The US trucking industry has steadily grown since the pandemic. With more customers shifting to online shopping, the logistical need for trucks has increased. And as heavily loaded trucks are traveling more miles to fulfill customer needs, the chances of accidents have drastically increased. Trucking accidents can be incredibly devastating, causing significant injuries and property damage. If you are involved in a trucking accident, it can be overwhelming and confusing to know what to do next.
This article will provide you with practical guidance on what to do if you are in a trucking accident.
Steps To Follow When You Are Involved in a Trucking Accident
Call a Trucking Accident Lawyer
The first thing to do if you’re in a trucking accident is to call a lawyer. The accident can be incredibly complex, involving multiple parties, such as the truck driver, trucking company, and insurance providers. A knowledgeable trucking accident lawyer can guide you through the legal process, helping you understand your rights and options. He can advocate on your behalf to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
A trucking accident lawyer can help:
- Find all the liable parties.
- Handle communication from insurance companies, adjusters, and other parties involved.
- Negotiate better with the insurance agency to get the best compensation.
- Help you get non-economic damages including mental distress and compensation pay.
Seek Medical Assistance
Most accident victims typically seek help only if they have obvious injuries. However, you must get medical attention even if you feel fine. There is a consensus in the emergency care field that the first hour after the accident is the most critical period. Even if you feel fine after the accident, trauma can manifest later, making it all the more important to put your health first.
Gather All the Evidence
Capturing all the evidence immediately after an accident is a simple way to make the insurance claim process smoother. This is because most insurance agencies require accurate information about the damages. If it’s possible, you should take photos of the accident scene and any visible injuries. You should also gather contact information from any witnesses to the accident, as their statements may also be valuable evidence.
Let the Lawyer Handle the Communications
If you find yourself in a truck accident, you’ll generally be asked to recount the accident and explain the general damages to multiple parties—including insurance agents, third-party negotiators, and opposing lawyers. Unfortunately, some insurance agencies may make the process more complex and exhausting, leading you to concede partial or complete fault. That’s why it’s crucial to have a lawyer to represent you and handle all communication on your behalf. This way, you can focus on getting back to your life while the legal expert deals with the intricacies of the process.
Make Plans for the Immediate Future
You may need to make plans for the immediate future, such as taking time off work to recover from your injuries, arranging for transportation, or finding a place to stay if your home or vehicle was damaged in the accident. You may also need to make arrangements for ongoing medical treatment, such as physical therapy or rehabilitation. Even if you’re not seriously injured, an accident can have a huge impact.
Trucking accidents can be complex, which is why seeking the assistance of a competent attorney is crucial to filing your claim and securing a speedy settlement. At Collins Law, we have a team who possess a comprehensive understanding of all the elements involved in a trucking accident. You can check out our website or call us at 318-626-7300 to schedule a consultation.