo loading company
• A parts manufacturer

Commercial truck drivers and trucking companies that transport hazardous materials are required to carry higher amounts of liability insurance because of the harm a hazardous materials accident can cause. The financial stakes are higher in hazardous materials truck accidents. Insurance companies will fight to avoid liability after such an accident.

The Indianapolis personal injury attorneys at Craig, Kelley & Faultless LLC are experienced at investigating semi-truck accidents and holding accountable those who are financially liable.

Call for a Free Case Review with Our Experienced Indianapolis Truck Accident Attorneys 

At Craig, Kelley & Faultless LLC, we are committed to helping injured people seek the money they need to rebuild their lives after serious accidents that weren’t their fault. If you or your loved one has been hurt in a hazardous materials truck accident, you should understand your legal options. We are available to answer your questions and help you pursue justice.

Contact our office today for a free consultation with an Indiana truck accident attorney.