Truck accidents leave behind devastating effects as the impact of a head-on collision is met with a significant amount of pressure and force. The aftermath of a truck accident is disheartening as it may include severe injuries, damages, and even loss of life.
When involved in a heavy vehicle accident, there usually are many emotions running, confusion, and even disbelief. Often, you may not know where to turn and how to deal with such a situation. If you are in such a situation, worry no more. In this article we shall be looking at the most crucial steps to take after a truck accident.
What to Do After a Truck Accident
1. Call the Relevant Authorities (911)
After a truck accident, it is wise to contact the police immediately, they will send an ambulance your way while they are trying to get to the accident scene. Due to the nature of the trucks, an accident is likely to leave one with severe injuries. Contacting the police is vital as they will take down an accident report, which will be used as evidence in court later on.
2. Write Down the Contact Information
If you’re not too hurt to move, exchange information with the other drivers, such as their contact information, address, type of truck, insurance cover, their plate and truck number, and even their area of residence. You can also write down the contact information of a few bystanders that will act as your witness during your court trial.
You can still take pictures of the accident as part of your evidence. Take photos of the damaged car and also any cuts and bruises on your body.
3. Contact a Truck Accident Attorney as Soon as Possible
Truck accidents are very complex and would require experienced lawyers to help you with the case. Contact an experienced truck accident attorney to litigate on your behalf with the insurance company to get compensated fully and timely. Still, if there is no coming to an understanding, your lawyer will take the matter to court.
Attorneys are a great help, as they will ease your process as you try to heal and recover from your injuries by taking over your case. It is a complex gathering and preserving all our evidence for your case and still be healing at the same time. Attorneys understand what the impact of an accident is and how it is draining both mentally and financially. Let them do the heavy lifting; it will give your case more moxie in the courts as well.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
Immediately after your accident, many insurance companies state that they should be notified as soon as possible to examine the accident and determine what party is responsible. Failure to report to an insurance company may result in one being denied compensation, as there is no proof of the accident. Informing them in advance is also appropriate as they will start with the paperwork of compensating them as soon as possible.
5. Avoid Discussing Your Accident
These days’ social media has been used to expose one’s entire life, which is okay depending on a person. However, it is wise to keep off social media when it comes to an accident, especially when your case is still under review. Anything you say or post on social media may be used against you in a court of law by the other party’s attorney to ensure your case is dismissed or you receive less compensation than you deserve. It’s also important not to discuss your accident with anyone apart from your lawyer.
6. Do Not Admit Liability
Even if, for a fact, you know you are responsible for the accident, do not accept your fault and only discuss these facts with your attorney. This doesn’t mean you lie, as lying will influence your credibility. Your attorney has to highlight the evidence and decide whether you are guilty.
Choose the Right Attorney
Ask around before settling with just any lawyer. You want a lawyer that will understand you and will keep you informed about your case. Go for a truck accident attorney, not a general lawyer, as truck accident attorneys have experience handling such cases; therefore, there is a higher chance of winning.
