In the U.S., there are over 160,000 truck accidents every year 32% of which involve an injury. This harrowing statistic shows us how important it is to know how to act in times of crisis.
Although it’s overwhelming, motorists must know the top three steps to protect themselves and their case in court. But with so much legal jargon out there, figuring out the right course of action seems impossible.
Sounds like your situation? Luckily, you’ve come to the right place. Here are three things to do after a semi-truck accident.
-
Check for Injuries
The first thing to do after a semi-truck wreck is to check for injuries. In serious cases, call emergency services, so they can help the victims immediately. If you have minor injuries, it’s still important to seek medical care because certain ailments manifest days later, such as whiplash.
At the same time, call authorities, and they’ll create a police report. This will include valuable details of what happened, who was present, and whether anyone violated the law.
-
Document Everything
Although you’ll have a police report, make sure you document everything after you’re in an accident. Ideally, you should take photos and videos of the accident because they will serve as evidence. For instance, shoot images of your damaged truck to help with an insurance claim.
You should also collect testimonies from everyone involved. This should include the commercial trucker, anyone who has suffered injuries, and potential witnesses. It’s crucial to collect everyone’s contact details, so it’s easier to report the accident.
Regardless of who caused the incident, never admit fault or apologize for it. If you do, there’s a risk that the other party will use it against you in court.
It’s wise to also journal your experiences throughout the process. You should document any medical procedures you’ve needed, both physical and mental. Written evidence could make a big difference in winning the case.
-
Seek Legal Action
Hiring a lawyer is a crucial step after a semi-truck accident.
Because every incident is different, you can’t take a cookie-cutter approach when dealing with your case. But when you’re hiring an attorney, they’ll have the relevant experience to fight your corner. Semi-truck accidents are complex because multiple parties, including the trucker’s employer, are usually involved.
If you’re unsure where to find a reputable lawyer, start by conducting an online search and include your area. For instance, you should search “lawyer for truck accidents in Kansas City” and check out the top hits. Pro tip: contact the top three results because these lawyers have clearly made their clients happy, which proves their credibility.
What to Do After a Semi-Truck Accident
After a semi-truck accident, it’s time to get things in motion.
Make sure that everyone moves to a safe position and has their injuries treated. It’s also essential to gather sufficient evidence and contact a reputable lawyer in your area to work on your case. Good luck!
Enjoyed this article? If yes, then check out the rest of our blog for more great content.
Copyright © 2023 California Business Journal. All Rights Reserved.
Related Posts
