Who Investigates Interstate Truck Accidents in Oklahoma?
Truck accidents often result from human errors like DUI, distracted driving, fatigue, speeding, and blind spot negligence. However, factors beyond the driver’s control, like defective parts, improper loading, tire blowouts, weather, and insecure trailers, can also contribute to these accidents. To properly identify the liable party, your trusted Tulsa truck accident attorney will conduct a thorough investigation into your accident. However, they may not be the only entity conducting further investigations into your case.
If your accident happened on Tulsa’s nearby interstate highways such as I-44 and I-244, both state and federal agencies will conduct investigations into your truck accident. These agencies aim to identify causes of the accident, enhance safety, and ensure compliance with regulations, fostering a safer environment on our interstate highways.
Which state agencies will investigate my interstate highway truck accident?
Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Troop S: With a focus on ensuring compliance with commercial vehicle regulations, Troop S of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol is well-equipped to handle the complexities associated with accidents involving large trucks on the interstate roadways. They will be one of two state agencies to conduct a thorough investigation of factors contributing to your accident.
The Oklahoma Department of Transportation Services: The Oklahoma Department of Transportation Services investigates your accident jointly with state and federal agencies to identify regulatory concerns and enhance safety measures in an effort to promote future safety on our roadways.
Which federal agencies will investigate my interstate highway truck accident?
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA): The FMCSA is the primary authority overseeing and enforcing trucking industry regulations, ensuring commercial vehicles adhere to safety standards. They will investigate with the aim of preventing future accidents by assessing efficacy and adherence to existing safety protocols within the trucking industry.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB): The NTSB may become involved in the investigation of your Tulsa truck accident when the truck’s cargo poses substantial risks to public safety. Materials may include:
- Hazardous Substances: Corrosive chemicals, radioactive materials, toxic or carcinogenic substances and any substance capable of causing harm to human health or the environment.
- Flammable Materials: Substances that are easily ignited, such as gasoline, propane, or other combustible materials.
As part of their investigative processes, each of these agencies may interview individuals who were involved in the collision including drivers, passengers, and witnesses, to gather first-hand accounts and information about the incident. While these interviews are important and contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the factors leading to the wreck, you should not answer any questions without first speaking with an experienced Tulsa truck accident injury attorney from Biby Law Firm.
5 reasons to have a lawyer before talking to investigative agencies
- Protection of rights: A lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected throughout the investigation. They can advise you on what information you are required to provide and what details you do not need to disclose.
- Preventing self-incrimination: Talking to investigative agencies without legal representation may inadvertently lead to statements that could be used against you. A lawyer helps you avoid unintentional self-incrimination and guides you on what to say or not say during interviews.
- Detailed investigation: Your lawyer can independently assess the evidence collected by investigative agencies, ensuring that the process is fair and that all relevant facts are considered. Your lawyer will also gather evidence that you can present to the agencies, helping to shape a more balanced and accurate picture of the circumstances surrounding the accident.
- Understanding complex legal procedures: Investigations involving state and federal agencies can be complicated. Your trusted Tulsa personal injury lawyer can help you understand the procedures involved and the potential legal implications of the investigation.
- Legal strategy: Should the investigation lead to legal proceedings, having a lawyer early on allows for the development of a sound legal strategy to protect your interests and rights.
At Biby Law Firm, our personal injury attorneys carefully review the details from each agency’s report before formulating a strong legal strategy on your behalf. While this can be a long process, with a strong legal team on your side you can rest assured no stone is left unturned and all evidence is analyzed for its impact on the case.
If you have been injured in a Tulsa highway truck accident you need a credible team to determine and protect your rights. Personal injury compensation usually includes medical bills, property damage, lost income, pain and suffering, and related expenses. The experienced Tulsa truck accident attorneys at Biby Law Firm will seek to hold all liable drivers and/or trucking companies fully responsible for their part in your or your family member’s injuries or wrongful death.
Trust Biby Law Firm to provide dedicated legal assistance throughout the legal process after your highway truck accident. Please see our testimonials and read how our team has supported clients in and around Tulsa in the pursuit of justice after a truck accident. Call or contact us today to get started with a free consultation about your case.
Jacob Biby has spent his legal career helping folks just like you get the resources they need after a personal injury, car accident, or oil field injury. He completed his undergraduate degree at Oklahoma State University and earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of Tulsa in 2008. Jacob is licensed to practice in all Oklahoma state and federal courts. Learn more about Jacob Biby.