Things can get extremely chaotic following an accident with another vehicle. In a split second, your life can be significantly affected. There are so many things to consider: the damage to your car, potentially missing work, paying medical bills, and whether or not you have suffered physical injuries. When a big rig or 18-wheeler accident occurs, the chances of serious injury increase. Why is this?
If the average car weighs up to 4000 pounds, imagine how much a basic 18-wheeler must weigh. It’s roughly 80,000 pounds! The brunt of the impact is going to be greater on the smaller, lighter car than on the big rig.
So, what should you do if you are involved in an accident involving one of these behemoths? Here’s some advice.
The Police Must Be Notified
In most states, following an accident involving property damage or personal injury, the police must be called – it’s the law. The crash will be investigated by police officers who will then issue a report to document crucial information like tag numbers, property damage, VIN numbers, insurance, witnesses, involved parties, etc.
If You’re Hurt, Seek Medical Treatment
Severe injuries can be the result of a crash with an 18-wheeler. With any luck, you will be able to simply walk away. However, a high amount of bruising, stiffness, tightness, soreness, etc., may result. You should have a licensed medical professional assess you following a traffic accident. So you can recover as quickly as possible, seek treatment immediately. Doctors’ reports will be crucial if your case goes to court.
Contact the Lawyer Experienced In Trucking/Traffic Accidents
Shortly, we’ll introduce you to the best lawyers to contact if you’re involved in an 18-wheeler accident. In general, however, make sure your legal representative is experienced in truck accidents or, at the very least, traffic accidents.
An experienced lawyer will know how to do the following:
- Pursue any and all damages you’re entitled to
- Download the “black box” data from the 18-wheeler and inspect the vehicle
- Prevent evidence from being spoiled
- Preserve video footage and other relevant forms of evidence
- Talk to witnesses
- Document the scene of the accident
- Get accident reconstruction experts
- Identify applicable insurance policies
- Obtain crash/police reports… and more
Gather as Much Evidence as Possible
Naturally, if you’re injured, you’ll need to get to the hospital. But if possible, try to gather and preserve as much evidence as you can. In cases that end up in court, evidence can be critical. Document the damage to your car with your cell phone as well as taking pictures of the surrounding scene. This includes skid marks, traffic signs, etc. Also, if you can, get pictures of any bruising or physical injuries.
Take note of any traffic cameras that may be situated nearby and any witnesses who may have seen what happened. Get a picture of the vehicle involved in the accident – the 18-wheeler – and note any company logos, etc.
Have You Been Involved in an 18-Wheeler Accident?
If you’ve been in an accident involving an 18-wheeler or some other vehicle, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at Corradino & Papa, LLC. We get justice and fair compensation for those who have been injured. Don’t let the recklessness or negligence of someone else disrupt your life. Count on our team of legal practitioners for help.
Contact us today.