What to Do if You Are Involved in an 18-Wheeler Accident in Kenner, LA?

Accidents with semi trucks and 18-wheelers are some of the scariest collisions on the road. The aftermath can be stressful and uncertain to navigate. The steps you take after a truck accident are essential for your own safety, the well-being of others, and your financial future. What should you do if you are involved in an 18-wheeler accident in Kenner, LA?

Some of the crucial steps include:

1. Ensure Safety

First, it is important to get yourself and others to safety and out of the roadway. If vehicles cannot be moved out of the way, people should move out of the way without leaving the scene.

Severe injuries are unfortunately common in 18-wheeler accidents. In Jefferson Parish, which includes Kenner, there were over 3,000 suspected injury crashes in the most recent reporting period, significantly contributing to the $11.6 billion annual cost of traffic collisions in Louisiana.

If someone is injured to the point that they cannot move themselves out of a vehicle, don’t attempt to move them unless there is immediate danger.

2. Call 911

Report the accident to the authorities and report the injuries you are aware of. For accidents within city limits, this ensures the Kenner Police Department or emergency medical services are dispatched immediately.

3. Get Medical Treatment

When emergency responders arrive, ensure you are looked at by medical professionals. Do this even if you think you weren’t injured. Truck accidents are serious, and you may have suffered internal injuries or other damage that shock or adrenaline has prevented you from noticing.

4. Collect Information

When you are able to, document the scene. Key items for a truck claim include:

• Contact and insurance info for all drivers.
• The truck’s USDOT number and trucking company name.
• Photos of traffic conditions near Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) or local construction zones.
• Identification for the commercial vehicle’s trailer and cab separately.

5. File a Police Report

When requested by the onsite officer, provide information for an accident report. Be honest, but don’t admit fault. Getting a copy of the police report is vital for your case. In Kenner, your accident may be handled by:

• Kenner Police Department: Served by the Headquarters at 500 Veterans Blvd. Their non-emergency number is (504) 712-2200
• Louisiana State Police (Troop B): Headquartered directly in Kenner, reachable at (504) 471-2775. Crash reports can be requested online here.

6. Avoid Insurers

If the trucking company insurer tries to talk with you, avoid discussing the details if possible. Do not give a recorded statement or agree to a settlement without legal review, as trucking companies often employ rapid-response teams to minimize their liability.

7. Understand the New Two-Year Deadline

In Louisiana, the legal deadline to file a lawsuit is known as the “prescriptive period.” For decades, Louisiana had one of the shortest deadlines in the country at just one year.
However, the law has recently changed:
For accidents on or after July 1, 2024: Under Louisiana Civil Code Art. 3493.1, you now have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim.
For accidents before July 1, 2024: The old one-year rule still applies.
Even with this extended timeframe, truck accidents require immediate investigation. Data from a truck’s “black box” (Electronic Logging Device) can be overwritten in as little as 30 days. Waiting two years to start your claim could mean losing the most critical evidence for your case.

8. See a Doctor

Don’t leave the scene of the accident early, as you could be accused of a hit-and-run, which carries severe penalties in Louisiana. Once you are cleared to leave, visit a specialist to ensure all injuries are documented.

9. Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer in Kenner

Hire an experienced Kenner truck accident lawyer to protect your rights. Unlike standard car accidents, truck claims involve Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) that require specialized legal knowledge to navigate.

Manage Your Truck Accident Claim With Murphy Law Firm

At Murphy Law Firm, we have 30 years of experience in personal injury claims in southeast Louisiana. Reach out to our firm today.

About The Author

Peyton Murphy

Peyton Murphy, is the founder of Murphy Law Firm, LLC, based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, specializing in personal injury law. Peyton obtained his law degree from the prestigious Tulane School of Law in 1991 and has been licensed to practice law in Louisiana since 1993. With over 28 years of experience, Peyton is dedicated to representing injured victims and actively contributing to his community. Education: Obtained his law degree from Tulane School of Law in 1991. Professional Associations: Member of the Louisiana State Bar and active in the Baton Rouge Bar Association and the Louisiana Association for Justice. Experience: Founder of Murphy Law Firm, LLC, with extensive experience in personal injury law and licensed in multiple federal courts and the U.S. Supreme Court.

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