Getting involved in a truck accident is a scary experience that may leave you confused about what to do next. It often gets complex, especially since so many parties may be liable. No one is ever prepared for an accident; they’re random and may throw you off the path your life was taking.
When you are involved in a truck accident, where do you start, and from whom do you make your claim? The following is a step-by-step guide on what to do after getting involved in a truck accident.
Report the Crash
When involved in a vehicle accident, you must remain at the scene of the crash. Take measures to make sure you are visible to oncoming cars by turning the hazard lights on, light road flares if possible, and putting cones around your vehicle. Taking precautionary measures ensures that you are safe and prevents another accident from occurring.
If you or someone else suffered an injury or died, call 911 immediately. Calling the state highway patrol or police may also work. Once the officer arrives, they will assess the accident, fill in the accident report then instruct you on what action to take next. In case you end up going to court over the crash, request a copy of the report for you to present as evidence.
Seek Medical Attention
Whether you are injured or not, you must seek medical treatment. Sometimes, the sudden gush of adrenaline prevents the body from feeling any pain, which could bar you from noticing an injury.
If you did not get any medical attention at the accident scene or immediately after, then visit your doctor as soon as you can. A medical professional will check and determine if you have any hidden injuries and highlight any medical care you need.
Failing to seek medical treatment may interfere with your chances of getting compensation. Especially when injuries appear later and you need to prove the relationship between the injuries or illness with the accident.
Identify the Parties Involved
Identify any signs or marks on the truck and any other vehicles involved. While it’s very likely that the truck driver could be at fault, it’s also probable that the company they work for is liable.
Identify any potentially responsible party, basically everyone involved in the accident—exchange information with the parties while at the scene. Once you’ve left the location of the accident, it can be much harder to trace and trust the parties involved.
Their names and the truck’s company name aren’t enough contact details. Get the following information from all the drivers involved:
- The name, phone number, email, and address of the driver
- The driver’s insurance and policy information
- The truck driver’s license number, plate numbers, and truck and trailer number
- All the requisite contact information of the truck driver’s employer
Document the Accident and Check for Witnesses
Look around for any witnesses to the accident. You can collect a statement from the witness yourself and request their contact information if any more details are needed. If your case goes to court, the witnesses may come in handy. Check the accident report for any possible witnesses interviews by the police that you missed.
To document the accident, take photographs with your camera. Videos of the scene can also be helpful. Record the severity of your injuries, the amount of damage done to your vehicle, and information you deem necessary. The advantage of photographic evidence is that it’s hard to dispute; photos are a great way to make sense of an accident and determine fault.
You may also record your job or your recovery process through a photo journey. Your recovery documentary can be used as evidence to show how severe the injuries were, how long it took you to heal, and the pain and suffering endured. Such kinds of documentation help in the determination of compensation you’ll receive.
Choose Your Words Wisely
An insurance adjuster will likely contact you. Remain careful with the information you choose to give them. At this point, it’s safer to have identified a reputable truck accident law firm.
You must speak to a truck accident attorney before talking to insurance adjusters. Let them analyze your case and advise you on what to share with the insurance company without negatively impacting your compensation.
Remember that though you must communicate with the insurance company, giving a statement is not a requirement.
Speak to an Attorney and Claim Compensation
Truck accidents can be quite complicated, mainly because many parties may often be involved. Dealing with multiple insurance companies while dealing with injuries, and the trauma that comes with being in an accident is a lot to handle. Therefore, speak to an attorney as soon as you can.
Finally, the best thing you can do for your case is immediately after the accident, get all the contact information, record as much evidence as you can at the scene of the accident then leave the rest in the hands of your attorney. Remember your health comes first, do all you can to allow your body to recuperate.
