At Sticklen and Dreyer, we understand what you are going through after a trucking accident, so we’ve prepared a step-by-step guide. In several cases, victims have sustained severe injuries and are unable to follow any steps outside of receiving emergency medical care. This leaves it up to families and friends to follow these steps.
Call 9-1-1
The first thing to do in any severe automobile collision is to call 9-1-1. The call will immediately dispatch law enforcement and emergency medical staff to the scene to provide medical assistance, this will also initiate an important investigation into the crash.
Seek Medical Attention
Your life and the lives of your passengers are the most important thing, and getting immediate medical assistance is the first priority. Medical attention right after an injury can mean the difference between life and death. Even if you do not think your injuries are very severe, you should get checked out by a medical professional in case of trauma and internal damage.
Exchange Information with the Other Parties Involved
All physically able people must exchange personal and insurance information with anyone else involved at the scene. Once someone leaves the scene of an accident, it can be difficult to locate them and follow the proper legal procedures. You should collect, if possible:
- The driver’s personal information
- Insurance information
- The license plate, model, and description of the truck
- Information on the trucker’s employer
Document the Scene of the Accident
Write down and take photos of:
- The locations and conditions after the accident
- Any damage to your vehicle
- Damage to the other vehicles
- Your injuries and the injuries of any passengers
- Any surrounding factors that may have contributed, such as construction debris or poor road conditions.
This documentation can be vital information and evidence for your insurance claim or lawsuit.
Speak to Your Local Police Force
When the police arrive, you will have to speak to them and give information about the accident. You must only give facts – never give your opinion or admit fault for the accident. You are likely in shock, and you may not have all the information, so don’t say anything that can incriminate yourself.
Report the Accident to Your Insurance Provider
You are legally required to inform your insurance provider of the accident, but give them limited and factual data. They are going to do everything they can to limit or reduce the compensation you are given. Your best option is to allow a truck accident attorney to talk for you, so they can protect your rights.
Speak to an Attorney
Trucking accidents can be complicated and involve several parties, any of whom may be liable for your injuries. If you have suffered a severe injury in a trucking accident, hiring a knowledgeable attorney will significantly increase your chances of recovering compensation for your injuries and making the best of a terrible situation.
If you find yourself in a trucking accident, Contact Sticklen and Dreyer, the best tractor trailer and 18 wheeler attorneys.