Trucks are large vehicles that are extremely heavy especially when at full load. As they are heavy, this means that when they get into accidents, the damage sustained and inflicted on other vehicles around them are usually more severe. Truck accidents are different from your regular collisions- not only are the drivers held responsible, but the trucking company will be as well. Regardless of the vehicle they drive, there are certain things drivers need to do in order to ensure they get the compensation they deserve. Here’s what truckers should do after a truck accident in order to ensure their case and rights are protected.
Stay There and Call 911
The first thing you need to do is remain calm. The more composed you are, the more appropriate your reaction to the accident will be. Check for any injuries on yourself, your passengers and the persons in the other vehicles. If there are any injured parties, call 911 immediately. An ambulance will be dispatched to handle the medical emergencies and the police will come to record statements from all of you. It is important that the authorities get information on the incident promptly. Regardless of whether there are any injured persons, stay at the scene. Leaving may result in criminal charges if any of the involved parties are later found to have sustained forms of injuries.
Seek Medical Attention
Get medical treatment whether or not you have been injured. Whilst most injuries surface immediately, some pain and injuries are only noticeable after some time and will require treatment then. Visiting a doctor quickly will be beneficial in filing your claim. The doctor can evaluate the cause of the injuries. Having your injuries documented that they happened during the collision will be helpful in seeking compensation.
Record Evidence
To help your claim process go smoother, collate as much evidence as possible. Certain states can hold more than one party liable for a crash, so it is vital you do so. If you have no injuries or your injuries are not too serious, collect witness statements from people around the scene and get their contact details. You should also take photos of your car and the other vehicles involved. Make sure to get photos and video footage of the scene taken by other people.
Mind Your Words and Actions
Your reaction after the accident matters. Getting involved in a crash is frustrating, but do not be hostile or angry to anyone there. You should never admit fault as you never know if you were really responsible for the crash till all the evidence determines so. Also, although it might be tempting to share your misfortunate encounter on social media, do not speak of the case on social media. Any messages, photos and videos you share may be detrimental to your case.
Get A Laywer
Truck accidents have more complicated liability matters than car accidents, so handling the case well requires specialized knowledge. A truck accident attorney has the necessary experience to deal with truck accidents and the related claims.