All car accidents are stressful and scary, but if you’re in a crash with a larger truck, it’s important to know what to do if an accident occurs. Here are the proper steps to take if you are involved in an accident with a truck.
Always stop and report the accident
Benjamin J. Sansone, a trucking wreck lawyer in Missouri, stresses the importance of stopping and reporting the accident as soon as it occurs. Even if there seems to be little to no damage and no injuries, you should stay at the scene of the crash and move your car over to safety (if you are able).
If cones or road flares are available, place them around the area and stand out of the way why you call the authorities. Do a quick assessment of the scene if you are able to and if someone is injured or dead, call 911 right away.
If there are no apparent injuries, call the police and someone will come to the scene. It’s important to stay at the scene until you’re given permission to leave.
Get medical treatment
When you are involved in an accident, and you don’t think that you have any injuries, you have the right to refuse medical treatment. Even if you suspect that you don’t have any major injuries, some common injuries like whiplash or even traumatic brain injuries, exhibit symptoms later on.
South Carolina truck accident lawyer, Joel T. Hamilton, strongly encourages that all people who are involved in an accident with a truck should get checked over by a medical professional. Even a minor injury may make you eligible to file a personal injury claim when you’re in an accident.
Record your evidence
In all of the stress of an accident, many people forget to record the evidence and their own account of the accident. If you are able to document some of this information immediately after the crash, you are more likely to have accurate information that can help you later.
Days, weeks, and even months after an accident can affect how well you remember specific details of the crash. Whether you take a short video, take pictures with your phone, or write down some key facts about the accident, taking notes and recording evidence is essential.
Exchange information with witnesses and anyone else involved in the crash
Not only is it important to document information about the crash, but it’s also important to exchange information with all who were involved in the accident. Make sure that you get the driver’s contact info, insurance company, driver’s license number, and contact info for the truck driver’s employer.
Mary Hashemi, a truck accident attorney in Georgia, also strongly recommends getting contact information from anyone who may have witnessed the accident.
Stay calm
When you’re involved in an accident, it may feel like there are a million things to do and if you’re late to work or have damage to your vehicle, there’s a good chance that you’re angry. While it may be difficult to remain calm at the scene of the accident, it’s important. Don’t get in an argument with the other driver and try not to admit to or say that someone is to blame.
