Automobile accidents are stressful and scary, but when the accident involves a large truck, it can be additionally traumatic. The massive size and weight of a semi-truck can extensive property damage and debilitating physical injuries, especially when they crash into a smaller vehicle. It isn’t easy to have a clear head after being involved in a truck accident, but it’s important that you are careful about what you do and say at the scene of the accident as well as the days and weeks that follow. The insurance companies will be looking for any way possible to reduce the value of your claim or even deny your claim. Along with the following tips, you can learn more here about what you should and should not do after being involved in a truck accident.
Do Call the Police
It’s important that you contact the police immediately following the collision, especially if there was property damage or injuries. The police will be able to direct traffic away from the scene of the accident which will help to prevent additional accidents. The police will also create an accident report that includes detailed information about when and where the collision happened, the apparent cause of the accident, and statements from witnesses. The police will also conduct sobriety tests in order to determine if any drivers involved in the accident were intoxicated at the time of the collision.
Do Take Photographs
Photographing the scene of the collision may be an invaluable piece of evidence for proving damages and liability. When taking photos, be sure to get pictures of all property damage, all injuries, the position of the vehicles, the road conditions, the weather conditions, and the driver’s license and license plate of the other driver.
Do Write Down or Record
If you have a recording device on your cellphone, it’s recommended that you record the other driver’s contact information, insurance information, and driver’s license information. Also, do not forget to record the employer’s insurance information and the name of the truck company that is listed on the truck. Record all of the witness’s contact information, including name and phone number. If you aren’t able to record, write the information down while it’s fresh in your mind.
Do Get Medical Treatment
Regardless of how minor you think your injuries are, it is important that you visit a doctor or emergency room following the accident. Some injuries may not show up until a few days after the accident, so you’ll want to make sure there aren’t any serious injuries that you aren’t aware of. Also, delaying treatment will make it difficult for your attorney to prove your injuries were due to the collision.
Do Not Admit Fault
If you jump out of your vehicle and make a statement, such as “I’m sorry, I should’ve been watching where I was going,” as it can influence the police as well as the other driver as to what actually occurred. So, do not admit fault, even if you suspect you may be at fault.
Do Not Use Social Media
Posting photos, comments, or videos about the accident, your injuries, or your case may end up hurting you in long run. It’s best to change your profiles to private and do not accept any new connections and be sure to let family and friends know that they also shouldn’t post anything about your accident.
Do Not Sign Anything
Do not sign any paperwork without your attorney reviewing it first. Insurance companies want to settle as quickly as possible and for as little compensation as they can possible get by with. Once you sign a settlement with the insurance company, your attorney will not be able to seek further compensation on your behalf.
Once you have sought medical treatment for your injuries, it’s important that you contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Your attorney will be invaluable at helping you gather all of the information you’ll need to file a claim for your injuries and they will be the middle man between the insurance companies.
