Being involved in an accident is not the way you want to spend your day. However, it does happen from time to time. When it comes to a collision with a commercial truck, there are a few steps you’ll want to take to ensure that your injuries and vehicle are covered by their insurance company.
Get an Accident Report
When any sort of accident occurs, you should be reporting it to the local authorities. They’ll be able to help assess the situation, get emergency assistance, remove the vehicles from the roadway, and collect information. Every insurance company requires an accident report before they will cover any injuries or damages to a vehicle or truck. So, do yourself a favor and get a report regardless if the truck driver wants one or not.
Contact Your Lawyer
You need to hire a car accident lawyer to represent your case. They will take care of dealing with the insurance company so that you don’t have to. They know the laws regarding commercial vehicle accidents in your state and can instruct you on the best measures to take. They will always have your best interests in mind throughout the entire claims process and will ensure that you get the compensation that you’re entitled to as a result of the accident.
Collect Evidence at the Scene
Unless you are severely injured and must seek immediate medical attention, it’s best to use your time at the accident scene wisely. You want to collect as much evidence as possible to support your case. This starts with getting the other driver’s information and information about any of their passengers. You want to take pictures of all the vehicles, their license plates, damages, and the overall accident scene. Get witness information and recollections of what happened so that you can pass this vital information onto your lawyer.
Get Your Medical Evaluation
When you’re involved in a vehicle accident, it can shake you up. This is the time where the adrenaline kicks into your body. This can hinder any sensations of pain in your body. Therefore, you may not notice you’re injured until after you get home or even the next day. It’s best to get a medical evaluation right after the accident to ensure that you aren’t injured. If an EMT is on-site, have them give you an evaluation. Be sure to get their information so you can notate it to your lawyer.
Being involved in a commercial truck accident can be more complicated than a traditional vehicle accident. Knowing what to do makes all the difference in how your case pans out. The above are four steps you must take immediately after a commercial trucking accident occurs.
Author information: Anica Oaks is a professional content and copywriter who graduated from the University of San Francisco. She loves dogs, the ocean, and anything outdoor-related. She was raised in a big family, so she’s used to putting things to a vote. Also, cartwheels are her specialty. You can connect with Anica here.
