What Should I Do Immediately After a Truck Accident?
The steps that you take immediately after a truck accident will greatly impact your ability to get the compensation you deserve. Truck drivers face significant consequences for crashes caused by their negligence. This causes many to try to minimize their involvement as much as possible.
Always Report the Accident
When a truck driver’s negligent behavior causes an accident, it is imperative to report it to the local police immediately. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the collision, the truck driver may try to convince others involved in the crash not to call the police. However, a police report greatly affects an injured person’s ability to collect compensation for their injuries.
Take Photos
Taking pictures of the accident scene immediately after a collision with a tractor-trailer is incredibly valuable when it comes time to show what damages each party sustained. Take photos of:
- Any injuries
- The truck’s license plate
- The damage to all the vehicles involved
- Any features of the scene that may have contributed to the accident (an obscured stop sign, for example)
- The truck driver’s license and insurance information
Those involved in a wreck with an 18-wheeler must prioritize their safety when moving around the accident scene. While taking pictures is helpful, they should avoid anything that could worsen their injuries or cause further risk.
Collect Witness Contact Information
If anyone witnessed the accident, their testimony will be vital in establishing what led to the collision. Witnesses often have a better view of the accident than either vehicle involved directly. An injured party can contact a witness directly or connect them with their lawyer to obtain evidence that shows the truck driver’s negligence more clearly.
Wait for Emergency Help to Arrive
After a truck collision, those involved should not leave until they have talked to the police, that is unless they need emergency medical attention or feel unsafe at the accident scene. They need to pay attention to local regulations while waiting at the scene.
Seek Medical Care
After a crash with a heavy commercial vehicle, a person may immediately know they need medical attention. Some serious injuries might include:
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord damage
- A traumatic brain injury
- Cuts and lacerations that need immediate attention
On the other hand, some people might walk away from a truck accident unaware that they suffered invisible injuries such as head trauma or internal bleeding. Failure to receive prompt treatment for those injuries could lead to long-term consequences to their health.
Get in Touch With a Local Lawyer as Soon as Possible
Connecting with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible after an accident is critical to ensure that you get the compensation that you deserve. Whether your accident just occurred or you have questions about what to do as time moves forward, an attorney will help you understand your rights, manage your case, and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
At Price Benowitz, our committed lawyers have extensive experience dealing with vehicle accident claims. Call today to learn more about the support our team could provide you after a serious accident.
