Hit By A Lorry On The Motorway

Motorways are often the fastest and most efficient way to travel long distances. However, they can also be among the most dangerous roads to drive on due to high speeds, heavy traffic, and the potential for accidents involving large vehicles such as lorries.

If you are ever hit by a lorry on the motorway, it can be a terrifying and potentially life-threatening experience. Knowing what to do in such a situation can make a huge difference in the outcome of the accident. This article will provide a guide on what to do if you’re hit by a lorry on the motorway, as well as tips for preventing accidents involving lorries and staying safe on the motorway.

Motorway Safety

To reduce the chance of being in a motorway accident, it’s essential that you follow the Highway code, don’t speed and take heed of the following guidance –

Lane Etiquette

One of the main rules for driving on a motorway is to keep to the outside lane, except when overtaking. This helps to maintain a smooth flow of traffic and reduces the risk of accidents. It is also important to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, particularly lorries and other large vehicles, as they may have a longer stopping distance.

Fatigue

Another hazard on the motorway is fatigue. Long periods of driving can be tiring, particularly if you are driving at high speeds. Drivers should take regular breaks to rest and ensure they are refreshed before setting off again.

Adverse Weather Conditions

Other common hazards on the motorway include adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain or snow, which can affect visibility and road conditions. It is important to adjust your driving style to suit the conditions and to slow down and increase your stopping distance.

Road Works

In addition, road works and lane closures can also pose a hazard on the motorway. Drivers should pay close attention to road signs and follow the guidance of traffic management personnel to ensure their safety and the safety of other road users.

What To Do If You Are Hit By A Lorry On The Motorway

  1. If you are hit by a lorry on the motorway, the first and most important thing to do is to try to move to a safe location as quickly as possible, if you are able to do so. If you are unable to move, try to signal for help by using your hazard warning lights, horn, or other means to attract attention.
  2. Once you are in a safe location, the next step is to call the emergency services (999 in the UK) and provide them with your location, details of the accident and any injuries you or anyone else may have sustained. It is important to stay calm and provide as much information as possible, as this will help the emergency services to respond quickly and effectively.
  3. While waiting for emergency services to arrive, you should stay away from the lorry and any other traffic. If possible, try to move behind a barrier or to a safe distance from the road. You should also avoid smoking or using any other sources of ignition, as there may be fuel or other flammable substances present that could pose a fire hazard.
  4. If you have sustained any injuries, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you don’t feel like you have been seriously injured. Adrenaline can mask pain and other symptoms, so it’s best to get checked out by a medical professional to ensure you haven’t sustained any injuries that may worsen over time.
  5. If you are physically able to do so, try to gather as much information about the accident as possible, including the registration number of the lorry, the name of the driver, and any witness statements or contact details. This information will be useful when making an insurance claim or seeking legal advice.
  6. It is also important to report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible, even if you don’t plan to make a claim. They will be able to provide guidance on what to do next and may need to contact the other driver’s insurance company to coordinate any repairs or compensation.

Being involved in an accident with a lorry on the motorway can be a frightening experience, but by following these steps and seeking help as soon as possible, you can ensure your safety and take the necessary steps to recover and move on from the incident.

Legal Considerations

Being involved in an accident with a lorry on the motorway can have serious legal implications. If you have been injured or suffered damage to your vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation from the other driver or their insurance company. However, there are several factors to consider when making a claim, including liability, damages, and time limits.

Liability

Determining who is at fault for the accident is a crucial factor in any legal claim. If the lorry driver was clearly at fault, for example, if they were driving too fast, driving while tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or not paying attention to the road, they would be liable for any damage or injury caused.

However, liability can be more complicated in some cases, such as when both drivers are partially at fault or when road conditions or other factors contribute to the accident. It is very important that you do not make any admission of liability prior to a discussion with a legal representative.

Damages

If you have been injured or suffered damage to your vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation for the cost of repairs, medical bills, and any other losses resulting from the accident. It’s important to document all of your expenses and losses, including any time off work, as this will help to support your claim for damages.

Time limits

There are strict time limits for making a claim for compensation following an accident, so it’s important to act quickly. In the UK, for example, if you are over eighteen years of age, then you typically have three years from the date of the accident to make a claim, although this can vary depending on the circumstances of the case.

Legal advice

If you are considering making a claim for compensation, it’s important to seek legal advice as soon as possible. A specialist personal injury solicitor will be able to advise you on your rights and help you to navigate the legal process. They will also be able to negotiate with the other driver’s insurance company on your behalf to ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.

Overall, being involved in an accident with a lorry on the motorway can have serious legal implications, but by seeking legal advice and understanding your rights, you can ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to and get the support you need to recover from the incident.

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