Steps to Take After a Truck Accident

Your actions immediately following a truck accident can have a significant effect on the outcome of your claim. Neglecting to take certain steps may encourage the insurance company to put the blame for the crash on you, for instance, or to conclude that your injuries aren’t as serious as you claim. If you’re ever unsure of what you should do following a truck accident, you can always consult your accident attorney serving Severn. Your car accident lawyer will guide you through each step of the process and help you obtain maximum compensation for your losses.

Contact Emergency Responders

Accidents that involve commercial trucks are typically very serious, given the size and weight of these trucks. However, even if the truck simply tapped your bumper at an intersection, you need to report the accident immediately. Call 911 and advise the dispatcher of your exact location. The dispatcher will need to know whether you or anyone else may have suffered any serious injuries. If so, he or she can send an ambulance to your location. Your car accident lawyer will advise you to file a police report, regardless of the extent of the damage or injuries. Car accident lawyers can use the report as evidence to substantiate your claim. Remember that you should only leave the crash site when a police officer has instructed you to do so.

Gather Important Information

You’ll need to exchange certain information with the truck driver and any other involved parties. Provide your full name, contact information, insurance carrier, and insurance policy number, and obtain this same information from the other party. Be sure to write down the license plate number of the truck. Additionally, get the names and contact information of any witnesses to the crash. Your auto accident attorney can use witness statements to prove the facts of the claim.

Seek Medical Care

Even if you do not appear to have suffered serious injuries, it’s crucial to go to the nearest hospital immediately after leaving the crash site. It’s possible that you have internal bleeding or other severe trauma, even if you don’t realize it right away. Additionally, delaying or refusing a medical evaluation may jeopardize your claim. Once you’ve received medical care, you can contact the insurance company and consult your truck accident attorney.