Injury Litigation: 7 Steps to Take After a Semi-Truck Accident
Knowing what to do after a semi-truck accident can help you protect your rights. Learn the steps to take in this injury litigation guide.
Nearly 5,000 semi-truck accidents occur annually. While this figure pales compared to car accidents, such incidents often have a more devastating impact. Truck accidents result in dozens of fatalities and leave over 1,500 people with injuries.
For some, these life-changing injuries result in impairment and the need for medical care for an extended period. Moreover, it can affect your capacity to work and interact with loved ones and leave you with trauma.
This is why hiring a personal injury attorney is essential after such an ordeal. With their expertise, they can help you secure the compensation you deserve. But for this to happen, you must take the right steps after a semi-truck accident.
Keep reading to find out what you should and shouldn’t do after a truck accident.
Steps to Take After a Semi-Truck Accident
Understandably, you may panic and become confused after a truck accident. However, in the aftermath of such an incident, retaining composure and taking the right steps is essential. Begin by ensuring that you and other victims are safe. Then proceed with the following steps:
1. Call 911
Regardless of the accident’s severity, never underestimate the importance of contacting emergency services. Dispatching police officers to the scene ensures a prompt and accurate police report. This documentation is vital evidence for your truck accident claim and medical compensation. It captures crucial details of the incident and all involved parties.
Therefore, don’t allow the truck driver to dissuade you from involving the authorities. Your well-being and legal protection are paramount. A police report provides the foundation for navigating the aftermath of a semi-truck accident.
2. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
As with all accidents, your safety should be your top priority. Once you reach out to the authorities, seek immediate medical attention. Do so even if you feel okay. Some injuries do not manifest immediately.
Remember, delaying medical attention could complicate whatever issue you’re experiencing. Therefore, even if emergency medics assess you at the scene, seek a comprehensive medical evaluation at a hospital or from your doctor.
3. Document Everything
While the nature and cause of the accident may be clear to you, it may not be the same for the courts and insurance companies. Therefore, it’s vital to support your case with appropriate documentation.
Begin by capturing photos and videos of the scene (if possible). With visual evidence, it’s easy to explain the incident. However, it’s important to refrain from moving around if it’s unsafe or if you’re severely injured.
When recording details of the accident, make sure to pay close attention to the following:
- Road conditions
- Weather
- Any other factors impacting driving conditions
Once everything is documented, share it with your attorney. They’ll be able to guide you toward the next steps.
4. Exchange Information
While awaiting police arrival, exchange crucial information with the other driver(s) and witnesses to safeguard against potential hit-and-run scenarios.
Some of the details you should exchange include:
- Full names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses
- Driver’s license numbers
- License plate numbers
- Auto insurance details: company names and policy numbers
In truck accidents, both the driver and the trucking company may be liable. This means information may be needed from both parties. Gathering this data ensures thorough documentation and facilitates smoother legal proceedings. Protecting your rights and aiding your case when seeking appropriate compensation.
5. Be Cautious With Your Words
Instinctively, you’ll want to talk about the semi-truck accident and any catastrophic injuries. However, doing so may harm your case. Post-accident statements could be used against you. Therefore, avoid apologizing or admitting fault. Even if you feel partially responsible.
It’s better to limit discussions of fault to your lawyer, not the truck driver, other parties, or insurance companies. Moreover, try to remain composed despite any distress caused by the accident or the truck driver’s actions.
6. Have Your Vehicle Assessed
After the accident, take your vehicle to a reputable body shop for a thorough inspection and appraisal. Even if the damage seems minor, particularly in accidents involving semi-trucks, there could be hidden internal damage. A professional assessment ensures all damage is documented accurately.
However, avoid authorizing any repairs until consulting with your insurance provider. Each company has specific guidelines for claims processing, and it’s crucial to adhere to their requirements to facilitate coverage for the damages sustained.
7. Get in Touch With a Semi-Truck Accident Lawyer
Considering what’s at stake, seeking legal counsel is paramount to safeguarding your rights and pursuing rightful compensation. A skilled semi-truck accident lawyer specializes in navigating the complexities of personal injury litigation cases, advocating for your best interests at every step.
By enlisting the expertise of a qualified attorney, you can navigate the legal process with confidence and focus on your recovery.
Our Team Is Here To Assist You Every Step Of The Way.
SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY TODAYFactors to Consider When Choosing a Semi-Truck Lawyer
Selecting the right semi-truck accident lawyer is a critical decision that can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here are some essential factors to consider when making your choice.
Experience: Look for a lawyer with extensive experience in handling semi-truck accident cases as an attorney who specializes in this area will possess the knowledge and expertise necessary to advocate for you effectively.
Resources and Team: Assess the resources and team available to support your case as a firm with ample resources and a dedicated team of legal professionals will serve you better.
Reputation: Consider the lawyer’s reputation within the legal community and among past clients by looking for testimonials, reviews, and referrals to gauge the lawyer’s reputation for professionalism, integrity, and client satisfaction.
Communication and Accessibility: Choose a lawyer who prioritizes clear communication and accessibility and makes you comfortable discussing your case.
Fee Structure: Understand the lawyer’s fee structure and any associated costs upfront, as many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only collect fees if they secure compensation for you.
Get the Support You Deserve After a Semi-Truck Accident
From vehicle damage to injuries and inability to work, a semi-truck accident can come with numerous ramifications. As such, taking the right steps and finding a personal injury attorney you can count on is essential.
At Boettcher, Devinney, Ingle & Wicker, that’s what you’ll get: experienced personal injury attorneys who’ll go the extra mile to get you the compensation you deserve. So, reach out to us today for a free case evaluation.
