Being involved in an accident is a risk that every driver takes. No matter how careful you, there is still a chance of such an incident occurring. Being involved in a truck accident can be a scary and traumatic event. And in situations like these, it is hard to even remain calm and let alone think clearly. (Image Credit: Denise McQuillen/Pixabay)
Therefore, being prepared and having a step-by-step system to follow in case an accident happens is essential for you to make the aftermath go a lot smoother. With cases of incidents involving trucks on the rise, here are 6 steps to take after a truck accident.
1. Seek Medical Assistance
Your main concern after any kind of accident should be your own health. But in a truck accident involving other people, take a look at others’ conditions if you can. No matter whether there are obvious injuries, you should still consider calling for emergency medical assistance immediately. Once the emergency workers get to the scene, request a medical evaluation, because even if you do not notice any significant wounds, there might still be some invisible issues like whiplash. Contacting medical service as soon as possible will take care of any physical injuries. In addition, they will provide you with a medical report for any court case which comes later.
2. Contact an Accident Attorney
A reliable accident attorney should be the second person you contact after the medical professionals. The experts at HugheyLawFirm.com explain that your attorneys will take care of everything; from speaking to your insurance company to deal with your compensation claims. Do not give any statements or agree to anything without consulting with your lawyers first. Remember that insurance companies are looking to make money, not make friends, or help you out.
An experienced accident lawyer will help you file your insurance claim and get the maximum amount of compensation that you deserve. Moreover, if you decide to file any lawsuits, they can navigate the confusing and complex legal process. They will also litigate your case if it goes to trial.
3. Do Not Apologize or Admit Fault
Being polite and helpful is good in a stressful situation; however, there is a big difference between being comforting others and actually admitting fault. Being apologetic at the scene of a truck accident gives the other driver the grounds to hold you responsible, even when you’re not. Any apology can be viewed as an acknowledgment of guilt. This will be used against you if you are not careful. Even if you are unsure about who should be responsible for the collision, try to stay calm. Keep a neutral attitude on the matter. Simply speak to your attorney and let them deal with it.
4. Record the Other Driver’s Information
Do not forget that there are other people also involved in the accident. While you might not want to meet them again (certainly not in another accident), it is essential for you to collect their contact information for future use. This includes phone numbers, addresses, insurance information. Pay attention to the details to see whether they are commercial drivers, and take note of their trucking company’s name if that is the case.
5. Identify Witnesses
Bystanders who witnessed the accident can be useful allies in any legal proceedings that come as a result of an accident. Speak to anyone who saw what happened and get their contact details. If the police arrive at the scene, they will interview witnesses themselves. But if the police don’t come, you can give the contact details to your attorneys who will be able to contact them directly. A witness statement is powerful evidence in court and can be the deciding factor in a case involving a truck accident.
6. Gather Evidence at the Scene
This is something that your attorneys can do later, but if you are able to move around, try to gather as much evidence as possible from the scene of the accident; from license plates and the type of truck to the signs of damage to your vehicle. Give all of this to your attorney as they will be able to use it in your case and secure the compensation that you deserve for your injuries and damage to your vehicle. Photographs and witness statements in particular will help your lawyer in proving liability and negligence in the aftermath of the accident.
Unfortunately, truck accidents can never be eradicated entirely, but for those who have the bad luck of being involved in one, it is important to remember that one misguided statement or action can lead to serious consequences. The moments after a truck accident are critical – and by following these steps, you are guaranteed to have an advantage in ensuring all the rights and compensations that you deserve.