What to Do If You’ve Been in a Semi Truck Crash

Being in an accident involving a commercial truck can be an incredibly traumatic experience. You may be left feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about the next steps to take. Knowing what to do after a semi-truck accident is key to ensuring that you get the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Here are five important steps to take if you’ve been in an accident with a semi-truck. 

Get Medical Attention First and Foremost

The most important step after any vehicle accident is seeking medical attention for your injuries. Your health should always come first, even if it means arriving late at the scene or leaving before the police arrive. Even if you don’t think your injuries are severe enough to warrant medical attention, it’s still important that you follow up with a doctor as soon as possible to check for any underlying issues caused by the crash. This will also help establish your claim with your insurance company later on down the line. 

Dealing With the Scene

After getting medical attention, it’s time to deal with the scene of the crash itself. If you feel safe enough, make sure all of your personal information (license, registration, proof of insurance) is exchanged with the other driver(s). Make sure to document everything. Take photos of damage done to both vehicles, exchange contact information, write down names, license plate numbers, note time and location of the crash, and record any witness testimonies if available. All of this evidence will prove invaluable when filing your claim later on down the line. 

Exchanging Info With The Other Driver

When exchanging information with other drivers involved in the accident, it’s important not to admit fault or sign any documents without consulting with an attorney first. If there were witnesses present at the scene who can attest that you were not at fault for causing the accident, then their testimonies can also be used as evidence when filing a claim against either driver or their respective insurers. Make sure to exchange contact information with these witnesses, so they can provide statements if necessary. 

Talk To An Accident Lawyer

Finally, talk with an accident lawyer before talking to anyone else about your case (including either driver’s insurer). An experienced attorney can evaluate what kind of legal recourse is available, depending on state law.  They can advise whether filing a lawsuit is necessary in order for you to receive compensation for damages incurred due to negligence from either party involved in the crash. 

Being in an accident involving a commercial truck can be intimidating, but understanding what steps should be taken immediately afterward can help protect you legally while giving yourself peace of mind. Obtaining medical attention, documenting evidence at the scene of crash, exchanging info safely, and speaking only with an attorney before discussing claim details are all vital steps that should be taken post-accident involving commercial trucks. Taking these steps following a semi-truck crash will help ensure that justice is served correctly and victims receive full financial restitution for damages incurred. Contact the attorneys at Brassfield & Krueger, Ltd. for a consultation involving your truck accident.