What should I do after a truck accident?

Getting into a truck accident can be a terrifying and overwhelming experience. But staying calm and taking the right steps can make a huge difference in protecting your safety and legal rights. Here’s what you should do after a truck accident:

Prioritize Safety

The first priority is to ensure everyone’s safety. Move to a safe location away from traffic if possible. Turn on your hazard lights and set up flares or warning triangles if you have them. This will alert other drivers and prevent further collisions.

Call for Help

Once you’re in a secure area, call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. Even if there are no apparent injuries, it’s crucial to have the accident documented by law enforcement.

Gather Information

While waiting for the police to arrive, gather as much information as possible about the accident. Exchange contact and insurance details with the truck driver and any other parties involved. Take photos or videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. These will serve as valuable evidence later.

Surprising Facts

1. Truck accidents often involve severe injuries: Due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks, accidents involving them tend to result in more severe injuries and fatalities compared to passenger vehicle collisions.

2. Trucking companies have teams of lawyers: Major trucking companies have legal teams dedicated to protecting their interests in the event of an accident. Having your own legal representation can help level the playing field.

3. Truck accident claims have strict deadlines: There are strict time limits for filing truck accident claims, which vary by state. Missing these deadlines can jeopardize your ability to seek compensation.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to get a medical evaluation after a truck accident. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately. Having a record of your injuries can be crucial for any future legal claims or insurance purposes.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with the details you gathered at the scene, but avoid admitting fault or making any recorded statements until you’ve consulted with a lawyer.

Consider Legal Representation

Truck accident cases can be complex, involving multiple parties and intricate regulations. Consulting with an experienced truck accident attorney can help protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses.

Learn More

• Truck Accident Liability: Understanding who may be held responsible in a truck accident, including the driver, trucking company, and others.
• Truck Accident Injuries: Common types of injuries sustained in truck accidents and their long-term impacts.
• Truck Accident Compensation: What damages and losses you may be entitled to recover after a truck accident.

Remember, staying calm, gathering evidence, and seeking proper medical and legal assistance can make a significant difference in the outcome of your truck accident case.