Getting into a vehicle accident with a truck/semi-truck can be an extremely traumatic and dangerous experience. It is essential to know what to do in the aftermath of the accident to protect yourself and your legal rights. Keep reading to find out more about the steps you need to take after an accident with a truck/semi-truck, and how a truck accident lawyer can help.
Seek Medical Attention
The first thing that you need to do after an accident with a truck/semi-truck is to seek medical attention. Even if you believe that you have gotten lucky and do not feel any pain and discomfort, getting yourself checked out by a medical professional is crucial. This is because some injuries might not show immediate symptoms, and it’s crucial to document any injuries that you might have sustained in the accident. Even if you have gotten away unscathed, or only have minor injuries, getting medical attention right away will help you in the event that you file a claim or lawsuit.
Contact the Police
The next step is to contact the police. Even if the accident was not very serious, it’s important to ensure that there is a police report to document the incident. This report can be used as evidence if you need to file a claim or lawsuit in the future. Once the police arrive on the scene, be sure to give them a complete and accurate account of what happened. Do not admit fault or blame anybody else for the accident; simply state the facts as best as you remember them.
Collect Information
If you are able to do so after an accident with an 18-wheeler, it’s important to collect information from the driver and any witnesses on the scene. Try to get as much information as possible including the driver’s name, contact information, company, insurance information, and the license plate number of the truck. If there are any witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information as well, if possible. This information can be crucial in the future if you file a claim that goes to court.
Take Photos
It’s a good idea to take as many photos of the accident scene as you can. Be sure to get photographs of any damage to your vehicle and any injuries that have been sustained by yourself or your passengers. Take photos of the truck involved in the accident and any other property damage that may have occurred. You should also take photos of the accident location and any other important signs such as skid marks on the road. Keep these photos safe, as they can be used as evidence in a future lawsuit.
Contact a Vehicle Accident Lawyer
After an accident with an 18-wheeler, it’s a good idea to get legal advice as soon as possible. A car accident injury lawyer can help you understand your options and legal rights, while supporting you to navigate the complex process of filing a lawsuit or claim. The best car accident attorneys will also help you deal with insurance companies and negotiate a fair settlement, even if the claim does not end up going to court. Working with a good automobile accident lawyer with experience in truck accidents is crucial after an 18-wheeler accident, as liability in these cases is not always straightforward. They can help determine if it is the fault of the truck driver, their employer, the truck manufacturer, or a combination of all of these parties, to help you get the maximum compensation.
Don’t Speak to Insurance Adjusters
One of the biggest mistakes that people make after being involved in a truck accident is speaking to insurance adjusters without consulting with a vehicle accident lawyer beforehand. Insurance adjusters are trained to get you to say things that might hurt your case and minimize the expense to the insurance company. If an insurance adjuster contacts you, simply tell them that you are in the process of hiring a lawyer, and you will have your road accident lawyer contact them.
Don’t Sign Anything
Similarly, you should never sign anything without first consulting with a road accident attorney. Insurance companies may attempt to get you to sign a release or settlement agreement that waives your right to sue or limits your ability to recover damages. Before you sign anything be sure to consult with a vehicle accident lawyer who can go over the documents provided and give expert advice.
Keep Track of Your Expenses
After being involved in an 18-wheeler accident, it’s essential to keep track of your expenses. This includes medical bills, repairs to your vehicle, and any other expenses that are related to the accident. By keeping track of your expenses, you can determine how much compensation you may be entitled to, which can help your vehicle accident lawyer negotiate a fair settlement.
Follow Your Doctor’s Advice
If you were injured in the accident, it’s crucial to follow any orders or advice given by your doctor. If you don’t, insurance companies might use this information during your lawsuit or claim to suggest that your injuries were not as bad as you say they are, which could impact the compensation you are entitled to. Whether it involves taking medication, attending physical therapy, or following other treatment plans, it’s essential to do as your doctor requests – not only to improve your chance of compensation, but also for your own healing.
Finding the Right Vehicle Accident Lawyer
It’s important to work with a lawyer who specializes in truck accidents, as they have the experience and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of these types of cases. It’s important that your lawyer has a track record of success in similar cases, and who you feel comfortable working with. Don’t forget that your lawyer will be your advocate throughout the legal process, so it’s essential to choose somebody who you trust and who communicates well with you. Find out more about their availability and the frequency of communication you can expect.
If you’ve been involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler, contact our legal team at What’s My Case Worth today.
