Getting involved in a road accident can be a painful experience, particularly if the collision involves a truck. Commercial truck engines normally weigh up to 3,000 pounds – that’s about the weight of a standard vehicle. But no one ever anticipates an accident. The most important thing is to know what to do in case it happens to you.
1. Collect All the Evidence
The first step in any car accident is to collect as much information as possible from the scene of the accident. Be keen on the time and location of the accident. Take photos that clearly show the damage caused to all vehicles involved in the accident.
Capture images of the make and models of vehicles, license plates and any other information about the trucking company. It would also be a good idea to take photos showing the condition of the road. For instance, you can take pictures of skidmarks, potholes and signs of weather conditions at the time of the accident.
2. Talk To Witnesses
Anyone who was around when the accident can serve as a witness in court. Statements from people who witnessed the accident are crucial in proving who caused the truck accident. Unlike the parties involved in the accident, witnesses have nothing to lose or gain in such a case.
Witness accounts of the accidents are more likely to be seen as neutral by judges. Besides, witnesses offer different perspectives of the accident. Chances are they might have seen something or something that caused the collision that the driver or occupants of the vehicle didn’t see.
3. Seek Medical Attention
It is good to seek medical attention as soon as possible after the accident. If the injuries are severe, you can alert law enforcement to request emergency medical responders. When you contact 911, ensure you properly describe your injuries and those of other accident victims.
Even if you don’t feel any pain, it is important to see a doctor right after the accident. Some injuries such as internal bleeding can only be detected by diagnostic testing. In personal injury cases, seeking medical attention will demonstrate that you to action to try and stop further injuries.
4. Contact an Attorney
One of the things you should do in the event of a truck accident is to talk to a Houston truck accident lawyer. An accident lawyer will help walk you through the legal process and ensure you get the compensation that you need especially if you are not at fault. You should also ensure that you take the contacts of the people who were present when the accident occurred. Take important details such as names of witnesses, their addresses, mobile contacts, and any other relevant information.
5. File a Claim With Your Insurance Company
The next step is to file for compensation with your insurance company. Different states have different timelines as to when victims or any party can file a claim. For example, some states give up to six months from the date of the accident for you to make a no-fault claim. It is advisable to include proof of non-medical expenses such as replacement services and lost wages. Submit these expenses periodically since they are accrued throughout your medical treatment
6. Avoid Signing Anything or Giving Statements to the Insurer
An insurance company will try as much as possible to minimize the amount of money to compensate accident victims. This means using every strategy available to delegitimize your claim. If they get a chance, an insurance company will make direct you into making statements that are damaging to your case. Any statements you issue to them can be used to reduce the value of your claim. You should ensure that all communications come from or are directed by your attorney.
7. Follow Medical Advice
Last but not least, ensure you abide by all the instructions given by your medical doctor. Failing to do so may be taken as an advantage by the opposing parties in the case. They might claim that you made the injuries worse by not following the doctor’s instructions.
Closing Thoughts
Truck accidents have become more common. It is important to understand what to do in case you find yourself a victim. Following the above-mentioned steps can help you recover quickly and get appropriate compensation.
