Your actions following a serious truck accident can mean the difference between being taken advantage of and receiving the compensation you deserve
The moments right after a truck accident can be frightening and very confusing. The combination of adrenaline, shock, and fear is very overwhelming. However, it is vital to be prepared, know your rights, and understand how to respond if this ever happens to you. Your actions following a serious truck accident can mean the difference between being taken advantage of and receiving the compensation you deserve. Here are the important steps to take immediately following a truck accident.
Call the Police
The first thing you should do if you are in a truck accident is contacting the police. The police can file an official report on the details leading up to the accident. Having a report on file will help you if you decide to seek legal action later. Even if no one is injured, you should still call the police. This allows the police to investigate, interview witnesses, and complete an accident reconstruction.
Seek Medical Treatment
Truck accidents can cause severe and sometimes permanent injuries. For this reason, it is crucial to get checked out by a doctor or emergency personnel immediately after the accident. There are many minor injuries, such as soft tissue injuries, that are not always immediately noticeable. For instance, you may have strained a muscle upon impact, but you might not notice the effects until the next day. Inflammation and swelling can take hours to develop, especially if you are still using that part of your body unknowingly. Getting an official medical report will also aid in reporting your injuries to your insurance company and ensuring you get the compensation you deserve.
Exchange Information
Like in any vehicle accident, you must take down all information relevant to the collision. This includes information such as:
- The driver’s name
- Their address
- Contact information, including phone and email
- The license plate on the truck
- Driver’s license number
- The truck driver’s employer and the owner of the truck
- The trucker’s insurance carrier and their policy number
It would help if you also took photos of the accident scene, including the damage to all vehicles, personal injuries, and any debris in the road.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Before accepting an offer, always reach out to an experienced personal injury lawyer. They will have the resources and knowledge necessary to help you handle the litigation process. A personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and effectively represent you. They are aware of the laws and regulations surrounding the trucking industry and common causes of trucking accidents.
Contact The Snyder Law Group Today
The Snyder Law Group, LLC, proudly represents clients throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. Our experienced Baltimore attorneys understand the frustration that comes with an insurance company, medical professional, or other party that refuses to accept liability for negligent or reckless behavior. You can take heart in knowing there are talented and experienced lawyers ready to work for you. We are experienced in handling personal injury claims of medical malpractice or injury resulting from serious car and truck accidents, and have secured hundreds of millions in verdicts and settlements. Please visit our website, www.410thefirm.com, or call us at 410-843-3476, for more information. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.