A semi-truck accident can be very serious. It can be hard to know how to handle something like this. This is especially true if you have not been in a serious accident before. There are several steps you should take to handle the situation, says a top truck accident lawyer in Phoenix, Saavedra Law Firm, PLC. This will ensure that everything goes smoothly afterward.
What to Do If You’re In a Semi-Truck Accident
The first thing you need to do is to seek medical attention. If you or someone else is injured, those medical needs should be taken care of. Your health and safety should be your top priority. Call 911 for an ambulance if medical attention is needed. It’s important to call 911 for medical attention.
You might have internal bleeding or another injury. You will only know for sure with a medical exam.
If you don’t seek medical attention, this can cause legal problems. You will not be able to prove an injury is from the accident. It’s in your best interest to have a medical exam.
According to Halt, you should stay at the scene of the accident. You shouldn’t leave until an officer or first responder tells you it’s okay to do so. While remaining at the scene, find a safe space to wait.
Make sure you’re out of the way of other vehicles. Of course, if you are injured, that takes priority. You can get in legal trouble if you flee the scene.
Next, you need to call 911. This is legally necessary if there is an injury or death. When you call the police, be detailed. Make sure they can find where you’re located. If someone is injured, be sure to disclose that.
You will also need to call your insurance company. They will file a report. This is important in winning your case. Without this step, you may further complicate the case.
Throughout the process, say as little as possible. According to HG Legal Resources, you should not elaborate. You can share what happened, but don’t add too many details.
You might be talking to your insurance company. You might also speak with the other person’s insurance company. Either way, the information could be used against you.
What Information Should You Gather After a Semi-Truck Accident?
When you are in any type of accident, you need the other party’s information. There is specific information you will need.
The police will create a report when they arrive at the scene. They will note all the information needed. You should write this down for yourself though.
Here is the information you should write down:
– Trucker’s name
– Trucker’s phone number and/or email address
– Trucker’s driver’s license number
– Trucker’s license plate number
– U.S. Dept. of Transportation serial number
– Trucker’s employer or company name
– Insurance number for the trucking company
Keep this information somewhere safe so you can refer to it.
It’s a good idea to take pictures of the accident. This includes the scene, vehicles, and injuries. These can add to the story if you need to tell it. Pictures may be useful if you need to defend yourself too.
While taking notes, see if you can speak to a witness. A witness can provide you with vital information. You might write down what they say. You could also record them on your cell phone.
Do You Need to Hire a Lawyer?
In some cases, you might hire a lawyer. Some accidents can be very complicated. It can be useful to have a professional on your side. Look at a lawyer’s experience and their reputation.
This will help you to make the best decision. You will be glad you took your time.
According to Edgar Snyder, you should not give a statement. You should speak with an attorney before giving a statement. The trucking company or an insurance company may want a statement. You have the right to talk to a lawyer first.
When you are hiring a lawyer, look for one with truck law experience. Truck accidents are complex. They involve many parties, including the driver, their company, and their employer. In some cases, these can be big companies.
This is much different from a typical car accident. In a car accident, it’s you and one other person. Occasionally, two or three vehicles may be involved. With a semi-truck, you are dealing with other parties. They are all bigger than you. They are often prepared to fight against you.
Conclusion
Any type of accident you may get in needs to be handled properly. Big accidents with trucks and buses may be more dangerous. It’s important to follow the steps listed. You may need to take more action as well.
This depends on the nature of the accident. It is also important to remember to act quickly. You don’t want to wait too long to deal with an accident.
