If an older trucker collides with your car, and you sustain catastrophic injuries, speak to a truck accident lawyer for help building a case. Although it doesn't pertain to every commercial and passenger car driver, some elderly individuals lack the visual, hearing, and cognitive abilities to operate safely on the road. The decline in abilities can be dangerous for you, your passengers, and the truckers themselves. Here are important facts about older truck drivers and what you should do about your accident.

What Do the Statistics Say about Older Truck Drivers?

CBS News online reveals that accidents involving older commercial truck drivers may increase over time for drivers aged 70 to 90 years old. So, why is there an increase in older commercial drivers in the first place?

As with younger truckers, a number of older drivers take to the road in order to supplement their income. Other individuals may choose to drive for a living because they simply want to work. In any case, the drivers who cause accidents may lack the skills, training, or health to operate large, powerful machinery and equipment properly. In addition, trucking companies and schools have a great need for drivers. As long as the applicants and students pass their initial tests and meet the companies' needs, they qualify for work. 

If the trucker who collided with your vehicle didn't have the necessary training or wasn't in good health, you may have a case against them.

How Do You Pursue Your Case?

It's a good idea that you contact a personal injury attorney who specializes in trucking accidents. In order to obtain compensation for your injuries and prove that the trucker lacked good training or health, you need to prove it. The proof you need may include obtaining records of the driver's medical and driving history.

While the local court system may provide public records about the trucker, it may not reveal everything to you. Some court systems prevent the public from viewing certain legal records, including closed criminal records and civil records. If the trucker has a history of bad driving that included civil suits, you may not have access to view them. An attorney can request permission from personal injury court to obtain the necessary documents that benefit your case.

It's important to understand that obtaining civil and certain criminal records about the negligent driver may take time. An attorney can tell you more about this particular aspect of your case when they consult with you.

For more information about bringing a case against the trucker, contact a trucking accident attorney.