3 Things To Do If You're Injured In A Truck Accident
Being involved in an auto accident is terrible enough, but when your accident is with a semi truck, the potential for damage and injuries is even worse. Hopefully, you'll never be in an accident at all—let alone one involving a semi truck. If you are, however, it's important that you understand the steps you need to take to protect yourself both physically and legally.
Get Medical Attention
First and foremost, never turn down medical attention following an accident with a semi truck. Even if you don't have any noticeable injuries at the time of the accident, there's a good chance you're suffering from delayed injuries like whiplash, which can take days to show symptoms. With all the adrenaline in your body after an accident, you may not actually feel any physical pain until the shock of the incident has worn off.
Either way, being evaluated by a medical professional is key to detecting hidden injuries. Plus, if you need to seek legal recourse down the road, you'll want to have proof that you were seen by a doctor right away after the accident.
Document Everything
Whenever possible, take photos and retain all the documentation you can of the accident. This should include not just photos of your vehicle and the semi truck but of road conditions and any other vehicles involved as well. If there were any witnesses to the accident, ask them to stick around and provide a statement to the police. At the very least, ask for their contact information so you can reach out to them for a statement if needed later on. The more documentation you have in your favor, the better.
Consult With an Attorney
One of the best things you can do for yourself after an accident with a semi truck is to consult with a semi truck collision attorney. He or she will be able to evaluate the details of your case and determine what legal recourse you may have for the truck driver's negligence. This could include seeking compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more. The last thing you want is to take on a truck company's insurance carrier without your own legal representation.
Following these steps in the event of an accident with a semi truck could make all the difference when it comes to reaching a fair settlement, so be sure to keep this information in mind.
Contact a firm like Rudorfer Law for more information.