A commercial truck accident can be catastrophic and severe, especially when it involves a passenger vehicle because trucks are much larger than these vehicles. In many cases, a person involved in a truck accident, whether minor or significant, quickly feels confused and frantic.
If you’re in a truck crash and are fortunate enough to walk away with minor injuries, there are some crucial steps to take afterward that will help you in the event that you need to file a lawsuit, with which a truck accident attorneys can help. Read on to learn the 6 steps you should take immediately after a truck accident. It is essential to know your rights, understand how to react, and be prepared just in case you find yourself in a similar situation.
Call the Police
The first step after colliding with a truck is to call law enforcement to the scene of the accident and report every detail about it and how it happened. Furthermore, collect a police report which contains essential information while filing a lawsuit. If you ultimately require medical attention for your injuries, a police report can help substantiate your claim and clarify your case. The details it contains could also prove valuable if your case goes to court.
Get Medical Help
Not all injuries from a collision are evident immediately after the accident; some symptoms may not be apparent for hours or even days; hence it is vital to get immediate medical attention. Because of the size and weight disparities between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles, truck collisions frequently result in serious injuries, including injuries that might not be immediately obvious, as earlier stated. For example, you could suffer internal injuries, a traumatic brain injury, or other injuries that might not immediately show symptoms but still be severe. You can obtain an accurate diagnosis and begin treatment to prevent your injuries from worsening by getting immediate medical attention.
Gather Enough Evidence
In addition to writing down any damage done to you or your vehicle, ask someone to collect evidence at the scene. Take photos of the vehicle damage, tire skid marks, the driver’s license plate, and other relevant details at the accident scene. Write down everything you remember in the moments leading up to your crash as soon as possible. Gathering evidence can have a significant impact on your case’s outcome.
Exchange Information
You cannot obtain compensation from someone you cannot find, so getting the correct information from the drivers of all vehicles involved in the accident is essential. Endeavor to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver involved in the accident. Also, note the truck’s make and model, license plate number, and the driver’s name and contact information.
Don’t Sign Any Papers
The trucking company will get involved almost immediately when a collision happens. Sometimes, they’ll request that their insurance provider contact those involved in the crash and extend a settlement offer. This works in their favor because it helps them avoid a lengthy lawsuit that could ruin their reputation. While it might be tempting to take their offer, wait to sign anything just yet; though you are welcome to listen to their proposition, politely inform them that you’ll need to speak to your lawyer first.
Consult an Attorney
Consider consulting an attorney specializing in truck accidents to help you navigate legal proceedings.
Conclusion
Remember, staying calm and focused after a truck accident is essential. Any loss in an accident is enormous, but it is imperative to know that victims experience different kinds of injuries. Because the law can be tricky and insurance claims adjusters can be even more problematic, having a trusted personal injury lawyer looking out for your interests makes sense. Your main concern should be getting well; let your lawyer focus on fairly compensating you for your losses.