Each year, there are between 140,000 and 165,000 accidents involving semi-trucks. Being involved in an accident with a truck can be overwhelming. Once the initial shock of the accident, there are several important steps to you should take to ensure your safety, protect your rights, and set the stage for potential legal action if necessary. Below are some key steps to take and issues to consider if you’re in an accident with a truck.
Prioritize safety
Check for injuries: Make sure everyone involved in the accident is okay. Call 911 immediately if there are injuries.
Move to safety: If it’s safe to do so and you’re not seriously injured, move your vehicle out of traffic to avoid further accidents. If you cannot move your vehicle, stay inside and turn on hazard lights.
Stay calm: Accidents can be stressful, but it’s important to stay calm to ensure you can think clearly and act appropriately.
Report the accident: Even if the accident seems minor, it’s crucial to report it to the police. An official report can serve as an important document in your case.
File a police report: The police will create an accident report that may include details on how the accident occurred and who is at fault.
Gather as much evidence as possible at the time of the accident
Take photos: Photos of an accident are essential evidence to determine what caused the accident. Use your phone or camera to take pictures of the scene, including vehicle damage, the truck, skid marks, traffic signs, and the surrounding area. Document any visible injuries.
Get information: Exchange names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance details with the truck driver and any other parties involved in the accident. Also, get the truck’s license plate number, and note the truck’s carrier or company information if available.
Witnesses: If there are any witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information. Their testimony could be valuable in determining fault.
Do not admit fault for the accident
Be cautious with statements: Avoid admitting fault, even if you feel partially responsible. Truck accidents are often complex, and there may be other factors (such as driver fatigue, truck maintenance, or other external causes) that contributed to the accident.
Don’t speculate: Stick to the facts when discussing the accident with the police, other drivers, or insurance companies. Avoid guessing about the cause of the accident or making statements that could be interpreted as an admission of guilt.
Seek medical attention if necessary
Get checked out: Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, see a doctor immediately after the accident. Some injuries (like whiplash or internal injuries) may not show symptoms right away.
Follow medical advice: Keep a record of any treatments, doctor visits, or prescriptions related to the accident.
Consider consulting a truck accident lawyer
Legal guidance: Truck accidents can involve complex legal issues, such as proving liability, dealing with large insurance companies, or pursuing claims against multiple parties. A truck accident attorney, a Green Bay Truck Accident Attorney, can help guide you through the process and ensure you are fairly compensated.
Contingency fees: Many truck accident lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win the case. This makes it easier to get legal representation without upfront costs.
Document the expenses related to the accident
Medical bills: Keep all documentation related to medical treatments, bills, prescriptions, or therapies.
Vehicle repair bills: Keep copies of repair estimates or invoices for vehicle damage.
Lost wages: If you are unable to work due to your injuries, keep a record of missed work and lost income.
Report the accident to your insurance
Inform your insurer: Notify your own insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Be truthful but avoid going into too much detail until you’ve had time to fully assess the situation.
Avoid talking to the truck’s insurance: Do not speak directly with the trucking company’s or driver’s insurance adjuster without consulting a lawyer. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts and may ask you to make statements that could hurt your case.
Understand that truck accidents are complex
Multiple parties: Truck accidents often involve more than one party. In addition to the truck driver, the trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, or maintenance providers may be at fault.
Regulations and safety violations: Truck drivers are subject to federal and state regulations, such as hours-of-service rules and maintenance requirements. Violations of these regulations may contribute to the accident.
Commercial insurance: Trucking companies typically have large insurance policies, which can make claims more complicated. The company may fight to minimize their liability.
Know your rights
Statute of limitations: In most states, you have a limited amount of time to file a personal injury claim after an accident. Make sure you know the statute of limitations for filing a claim in your state.
Insurance coverage: Understand the coverage available through your own insurance policy, and make sure you are aware of any options for pursuing claims against the truck driver or their employer.
Conclusion
Accidents involving trucks can be more complicated than standard car accidents, so it’s important to take immediate steps to protect yourself legally and financially. From securing evidence to seeking medical care, and considering professional legal help, these actions will help you navigate the situation and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.
