Truck accidents have become very common. Every year about 475,000 big truck accident cases are witnessed. Anyway, you cannot stop being miserable. It doesn’t matter how careful you are while driving; accidents can occur due to the mistake of the other drivers too. The severity of truck accidents continues to rise with the increase in the size of these vehicles. A truck will be more than 40 tons. It can cause severe damage to property and people. Moreover, it can lead to fatal conditions.
This is why knowing what you should do after a truck accident is important. You must take the necessary steps to save money and get your claims. Before consulting a Truck Accident Lawyer, you must take the required action. Below is the seven-step guide to follow.
1. Reporting The Crash
People involved in the accident scene or who witnessed it must stay at the crash point. It’s your responsibility to make sure everyone is safe. It is better to remove your vehicle from the road. Don’t forget to turn on the hazard lights to let other drivers notice you. Call the emergency number if anyone is hurt in the accident.
Immediate action must be taken in case of severe injuries. Even if there is no injury, still inform the state highway patrol or police. The cops will assess the situation and file your accident report. The report will be helpful when you consult a Truck Accident Lawyer to fight for your claims.
2. Identify the Involvement of Other Parties
After the accident, make sure to collect the information from other parties. Also, find the names of witnesses. The Truck Accident Lawyer will ask you for the details of the third parties involved and witnesses during the settlement or trials. It doesn’t matter whether the fault is yours or the truck driver’s; you must gather this information to get the necessary compensation. Actions will be action against the liable parties based on this information.
3. Take Photos
It will be very helpful to take photographs of the accident. It will be a record that you can pass to the Truck Accident Lawyer as evidence. If you are physically able, then do this. Photographs can come in handy to file a lawsuit later. Often people forget to collect the evidence in such tragic incidents. The pictures are proof of how bad the accident was. Before the vehicle is taken to the mechanic, the photos must be taken. Also, take notes on the situation and how the accident happened.
4. Seeking Medical Help
In the worst accident cases, people are severely injured. Some can lead to fatal conditions if immediate medical help is not provided. When the first responders arrive, make sure to seek medical help. The treatment should be the first priority at the time. If you don’t get attention from the crash, immediately call for emergency medical help.
If you are capable, you can directly see a doctor for help. Remember, you cannot seek compensation for injuries without any treatment proof or report. The Truck Accident Lawyer will ask you for the reports later. So, whether the injury is severe or not, seek medical treatment.
Make sure to keep the receipts and follow-up advice. This will help to cover the bills under the insurance coverage. If you have gaps in your treatment, the insurance service provider may not cover the bills.
5. Exchange Information
Don’t forget to exchange information with the other parties at the accident scene. Ensure to find the truck’s name, number, and other details. Later, find out the driver’s name and the trucking company. If it is a commercial truck, you must collect the information of the company and its insurance provider.
6. Speak Carefully with the Insurance Agent
Insurance agents will always try to cut down the coverage to give the least compensation. After the truck accident, an insurance agent will contact you. It is important to communicate with them carefully, or else they can hold your words against you.
Don’t admit it in front of the agent, even if it is your fault. The responding officer will file who is at fault. The agent will try every possible way to cut the coverage. Therefore, it is better to hire a Truck Accident Lawyer. The lawyer will handle the discussion and make things proceed in your favor.
7. Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer
The most important step is to hire a professional truck accident attorney. An experienced attorney will help you to bring the case in your favor. They will understand the complexity of the case and will try their best to proceed with your claims. The lawyer will ensure that all your damages and medical expenses will get covered. Your case can be settled easily with the help of a professional.
These are the seven major steps you must follow if you face a truck accident case in the future. Even if you witness a case, help the victim to overcome the situation with these steps. Moreover, don’t forget to immediately consult a professional lawyer to make your claims successful.
Greg Baumgartner handles truck accident lawsuits for victims of truck accidents in Texas. He is an expert Texas Truck Accident Lawyer with an exemplary track record.
