If you were involved in an accident with a semi or a commercial truck, there are a number of things that you should do. Truck accident lawyers have compiled a trucking accident checklist for your consideration. Listed below are some of the more important tasks that you should undertake in the event that you have been involved in a heavy truck accident.
If you and your passengers can safely exit your vehicle do so as quickly as possible. In a crash this always a chance of fire so turning off your ignition and leaving your vehicle could be very important.
If possible, move to a safe location. Away from the traffic lanes in the event additional vehicles are further involved in the collision.
If no one has done so already, call 911 to report the accident. This is extremely important if there are personal injuries. This will ensure that medical attention arrives at the scene as quickly as possible.
Do not leave the accident scene until the police arrive and tell you that it is okay for you to leave.
Gather as much information from the other parties involved as possible. Names, addresses, telephone numbers and insurance information will be helpful later on.
If you or your passengers have a cell phone with picture taking capabilities use it to document as much of the scene as possible. Take pictures of a particular damage to both yours and other vehicles. Pictures of injuries could also be useful. At your earliest opportunity download and store this documentation at a stable and safe location for further use if required.
See to it that you or anyone else involved receives adequate medical attention. Even if you initially did not think you are hurt, being examined by a qualified physician is important. The increased adrenaline levels resulting from the accident itself will sometimes mask pain. Also, some types of injuries take a while to evidence themselves.
It is important that you do not make any statements at the accident scene. It is way too early in the process to determine who was at fault so therefore do not make admissions of fault. Do not say “I didn’t see you, you were in my blind spot”, “my insurance will take care of it” or even “I’m sorry” or any other similar statement. These could be considered as admissions of guilt.
Even if you had received medical attention at the accident scene, follow up with a doctor’s visit.
Notify your insurance carrier that you have had an accident and give them any details you have collected.
As soon as practical contact a truck accident attorney. If you or someone in your vehicle was seriously injured it is critical to have your accident attorney begin the process of investigating and collecting evidence. It is important that this crucial data not be lost due to a time lapse.
Remember, the above are only guidelines. A seasoned lawyer knows the in’s and out’s of litigating cases just like yours. They know the right questions to ask the right places to looks for clues and evidence. Their experience is essential to the successful resolution of your case.
If you have been involved in a collision with a heavy truck, don’t delay – contact an attorney for help today. Our lawyers have the years of experience litigating cases just like yours. Call today!