Being involved in a truck accident is a terrifying experience. These collisions often result in serious injuries, significant vehicle damage, and long-term consequences. In the aftermath, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but the steps we take immediately after the accident, including consulting our Raleigh, NC truck accident lawyer, can make a huge difference in protecting our legal rights and securing the compensation we deserve. Here’s what we need to do.
1. Call 911 And Seek Medical Attention
Our safety comes first. If we or anyone else at the scene is injured, calling 911 should be our first priority. Even if we feel fine, we should still get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, don’t show symptoms right away. Seeking medical care also creates an official record of our injuries, which will be important for any legal claims.
2. Report The Accident To Law Enforcement
When the police arrive, we should provide them with an honest and detailed account of what happened. They will create an official accident report, which will be crucial evidence in our case. If possible, we should request a copy of the report later, as it can help prove fault and establish the facts of the accident.
3. Gather Evidence At The Scene
If we are physically able, collecting evidence at the accident scene is one of the most important things we can do. This includes:
- Taking photos and videos of vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, and traffic signs.
- Documenting our injuries with photos.
- Getting the truck driver’s name, contact information, employer details, and insurance information.
- Gathering witness statements and their contact details.
Since trucking companies and insurers often try to minimize liability, having solid evidence will strengthen our case.
4. Avoid Admitting Fault Or Discussing The Case
After an accident, we may feel the urge to apologize or make statements like, “I didn’t see the truck.” However, these statements can be used against us later. We should stick to the facts and avoid discussing fault with the truck driver, police, or insurance companies until we’ve spoken to a lawyer.
5. Notify Our Insurance Company
We need to report the accident to our insurance company as soon as possible. However, we should be cautious about giving recorded statements or accepting a quick settlement offer. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, so it’s best to consult with a truck accident lawyer before agreeing to anything.
6. Contact A Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accidents are complex because they often involve multiple parties, including trucking companies, insurance providers, and cargo owners. A truck accident lawyer can help us:
- Investigate the accident and gather additional evidence.
- Determine liability, which may involve the truck driver, the trucking company, or even the vehicle manufacturer.
- Negotiate with insurance companies to ensure we receive fair compensation.
- File a lawsuit if necessary to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Taking the right steps after a truck accident can protect our legal rights and improve our chances of securing fair compensation. From seeking medical care to hiring an experienced lawyer, each action we take can make a big difference in our recovery and financial future. At Burton Law Firm, we are here to help.
