Being involved in a truck accident is a scary situation. The amount of confusion immediately after an accident like this can be great.
Accidents involving tractor trailers and smaller passenger vehicles are often complex and will likely involve many factors and many parties. So, if you or a loved one is involved in a tractor trailer accident, it is important to follow the steps necessary to protect your rights.
Stop and Report the Accident
Anyone who is involved in the accident needs to remain at the scene of the crash. It’s important to make sure you and you’re passengers stay safe and if possible, remove your car from the road. Then, call 911 immediately, especially if there are severe injuries.
Emergency personnel will assist with any injuries that the victims have incurred. The police will take extensive notes and statements from the victims and any witnesses. In addition, they will take photos as part of their accident report. However, if you are able, take as many notes and pictures as you can. Doing so can greatly help your case.
Seek Medical Treatment
Truck accidents involving passenger vehicles often end it serious, even life-threatening injuries. Therefore, it is often urgent to get medical attention. However, even if you have minor injuries, or seem to have no obvious injuries at all, seek medical attention. After an accident, adrenaline could prevent you from feeling pain or noticing an injury.
If you are not immediately transported to the hospital, visit your doctor as soon as possible. Seeking medical treatment is not only important for your physical health but it also imperative to you receiving compensation for any and all injuries.
Document as Much as You Can
Do as much as you are able to do after being involved in an accident with a tractor trailer. Exchange information with the other party or parties while at the scene of the crash. Find out as much as you can about the trucking company. Check for witnesses and get their contact information.
Use your phone to take photos as they can be used as evidence to prove who was at fault. Take pictures of the vehicles involved, your injuries, damage to the vehicles and the surrounding area. Take pictures of the road and anything else you may think is important.
Be Careful of What You Say
Do not say the accident was your fault! Even if you think it was. You may not be thinking clearly after the accident, you may not understand exactly what happened.
You will eventually be contacted by an insurance adjuster. Be careful of what you say to them because they can use anything you say against you. The conversation will likely be recorded. In fact, before talking to the adjuster contact a truck accident attorney. They can advise you on what you should and should not say. While you are required to cooperate with the insurance company, you are not required to give a statement.
Contact the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann
For more than 25 years, the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann has provided truck accident victims with the necessary information to make the right choices so that they can receive the best medical care, benefits and income. We have the experience and resources necessary to assist you in recovering the damages you may be entitled to receive.
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St. Louis Truck Accident Attorney
The St. Louis truck accident attorneys at the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann can help you hold the responsible party accountable and seek the full amount of compensation you are entitled to. Give us a call today for a FREE case evaluation.