If you find yourself involved in an accident with a semi-truck, it can be an overwhelming situation. If the truck driver is at fault, you may have legal grounds to pursue compensation for any damages sustained in the accident.
Before you can move forward with a case, you must follow a few steps. Having the steps in mind ahead of time can help clear your mind when dealing with the aftermath of such a devastating accident.
To learn more about what you need to do after a semi-truck accident, keep reading.
1. Document the Scene
Take pictures of the semi-truck wreck from multiple angles. This can be done with a camera or smartphone and should include close-up shots of any damage that has been done. It’s important to record the license plate numbers of the affected vehicles as well as any contact information from potential witnesses.
You should also take the time to document any damage you sustained from the accident, as well as take pictures of any injuries. It’s important to take down the contact information of any law enforcement or emergency services personnel who were at the scene of the accident. All of this information will be valuable should you pursue a legal claim.
2. Contact Authorities
After a semi-truck accident, contracting authorities should be a top priority. This includes calling 911 to alert emergency services, as well as alerting both the police department and the local highway patrol. Emergency responders can assess the scene, provide medical attention for any injured parties, and take statements and contact information from all those involved.
It is important to contact the driver’s employer or the truck’s freight carrier as soon as possible to alert them of the incident and provide the necessary paperwork. Gather any important evidence from the scene, including pictures, if possible, to provide to the police and insurance companies.
Make sure to reach out to a trusted legal firm before hiring a lawyer. If you’re in Las Vegas, you can check out https://stevedimopoulos.com/trucking-accidents/. They have a long track record of handling truck accidents and can be beneficial for your legal claims.
3. Seek Medical Attention
If you’ve been in a semi truck accident, seeking medical attention should be your top priority. It is vital to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and report any post-accident pain, even if it is months later. After noticing signs of an injury, it is important to contact a doctor, physical therapist, or chiropractor in order to assess the severity of the injury and get your pain under control.
Having someone to provide guidance and advice after the accident is also recommended. Treating any physical injuries swiftly and accurately can help improve your recovery time. Some may benefit from seeking psychological assistance to help them process their experience.
Follow These Tips When You’re Involved in a Semi Truck Accident
After a semi-truck accident, it is important to remain calm, document the scene, contact authorities, and seek medical attention as needed. Following these steps can help protect your rights and ensure a successful resolution of the accident.
If you or someone you know is involved in a semi-truck accident, contact an attorney immediately for help.
