What to Do If You’re Injured in a Truck Accident: A Legal Guide
After you’ve been in a crash involving a large vehicle such as a truck or bus, you will quickly understand just how destructive and dangerous these accidents can be. Due to their size and weight, truck wrecks can result in extensive property damage and calamatous injuries. People injured in a car accident can be left with severe emotional distress, such as post-traumatic stress. Thousands of Americans lose their lives each year in crashes involving trucks.
If you’ve been injured thanks to an accident involving a truck, you are likely wondering how to pick up the pieces and what to do next. The good news is that there’s a chance you’re entitled to compensation to offset the costs associated with treating your injuries. Compensation can include medical bills, paying for long-term care, lost wages due to missed work, and damage to your personal property.
This guide lays out what steps to take in the event you’re injured by a truck crash to recover from your injuries and help an attorney who handles truck accidents maximize your compensation. If you need further information, you can visit “Mama Justice handles Truck Accidents law”.
Contact Emergency Services and Police
Safety if first and foremost after any accident. Call 911 immediately after being injured, even if you think your injuries are minor. Seemingly small injuries can quickly get much worse, while internal problems, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, may not be apparent at all.
File a police report when they arrive if you are able. Police reports are required when filing a truck accident claim and provide strong support for you case. They are also a legal requirement.
Document the Scene and Record Evidence
If you’re able, take pictures of the scene of the accident, including traffic conditions, weather, skid marks, anything that may have obstructed views, and damage to your vehicles. Take note of the truck’s make and model. Ask for contact information from eyewitnesses on the scene so you can get statements after receiving medical care.
Seek Additional Medical Attention and Treatment
Visit a doctor after being released from the scene or hospital if your injuries were severe. You want to get started on your recovery as soon as possible. Follow any and all advice from your medical professionals. Ask for copies of your medical records to include with your claim. Save any bills you receive from your provider or insurance company.
Contact Your Insurance Company
If possible, report the accident to your insurance company within 24 hours. If you have the truck driver’s information, contact their insurance company as well. However, do not make any statement on the record or agree to be recorded until you have consulted with a legal professional.
Consult With an Attorney Who Handles Truck Wrecks
When you’re healthy enough to do so, consult with a lawyer with experience and expertise in truck wreck injuries. Truck companies have lawyers skilled at denying or reducing claims, so you need someone to represent your interests throughout the process. Your attorney will understand how to determine who it fault for the accident, how much your claim should be worth, and how to maximize compensation during settlement negotiations.
Getting into an accident involving a large vehicle will likely have a huge effect on your financial and physical well-being. Follow the steps above immediately after the accident to start on the road of physical recovery and receive justice for your injuries.
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