If you’ve been injured in a semi-truck accident, your physical recovery is likely top of mind. But in the aftermath of such a traumatic experience, it can be difficult to navigate the legal and financial aspects of the situation.
Keep in mind that every situation is different, and there may be unique factors at play in your accident. However, the steps outlined below can serve as a general roadmap and can help ensure you take the right steps in the crucial hours and days following a semi-truck accident.
If you or a loved one was injured in a semi-truck accident, here’s what you need to know.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
The most important thing to do after any accident is to prioritize your health and safety. Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s critical to get a medical evaluation as soon as possible. Some injuries – like head trauma or internal bleeding – may not show symptoms right away. However, these injuries can lead to serious complications later on.
Additionally, getting a prompt medical evaluation creates a record of your injuries that can be used in any legal or insurance proceedings. Documenting your injuries early on can also help you determine the full extent of your damages later on.
Contact Law Enforcement
After an accident, you should always call the police. Even if the other driver agrees to exchange information and handle the situation without involving law enforcement, it’s important to have an official record of what happened.
When law enforcement arrives, make sure to provide the officer with as much information as possible. This includes:
- Location of the accident
- Time of the accident
- Any witnesses who saw what happened
- Any details you can recall about the other driver and their vehicle
Gather Evidence
If you’re physically able to do so, take photos of the scene of the accident. Include any damage to your vehicle and any surrounding obstacles or hazards. If there are witnesses who saw what happened, try to get their contact information.
It’s also important to get the truck driver’s information, including:
- Name
- Contact information
- Employer information
If the trucking company has any identifying information on the truck (like a logo or a license plate number), be sure to write that down as well.
Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
Even if the accident wasn’t your fault, you’ll likely need to report it to your insurance company. Your insurance policy may include coverage for accidents involving uninsured or underinsured drivers, which can be especially important if the truck driver’s insurance coverage doesn’t fully cover your damages.
When talking to your insurance company, stick to the facts of the accident and avoid admitting blame or apologizing for anything. Let your insurance company handle any legal or insurance proceedings on your behalf.
Consult with an Experienced Attorney
Navigating the legal and financial aftermath of a semi-truck accident can be complicated, especially if you’re dealing with serious injuries or damages. That’s why it’s important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who has experience handling semi-truck accident cases.
An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and obligations, negotiate with insurance companies and trucking companies on your behalf, and potentially help you pursue legal action if necessary.
For more information or to schedule a consultation to discuss your options if you’ve been injured, contact Shugarman & Mehring at 410.783.4200 or toll-free at 888.342.7200.
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