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The Do’s and Don’ts of a Commercial Truck Accident
Trucking wrecks are among the worst you can endure. They often lead to serious injuries which could last a lifetime. Some trucking injuries eventually end in death.
If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident, you must take the following steps:
The Do
- Check for Injuries
Your first priority should be the safety of you and your passengers. Check for injuries and, if necessary, call 911 right away for medical assistance.
- Move Your Vehicle to a Safe Location
If your vehicle is blocking traffic or is in a dangerous location, try to move it to a safe place whenever possible.
- Call the Police
Even if the accident seems minor, it’s a good idea to call the police and file a report. This will create an official record of the accident, which can be helpful when you need to make an insurance claim or if there is a dispute about who was at fault.
- Exchange Information
Give your information to the other driver, and try to get theirs as well. Include your name, contact information, and insurance details. If there are witnesses, get their contact information, too.
- Document the Accident
Take pictures of the accident scene, including any damage to your vehicle and the surrounding area. This can be helpful when making an insurance claim.
- Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. They will be able to advise your next steps and help you with any claims.
The Don’ts
- Do not Admit Fault
It is important not to take the blame for the wreck. You shouldn’t even offer an apology, even if you think you may have caused the accident. Your words can be used against you in an insurance claim or legal proceeding.
- Do not Leave the Scene
It’s illegal to leave the scene of an accident without exchanging information or contacting the police, even when the damage seems minor.
- Do not Accept a Settlement Offer on the Spot
You should speak with an attorney before accepting any settlement offers from the other driver’s insurance company.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that you and your passengers are safe and that you have the information you need to handle the aftermath of the accident.
The Cost of a Trucking Accident
Even minor injuries are expensive. You must pay for doctors’ visits, imaging, prescriptions, and any other treatments.
When you have been seriously hurt, which is often the case with trucking accidents, the cost can be astronomical. A debilitating or paralyzing injury can cost millions to treat, and that’s just in the first year alone. Lifelong treatment can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars per year, not to mention the cost of modifying your home, car, and other necessary living expenses.
Even when you walk away unharmed, trucking accidents can put a huge strain on your finances. They can completely total your car. This leaves you with the cost of repairs or a full replacement, which also affects your employment.
Casey Law Offices, S.C. is here to help if you’ve been injured in a trucking accident. We can help you recover money for your injuries, property damage, and lost income. For a free consultation, call us today at (414) 272-5564 or contact us online.
