Truck Accident Do’s And Don’ts
February 19, 2015From fender-benders to fatalities, auto accidents can leave devastating effects on the victims and their families. Accidents involving large trucks can increase that damage by several times over. The larger mass, higher speeds and greater momentum involved in truck accidents can lead to horrific consequences. Victims are often left with physical injuries, emotional trauma and financial losses. However, truck accident victims can take immediate steps to deal with the damages from such frightening events.
DO Call 911
If anyone has been injured in the truck accident, call 911 and request an ambulance. Even if no one involved in the truck accident reports any serious injuries at the time, you must notify police about the accident. A police report serves as the report of record for the accident. Insurance companies, employers and attorneys use police accident reports as the basis for their decisions.
DON’T Move Injured People
Unless the victim is in immediate danger, such as a fire, any movement could dislodge any joints, organs or vertebrae that were injured in an accident. Your best move is to call 911 and wait for the paramedics. These trained professionals understand how to move truck accident victims in ways that will minimize any trauma. They also carry braces, backboards and other equipment to stabilize injury victims during transport. You should also include yourself in this rule, even if you feel fine at the time.
DO Record As Much Information As Possible
If you are uninjured, you should record as much information surrounding the accident site as possible. Photos, videos and witness statements can all be of use in any truck accident report. You should also record the license plates, vehicle identification numbers and insurance information of any other drivers involved in the truck accident, as well as information on the truck driver’s employer.
DON’T Divulge Unnecessary Information
In the heat of the moment, you may feel compelled to explain how the truck accident happened to police or insurance adjusters. When they ask questions about the truck accident, limit your answers strictly to the facts. Keep your impressions, thoughts or attempts at blame out of the conversation.
DO See A Doctor As Soon As Possible
Regardless of if you felt any injuries in the truck accident, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor can determine if you sustained any injuries that may crop up later, such as spinal injuries or internal organ damage. The medical report and the insurance paperwork will also serve as evidence in a potential truck accident lawsuit.
DON’T Sign Anything Without Consulting An Attorney
The insurance adjusters for the other drivers, including the trucking company, may attempt to have you sign away your rights. You should consult with an attorney to determine if you have a case for a potential truck accident lawsuit. The attorneys at the Amaro Law Firm will make sure that you get the money you need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, vehicle damage, and pain and suffering.
DO Know Your Rights in a Texas Truck Accident Lawsuit
To find out how we can help you with a Texas truck accident lawsuit, contact us today at 888-751-7263. Our friendly staff will ask a few questions about your case and connect you to a Texas truck accident lawsuit attorney. You can also fill out the “Free Case Evaluation” form at the top of this page.