Do you know what to do if you’re ever in a truck accident?
No matter how safely we drive, accidents can happen.
Whether they are caused by poor driving, weather conditions or anything else, knowing how to deal with a truck accident is vital.
But if you’ve never been in one before, you may not know what to do.
Don’t worry, we’re here to help! Read on for our step-by-step guide for what to do after a truck accident.
Remain at the Accident Scene
Unless medical personnel take you to hospital, remain at the scene of the truck accident.
If you leave before law enforcement gets there, you could get charged for leaving the scene of an accident.
It’s a criminal offense.
Even if it’s a minor crash, stay at the scene.
But make sure that you yourself move out of the way to safety from any oncoming traffic.
Check For Injuries
After a crash, injuries might not immediately be present.
Where possible, check for any injuries you might have.
You might need medical attention straight away as a priority.
Also, remember that the other parties involved in the crash may have injuries as well.
If you have no injuries or very minor ones, make sure the other parties get medical help if they need it.
Call Law Enforcement
Even if you call 911 for an ambulance, police will attend the scene.
If you didn’t have any injuries, you still need to call 911 to report the accident.
This is regardless of who you think is at fault.
Accidents involving trucks and large vehicles are more complex.
A police report will help your attorney work out who is liable.
It will help you seek financial damages if you’re owed any.
Gather Information From All Parties
All drivers have to exchange information after a crash. This also applies to truck accidents. Get and give the following:
- Driver’s name
- Phone number and address
- Driver’s truck carrier
- License plate
- Insurance company name and policy number
You can either write it down, you take pictures of the information you need.
Collect Evidence at the Scene
If you’re able, start to collect evidence from the scene. You can take notes, photos, and videos on your phone.
You can also start speaking to witnesses, but don’t ever admit fault.
A witness might have seen the other driver on the phone, or a stoplight malfunction.
You should gather:
- Photos/videos of the scene, skid marks, debris, vehicle damage
- Pictures of injuries
- Pictures/video of property damage
- Witness testimonies and contact details
Don’t touch any physical evidence at the scene unless law enforcement says you can.
They will be looking into liability and will use it to determine vehicle speed and what happened in the run-up.
Take Your Case to an Attorney
If there is an injury or damage to another person’s property, you need legal representation from an experienced truck accident attorney who knows these cases.
They’ll know how to handle the big insurers too.
These insurers often throw money into protecting their clients.
With the potential for million-dollar settlements on the line, let the experts handle it.
What to Do in a Truck Accident Made Easy
So there you have it. If you’re ever in a truck accident, you know the steps you need to take.
Stay safe, tend to your injuries but don’t leave the scene unless you’re taken to hospital.
Gather statements and evidence if you can and make sure to exchange information.
And make sure you report it.
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