Due to the massive weight and size of semi-trucks, accidents involving a large truck often cause more severe injuries and damage than accidents with two cars. However, the challenges don’t end at the crash site. Trucking companies and insurers know claims usually involve higher medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, so they often fight hard to reduce or deny payouts for claims. That’s why knowing what to do after a truck accident matters. Taking the proper steps is essential for your health, safety, and any potential legal claim to recover compensation.
If you were injured in a tractor-trailer accident and need guidance, contact Cardoso Law, PLLC, today. Our experienced Pensacola truck accident attorney can help you through the legal process and work to get your life back on track post-accident. Reach out to us to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and case review.
What to Do if You Are in a Truck Accident
Knowing what to do after a semi-truck accident not only helps protect your physical well-being. It can also help protect your rights and improve your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.
After a truck accident, you should do the following:
- Remain Calm – While it’s easier said than done, try to keep a cool head. Take slow, deep breaths to help you focus. Staying calm will help you recall details more clearly and take the right immediate actions.
- Call 911 – Contact emergency services as soon as you can. They will send law enforcement to investigate the accident and emergency medical professionals to get you medical help.
- Exchange Information with the Truck Driver – Get the driver’s name, contact details, employer details, and insurance information. If possible, take note of the truck’s license plate.
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, get checked out by a doctor. Adrenaline might keep you from feeling your injuries. Additionally, some issues, like a concussion, don’t always show any outward signs, and symptoms might not appear immediately. Your medical treatment record will also serve as evidence for your injuries to support your claim.
- Take Pictures of Vehicle Damage – As long as your injuries don’t prevent you from doing so, try to take pictures of any damage to your vehicle, belongings, and the scene of the accident.
- Get Witness Testimony – If anyone else saw the accident, get their contact information and write down what they saw.
- Be Careful What You Say – Semi-trucks have both dash and backup cameras, and information could be used against you later. Keep conversations brief, avoid apologizing, and stick to exchanging information.
- Avoid Posting to Social Media – Even a seemingly harmless post about the accident could be used to dispute your claim, so avoid sharing details or pictures until your case is resolved.
- Complete a Preliminary Accident Report – If you can, provide a police officer with the details of the accident before leaving the scene. If you are taken to the hospital immediately, follow up later to make sure a report was filed.
- Keep Track of Medical Expenses – Save all medical bills and receipts for your treatment, including hospital visits, prescriptions, and other injury-related costs.
- Consult with a Truck Accident Attorney – Trucking companies and their insurers have teams of lawyers working to protect their financial interests. A skilled personal injury attorney can help gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and fight for maximum compensation.
- Notify Your Insurance Company – Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible. Provide basic facts, but avoid giving too many details until you’ve spoken with a qualified attorney.
