What Should I Do After a Truck Accident?

Being involved in a truck accident can be a traumatic and confusing experience. Knowing what to do immediately afterward will protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. At Big River Trial Attorneys, we handle truck accident cases and are here to guide you through every step of the process. From calling emergency services to documenting the accident scene and dealing with insurance companies, we provide the comprehensive legal support you need. Our dedicated team will fight for your interests, helping you secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Don’t wait—contact Big River Trial Attorneys today for a free consultation. Call us now at 225-725-6000 for a free consultation.

5 Immediate Steps After a Truck Accident

After a truck accident, you need to take immediate action to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone involved. The first step is:

1. Call emergency services. Dialing 911 will bring police, firefighters, and EMTs to the scene, who can provide necessary medical attention and help manage the accident scene.

Next, ensure your safety and that of others by following these steps:

1. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic.
2. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
3. Assess the condition of everyone involved and offer first aid if needed.
4. Wait for emergency services to arrive.

Call Emergency Services

After a truck accident, you need to call 911 because reporting the accident to emergency services will ensure that police, firefighters, and EMTs arrive quickly to assist. Their presence is needed whether you are severely injured or just need help managing the accident scene.

When you call 911, clearly describe the accident scene, the number of people involved, and any visible injuries. This information will help emergency responders prepare and provide the necessary medical attention upon arrival. Remember, timely medical evaluation can diagnose injuries that might not be immediately apparent.

Ensure Safety and Move to a Safe Location

Once you have called for help, your next priority is to ensure safety. If the accident scene is in a dangerous location, such as the middle of a busy road, and it is safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side. This can prevent further collisions and additional injuries. If moving the vehicle is not possible, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of the accident.

Staying inside your vehicle might be the right option if the vehicle is off the road and there is no risk of fire or other immediate dangers. Use your best judgment to determine the safest course of action for you and others involved in the accident.

Check for Injuries and Provide Aid

After the accident, start by assessing your own condition, then check on your passengers and others involved in the crash. If anyone is injured, provide first aid to the best of your ability while waiting for emergency services to arrive. Providing immediate aid can make a significant difference in preventing injuries from worsening.

Even if you feel uninjured, the adrenaline rush from the accident might mask pain or injuries. Stay in your vehicle if you are hurt and wait for professional medical help.

Documenting the Accident Scene

If you need to receive compensation or file an insurance claim for the accident, documenting the scene and gathering evidence helps establish liability and supports your claim. Start by taking detailed photographs and videos of:

• The accident scene
• Vehicle damage
• Road conditions
• Any visible injuries

This visual evidence can be compelling in legal proceedings and insurance claims.

Collecting contact information from witnesses and other drivers involved in the accident is essential. Eyewitness testimonies can provide valuable insights into how the accident occurred and help strengthen your case.

Take Photographs and Videos

Take photographs and videos of the entire accident scene, including close-ups of vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions. These images will help maintain the integrity of the accident scene and prevent any alterations.

Documenting the weather conditions and noting any relevant details can also be helpful. This visual evidence supports your version of events and can be used in legal proceedings to substantiate your claim.

Collect Witness Information

Gathering witness information is another critical step. Approach anyone who saw the accident and ask for their contact details. Witness statements can play a significant role in establishing liability and providing firsthand accounts of the incident.

Ensure you write down the names, phone numbers, and addresses of witnesses. Their testimonies can be invaluable in your accident claim and help support your version of events.

Exchange Information with Other Drivers

After documenting the accident scene and collecting witness information, exchange contact and insurance details with the truck driver and other drivers involved. This information is necessary for filing insurance claims and ensuring all involved parties have the necessary details for their case.

Make sure to collect driver’s license information, insurance details, and contact numbers of the drivers involved. If the truck driver is part of a company, gather the company’s name, contact information, and any relevant details about their employer. This information can identify all liable parties and pursue compensation.

Medical Attention and Documentation

You will need to seek medical attention immediately after a truck accident, even if you feel fine. Adrenaline can mask pain, and some injuries may not show symptoms right away. For example, internal bleeding, concussions, and whiplash are common injuries that might not present immediate symptoms but can have serious consequences if left untreated. Getting a medical evaluation ensures timely treatment and prevents injuries from worsening.

Keeping detailed medical records serves as evidence in legal proceedings and helps document the extent of your injuries and treatments. They also support your injury claim and demonstrate the seriousness of your condition.

Reporting and Legal Actions

After taking the 5 immediate steps, file a police report and notify your insurance company to start the claims process. Contact a truck accident lawyer from Big River Trial Attorneys to guide you through legal actions and help secure fair compensation for damages.

File a Police Report

Filing a police report after a truck accident serves as immediate documentation of the accident and helps substantiate your claim. When the police arrive, provide them with an accurate account of the accident and request the officer’s name, badge number, and the police report number.

A police report will include details about the accident scene, vehicles involved, and any issued citations, making it a valuable piece of evidence in your case.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Promptly notify your insurance by calling their emergency claims hotline, using their mobile app, or logging into your account on their website. Be prepared to provide details about the accident, including the date, time, location, involved parties’ information, and a description of the incident.

Starting the claims process early has several benefits:

• Ensures compliance with your policy terms
• Helps avoid potential problems down the road
• Allows your insurance company to begin their investigation and support your claim.

Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer

Consulting a truck accident lawyer after your accident will help protect your rights and secure fair compensation after trucking accidents. An experienced personal injury lawyer from Big River Trial Attorneys can guide you through the legal process and help identify all liable parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, and potentially manufacturers or cargo companies.

At Big River Trial Attorneys, we provide comprehensive legal support tailored to your specific situation. Our dedicated team will thoroughly investigate your case, gather evidence, and build a strong claim to support you. We are committed to helping you secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight for your rights.

Handling Insurance Companies

You need to be careful when dealing with insurance companies after a truck accident. When interacting with insurance adjusters, keep your discussions brief and provide only basic information about the accident. Avoid giving recorded statements, as they can be used against you if inconsistencies arise.

Insurance adjusters might act sympathetically, but their goal is to protect their company’s interests. Be cautious and consult with your truck accident lawyer before providing any detailed information.

Understand Your Coverage

Reviewing your insurance policy will help you know the extent of your coverage and potential compensation. This includes knowing what is covered under your policy, such as vehicle repairs, medical expenses, and liability protections.

This enables you to make informed decisions and ensures you receive the compensation you are entitled to for vehicle damage, medical bills, and other related costs.

Protecting Your Claim

Protecting your claim ensures that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages. By safeguarding your claim, you prevent insurance companies and opposing parties from undermining your case with tactics that could reduce or deny your rightful compensation. This includes avoiding social media posts about the accident, following your lawyer’s advice, and meticulously documenting all relevant information. Protecting your claim helps strengthen your position, and ultimately helps achieve a fair and just outcome.

Avoid Social Media Posts

Refrain from posting about the accident or your condition on social media. Even positive updates can be detrimental to your case. Insurance companies and opposing parties may use your posts to undermine your claim.

Social media platforms are often monitored by insurance adjusters looking for any information that could be used against you. A seemingly harmless post about feeling better or resuming normal activities could be misinterpreted and used to question the severity of your injuries. To protect your claim, it’s best to avoid discussing the accident or your recovery online until your case is fully resolved.

Follow Legal Advice

Following your lawyer’s advice is essential to protecting your rights and securing fair compensation. Never accept the first settlement offer without consulting your lawyer. Your truck accident attorney has the experience and knowledge to evaluate the true value of your claim, taking into account all current and future expenses related to the accident. They can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair settlement. Additionally, your lawyer can help advise you on the best course of action throughout the entire process. Trusting their experience and advice can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

How Big River Trial Attorneys Can Help You

Experiencing a truck accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Big River Trial Attorneys are here to provide you with the comprehensive legal support you need. Our dedicated team focuses on truck accident cases and is committed to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

Handling Truck Accident Cases

Our attorneys have extensive experience with truck accident cases. We understand the details involved, from identifying all liable parties to negotiating with insurance companies. This often involves thorough investigations and detailed communications, including emails and correspondence, to ensure all responsible parties are held accountable. We meticulously gather evidence, such as traffic camera footage and witness statements, and use this information to build a strong case. Our strategic approach aims to maximize your compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Whether it’s through direct negotiations or detailed email exchanges, we ensure that every aspect of your case is handled with the utmost care and professionalism.

Compassionate Support – Contact Us

At Big River Trial Attorneys, we prioritize your well-being and offer compassionate support throughout the legal process. We understand that dealing with the aftermath of a truck accident can be incredibly stressful and emotionally draining. Our team is committed to not only providing legal representation but also being a source of emotional support and guidance.

We listen to you. Unlike other lawyers who may not take the time to understand your concerns, we are very communicative with our clients and send regular updates on your case. This ensures that you feel informed and involved every step of the way. Our attentive approach alleviates the stress of legal proceedings so you can focus on your recovery.

Our attorneys take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and tailor our approach to meet your unique needs. We believe that a compassionate, client-centered approach is essential to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.

Don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact Big River Trial Attorneys today for a free consultation. Let us fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. Call us now at 225-725-6000.

Related Blogs:

Common Truck Defects That Cause Accidents

What is a Commercial Vehicle?

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim After a Commercial Vehicle Accident?

Who is Liable After a Commercial Vehicle Accident?

How Long Does a Truck Accident Settlement Take?

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a truck accident claim?

The timeframe to file a truck accident claim, known as the statute of limitations, varies by state. Generally, you have between one to three years from the date of the accident to file a claim. It’s crucial to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you meet all deadlines and preserve your right to compensation.

What should I do if the truck driver denies responsibility for the accident?

If the truck driver denies responsibility, gather as much evidence as possible from the accident scene, including photos, witness statements, and police reports. This evidence can help establish liability and support your claim. A lawyer can assist in investigating the accident further and negotiating with the truck driver’s insurance company.

Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Yes, you can still file a claim even if you were partially at fault for the accident. Many states follow comparative negligence laws, which means your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Consulting with a lawyer can help you understand how your level of fault impacts your claim and what compensation you may still be entitled to.

What types of compensation can I receive after a truck accident?

After a truck accident, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. In some cases, you might also receive compensation for future medical costs and loss of earning capacity. A lawyer can help you identify all potential damages and pursue the full amount of compensation you deserve.

How can I prove the truck driver was negligent?

Proving negligence involves demonstrating that the truck driver breached their duty of care and caused the accident. Evidence such as traffic camera footage, witness statements, and the truck’s black box data can be crucial. Additionally, a lawyer can help gather and analyze this evidence to build a strong case demonstrating the truck driver’s negligence.