Sadly, in 2018 more than 4,000 people died in a truck accident, and that number continues to grow every year. Those who didn’t die were left with severe injuries that scarred them for life. A reoccurring issue is that most people don’t know what to do after an accident.
This is understandable, as the traumatic event that is a truck accident may leave the victim confused on what they should do. Unfortunately, people take advantage of this situation and avoid paying for the damages caused by the truck accident. Today’s article will discuss the steps people should take after being in a truck accident.
Contact Local Authorities
Unfortunately, many truck drivers will try to persuade you to settle the matter without contacting law enforcement. You are required to contact the police if there has been substantial property damage or a truck injury. The police can make an official accident report, which will be crucial if you plan to contact an accident attorney.
Receive Medical Attention
Once the medical personnel arrives, be sure to get a check-up, even if you sustained minor injuries. Often, people neglect to get a check-up since they feel fine, but after the adrenaline goes away the injuries surface. Another reason to accept medical help after a truck accident is to have supporting medical documentation, which will prove useful if you decide to take the accident to court.
If you decide not to get a check-up at the scene, then be sure to do it as soon as possible. Suppose there’s a notable delay between the truck accident date and the date you visited a health care provider. In that case, the claims adjuster will question the severity of your injuries.
Document the Truck Accident
Try to video record the scene and take pictures if you aren’t seriously injured or the local authorities haven’t arrived at the location. This added evidence will be useful if you decide to go for a truck lawsuit. Failing to get additional evidence will make it more difficult for your accident attorney to reach a settlement agreement.
Contact an Accident Lawyer
Since truck accidents are quite common, truck companies usually have an arsenal of defense lawyers waiting to be called. That’s why it’s essential to contact an accident attorney, as they’ll know how to confront this kind of defense lawyer. A reputable accident lawyer will handle the claims process and negotiate with the insurance company.
They also know how the system works, which will prevent any injustice from being made on you as the victim. This homepage can help you find a professional accident attorney.
Know Your Rights as a Truck Accident Victim
Every year, people who are victims of a truck accident receive thousands of dollars in compensation. So don’t delay after being in an accident and contact a lawyer. With the help of a lawyer, you’ll be able to receive compensation for any truck injury you or a loved one received.
Did you enjoy this post? If so, be sure to look at our other law-related articles. Without a doubt, you’ll find them as informative as this one.
