What Should You Do When You Are In A Semi Truck Accident?
What Should You Do When You Are In A Semi Truck Accident?
Being involved in a semi truck accident can be a terrifying experience. Despite the immense size and weight of the truck, accidents can still happen for a variety of reasons. Whether it is due to driver fatigue, distracted driving, mechanical issues or other uncontrollable factors, it is important to know what to do if you ever find yourself in this situation.
Here are the steps you should follow if you are involved in a semi truck accident:
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first thing you should do in the event of an accident is to remain calm and assess the situation. Check yourself and any passengers in your vehicle for injuries. Then, evaluate the conditions around you, as well as the condition of the people and vehicles involved in the accident.
If you or anyone else is seriously injured, call 911 immediately. If there are no serious injuries, it is important to still contact local law enforcement to report the incident and have an official record of what happened.
2. Move to Safety
If possible, move your vehicle to a safe spot before the police arrive. If your vehicle cannot be moved safely, remain in your vehicle with seatbelts fastened and hazard lights on until help arrives. If you are able to move your vehicle, pull it to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights. Avoid standing in the middle of traffic or near the truck, as it may still be unstable and prone to tipping over.
3. Exchange Information
After moving to safety, exchange information with the truck driver and any witnesses. Collect the truck driver’s name and contact information, as well as the contact information of their employer and insurance company. Also, obtain the names and contact information of any witnesses.
Record the license plate number, make, and model of the truck. Take pictures of the truck and any damage to the vehicles, as well as any injuries you or your passengers may have sustained.
4. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Signs of injury may not show up until hours or days after the accident, and an early diagnosis can prevent long-term damage. Furthermore, documenting your injuries can assist you in your legal proceedings, especially in proving damages in court.
5. Contact an Attorney
An experienced semi truck accident attorney can help you navigate the legal system. Don’t delay in contacting an attorney – the longer you wait, the more likely it is that evidence may be lost or destroyed.
An attorney will also help you deal with the insurance companies involved and negotiate for the best settlement possible. Furthermore, they may be able to uncover evidence that proves the truck driver’s negligence and attempt to recover compensation for your injuries.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
It’s crucial to notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident. Some insurance companies have specific guidelines regarding how long after an accident you have to file a claim. Failing to adhere to these guidelines can potentially result in the denial of your claim. Furthermore, if you don’t know who is responsible for the accident, your own insurance provider may be able to cover the costs of damages or injuries.
7. Document Everything
Make sure to keep a record of all the information related to the accident. Keep all medical bills, receipts for expenses related to the accident, and any other documentation related to the collision. This may be helpful to your attorney in the course of litigation.
Wrapping Up
Semi truck accidents can be scary and overwhelming, but there are important steps you can take to ensure your safety and protect your rights. Stay calm, move to safety, exchange information, seek medical attention, contact an attorney, notify your insurance company and document everything. By taking these steps, you can minimize the damage done by the accident and maximize your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.
Categorised in: Car Accident