If you've been in a trucking accident, you likely need to know what to do next.
You must take proper precautions to avoid liability or unnecessary legal issues. Many people start by contacting a trucking accident lawyer since a qualified attorney can assist you in managing the aftermath of a crash.
Read this guide to learn everything you need to do when you've been involved in a crash.
Although trucking accidents are decreasing across the United States, they are still relatively common. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, there were 45,900 trucking accidents involving injuries in 2020 alone.
For this reason, knowing exactly what to do when you're involved in a truck crash is essential.
You should begin by ensuring that you and your passengers are safe from further harm.
Whether this means moving to the shoulder of a highway or turning your brake lights on to alert other drivers, staying safe is always the first and most crucial step.
Once you are safe from further injury, follow the steps below.
First, you must call the police and emergency medical services if necessary.
Ensure that all parties are safe, off the road, and protected from further harm. Do not move the person if you suspect a spinal or neck injury.
You should avoid touching or moving anything unless they are in a dangerous position.
Avoid admitting fault or accountability until you have the help of a qualified attorney.
Once you have called emergency response services, you can seek additional help from friends, family, a tow truck, or an attorney.
Consider calling your local personal injury lawyer, who can advise you on how to proceed.
If you need transport or towing services, call someone to help you with that.
You can also let your friends and family know that you are safe. Remember not to divulge unnecessary details, as this can compromise your case.
Collective evidence is an essential part of the process. You'll need this evidence if you choose to seek compensation.
For your documentation, consider taking action in the following manner:
As mentioned, you should collect contact information from everyone at the scene, including other drivers involved, medical personnel, police officers, traffic cops, bystanders, witnesses, or healthcare providers.
Ensure that you collect names, phone numbers, addresses, license plates, and any information relevant to the accident.
Ask people to write down what they saw during and after the accident.
Even if you haven't been injured, consider going to the hospital or your local urgent care. You may have non-visible injuries, such as a head injury, internal bleeding, or whiplash. Such damages may seem innocuous initially but can be damaging or even lethal later.
A doctor can also help you document the accident's aftermath in case you need to go to trial.
If you've been in a trucking accident, follow the steps in this guide to ensure your safety and maximize legal outcomes.
Ultimately, you will benefit from working with a qualified legal professional since an attorney can help alleviate the burden of such a situation.
