A semi-truck accident can be a traumatic experience for everyone involved.
The size and weight of semi-trucks make them particularly devastating. Plus, the aftermath of trucking accidents can be particularly complex due to the number of parties involved, including the driver, the trucking company, and the truck manufacturer.
If you are involved in a semi-truck accident, it is important to know what to do to protect your safety at the scene and your legal rights in the aftermath of the crash.
Here are 10 steps to take after a semi-truck accident and 3 tips for avoiding them altogether:
Check for Injuries
The first thing to do after getting into an accident with a semi-truck is to check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if you do not think you are injured, it is still a good idea to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and it is better to be safe than sorry.
Move to a Safe Area
If you are not facing serious injuries and are able to move your vehicle, move it to a safe area away from traffic. This will help prevent further accidents and ensure your own safety. If you are unable to move your vehicle, turn on your hazard lights to increase your visibility to oncoming traffic.
Call the Police
Report the accident. Even if there are no injuries, it is important to file a police report. It is the best way to ensure that an accurate account of the accident has been taken. The report can also provide valuable information for insurance purposes and legal proceedings that may follow.
Gather Information
While waiting for the police to arrive at the scene, you should collect information from the other driver. Be sure to get their name, contact information, license plate number, insurance information, and the name of their employer. If there are any witnesses to the accident, collect their contact information as well.
Take Photos
Evidence of the accident scene, including damage to your vehicle, damage to the other vehicle, visible injuries, and any other relevant details, will be essential when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.
Do Not Admit Fault
You should not apologize for the accident, even if you think you may have been at fault. Admitting fault can be used against you in legal proceedings.
File an Insurance Claim
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible and report the accident. Provide them with all the information you have gathered, including the police report and photos.
Seek Legal Help
If you have been injured in a semi-truck accident, it is important to seek legal help. Experienced personal injury attorneys can help you navigate any insurance challenges and legal processes, and ensure your rights are protected.
Do Not Sign Anything
Do not sign anything or agree to any settlement offers from the other driver or their insurance company without consulting an attorney. The other party may try to get you to settle for less than you deserve, and signing anything could waive your right to pursue further legal action.
Keep Records
Keep detailed records of all medical treatment and expenses related to the accident. This can include medical bills, prescription receipts, and receipts for any other expenses related to your injuries that may be reimbursable in a settlement.
These 10 important steps secure your physical safety and your legal protection. In addition to these steps, there are a few steps you can take to prevent semi-truck accidents altogether:
Avoid Blind Spots
Semi-trucks have large blind spots, especially on the sides and rear of the vehicle. If possible, stay out of these blind spots to avoid a collision.
Give Trucks Space
Semi-trucks need a lot of space to make lane changes, turns, etc. Giving semi-trucks plenty of space on the road is a simple way to ensure your safety.
Stay Alert
Stay alert and focused while driving. Avoiding distractions like texting or talking on the phone is especially important when on the road with large trucks. Staying focused is the best way to ensure you’re out of the truck’s way and visible to them and other drivers.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a trucking accident, call the Law Brothers at (800) 222-2222 as soon as possible for a free case evaluation.