What to Do After a Truck Accident

Being involved in any type of auto accident is scary and can be an overwhelming experience. Being involved in a truck accident is often even more so due to the catastrophic nature of these accidents. You'll likely be shocked, in pain, and trying to think what to do if you have been personally injured in an accident, which can make the whole situation incredibly overwhelming.

Photo by Zetong Li on Unsplash

The aftermath of a truck accident can be a lot to take in mentally and emotionally. But there are some important things that you can do to protect yourself and others, and be sure that you get the help you need from a serious truck crash lawyer and other authorities. 

What to do After a Truck Accident

When you are involved in an accident, your mind and emotions are in overdrive. Do your best to stay calm, and follow these steps recommended by a Temple truck accident lawyer. 

Stop and Report the Accident

Anyone who is involved in any type of auto accident must legally stop and stay at the scene. Make sure that you and anyone else involved is safe, and if possible, move your vehicle to safety. If there are serious injuries or vehicles that cannot be moved, get who you can to safety. 

Next, report the accident by calling 911. An officer will assess the situation and complete an accident report. If there are injuries, request an ambulance. Be calm and follow the officer’s directions at the scene. 

Exchange Information

Unless there are emergent injuries and you or others are taken to the hospital, it is a good idea to exchange information with other parties involved in the truck accident at the scene. First, identify those directly involved, as well as any witnesses who saw what happened. Next, exchange contact information with these individuals, including: 

• Name, address, phone number, and email address
• Driver’s license information
• Insurance information
• Trucking company information and license number

Document the Accident

Again, if you are able to do so and are not taken to the hospital, do your best to document the accident. Aside from giving information to the police officer, take photos of the scene as best you can. Photograph all vehicles involved, the overall scene, damage to nearby structures, and anything that seems relevant. 

If you have injuries, take photos of those as soon as possible so you can document them and the healing process. You can also use video to record the scene and injuries. Just remember that some people may not want to be videoed. 

Get Medical Attention

After a truck accident, you should get medical attention even if you don’t think you are seriously hurt. Right after an accident, your adrenaline is pumping and can prevent you from feeling the full physical effects of the accident. Many people don’t realize they are injured until hours or even days later. 

If you have significant injuries, you will likely be taken to the hospital by ambulance or an air ambulance service (if available in your area). If not, it is recommended that you go to the emergency room or make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. A medical professional can assess your situation and determine if you have injuries and need care. 

Contact Your Insurance Company

After a truck accident, you need to report the accident to your insurance company. Be polite and honest, but don’t give out too many details. What you say to the insurance company can be used against you if you admit fault or guilt, or make claims that are not easy to prove. 

Yes, you need to cooperate with the insurance company, but that doesn’t mean you have to give a statement or accept the first offer they provide. 

Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accidents are complicated because of the severe nature of the accident, but also because of the parties involved. Often, truck accident cases involve more than just you and the driver. They involve a trucking company, truck owner, parts manufacturer, and other drivers. Because of these factors, it can be difficult to sort through the details and get the compensation that you deserve. 

A truck accident lawyer can advise you of your legal rights and help you sort through insurance claims. They can also make sure that the insurance company does not undervalue your claim or appeal any denials. This is very important when you need to recover from a truck accident.