What to Do After a Truck Accident
Experiencing a truck accident is an immensely traumatic experience and can quickly turn your world upside down. However, knowing what steps to take in the aftermath is crucial to ensure your safety, protect your rights, and navigate the complex aftermath. If you are in a truck accident in Missouri, here’s a guide on what to do.
- Make sure you’re safe. Immediately after the accident, prioritize your and your passengers’ safety. Check yourself and others involved for injuries. Call 911 or ask someone nearby to call emergency services if anyone is injured. Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, injuries from truck accidents can be severe, so it’s essential to seek medical help promptly.
- Move to a safe place. If the vehicles are blocking traffic and it’s safe to do so, move them to the side of the road to prevent further accidents. However, if serious injuries or moving the vehicles could cause more harm, it’s best to leave them in place until emergency services arrive.
- Call the police. Regardless of the severity of the accident, it’s essential to report it to the police. They will create an official report documenting the details of the accident, which is crucial for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings. Cooperate with the police and provide accurate information about what happened.
- Exchange information. Exchange contact and insurance information with the truck driver and other parties involved. Make sure to get the truck driver’s name, phone number, address, insurance company name, policy number, and license plate number. Obtain the company’s name and contact information if a company operates the truck.
- Document the scene. Take photos and videos of the accident scene from multiple angles. Document vehicle damage, skid marks on the road, traffic signs or signals near the accident site, and other relevant details. Visual evidence can be invaluable for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
- Gather witness information. If there are witnesses to the accident, ask for their names and contact information. Witness statements can provide additional perspectives on the accident and support your version of events.
- Seek medical attention. Even if you don’t feel injured immediately after the accident, seeking medical evaluation is essential as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not manifest symptoms right away. Documenting your injuries and receiving timely medical treatment will strengthen any potential injury claim.
- Begin a claim with your insurance company. Report the accident to your insurance company promptly. Provide them with all the information you have gathered, including the police report number, the other driver’s information, and any photos or videos of the accident scene. Cooperate fully with your insurance company’s investigation.
- Avoid discussing fault. Be careful about discussing the details of the accident with anyone other than the police, your insurance company, or your attorney. Avoid admitting fault or making statements interpreted as admitting fault, as this could negatively impact your insurance claim or any legal proceedings.
- Speak with a reputable truck accident attorney. Depending on the complexity of the accident and the extent of your injuries, it may be beneficial to consult with a lawyer well-versed in truck accidents. An experienced attorney can provide guidance on your legal rights, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and represent you in court if necessary.
Compassionate Injury Attorneys Protecting and Defending Truck Accident Victims in Missouri
Navigating a truck accident aftermath can be overwhelming, but with a compassionate truck accident attorney in your corner, you can rest assured that your case is in good hands. At The Goss Law Firm, we will work tirelessly to help secure the maximum compensation you may be entitled to by law for your truck accident injuries, damages, time off work, pain and suffering, and more while you recover.
Contact us today by submitting a form online or calling our office at 816-888-5000 for a free legal consultation.
