8 Steps To Take When Involved In Big Trucks Crashes

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Big truck crashes may result in catastrophic and severe injuries. More often than not, people involved in these crashes are gravely injured and may require immediate medical attention. However, if you're involved in a truck accident and are lucky to incur minor injuries only, there are several steps you can take to help you get the justice you deserve.

No matter what the causes of truck accidents, you can preserve your rights by taking the following steps:

1. Alert The Authorities

When involved in big truck crashes, you should remain at the accident scene. Ensure that you're safe, and, if possible, go to a safer place. If someone is badly injured in the crash, alert the authorities and call the emergency hotline immediately.

Once the officers arrive, they'll assess the current situation, create an accident report, and will instruct you on the next actions you should take. If you have minor injuries and don't require immediate medical attention, don't forget to request a copy of your accident report to have a record or evidence in case you have to go to court due to the crash.

2. Seek Medical Attention

In most cases, responders will check your injuries. Because your adrenaline is high, you might think that you don't need medical help. However, regardless of your injuries, it's better to get a medical evaluation to check for injuries or concussions that might not be apparent after a crash.

In fact, you may suffer from a traumatic brain injury without realizing it. So, if you don't want that to happen, seek medical attention.

3. Know The Parties Involved And Exchange Information

Ensure that you obtain information from the other parties and try to get the names of the possible witnesses. You'll need these pieces of information to determine the responsible party and get fair compensation, whether or not you're at fault. This step may become handy, mainly if the other party is an uninsured driver.

When getting information, make sure to get the driver's personal information, including their name, address, and contact number. You should also get the insurance company information and truck company name.

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4. Take Photos

Taking photos is essential as they serve as evidence. Besides, there's no better way to show the severity of truck crashes than the scene's photos. If possible, take pictures soon after the accident has taken place. It's also vital to remember to take photos of the vehicles involved, plus their plate numbers. You should also take photos of the debris from the crash and document your injuries as well.

5. Report The Crash To Your Insurance Company

Another thing you should do when involved in big truck crashes is to report the incident to your insurance company. The trucking company and its insurance provider will be searching for ways to deny liability and put the blame on you.

If you report the crash to your insurance company immediately, they'll take steps to protect you from the other insurance company. Just ensure to provide details that are only listed in your police report. You don't have an obligation to provide further information.

6. Never Sign Anything

When dealing with insurance adjusters or companies, never sign anything. Even if it's tempting to take the other party's offer, you might not get the fair compensation or settlement you deserve. Before agreeing with any settlement, listen to their proposition and consult your lawyer. 

Also, you have to note that anything you share or say can be used against you and may hurt your case. So, when insurance adjusters show up or contact you to get information, don't give a statement and let your hired lawyer do the job for you.

7. Hire Or Contact Your Lawyer

Before accepting any offer or moving forward with a case, reach out or hire a lawyer specializing in truck accidents. This legal expert can provide you with the knowledge and tools necessary to help you deal with your case.

Lawyers also know your rights and can help you fight for them. They're aware of the laws and regulations in the trucking industry, as well as the possible causes of truck accidents. With their years of experience and expertise, you can be sure that you're in good hands, enabling you to prove your case in court better.

8. Avoid Social Media

Never share photos or any information related to your accident. In today's digital world, anything you post can be screenshot by anyone and may be used against you by the other party. So, avoid social media while your case is still ongoing.

Conclusion

Crashes involving big trucks can be more complicated than the collision involving smaller vehicles. This is especially true if the parties involved the driver's trucking company, employer, manufacturer, or shipper. There are also some federal regulations associated with trucking, so it's more than just following the road laws. Therefore, make sure to hire the best lawyer to get fair settlement and the justice you deserve.