Any type of car accident is a shocking and upsetting experience, even if there are no serious injuries or damages. When the accident involves a large truck, the chances that serious injury will occur are dramatically increased. In fact, accidents involving semi-trucks are far more likely to result in death or a catastrophic injury — injuries so severe that the victim’s life will never be the same again.
I Was in a Truck Wreck: What Now?
After the shock of a truck wreck, it can be difficult to think clearly about what to do, particularly if you or another person has been injured. If you are involved in a truck accident, here is some general advice about what to do:
- Contact the police and Emergency Medical Services (EMS). The scene of the accident will start to change, altering evidence, almost immediately after the crash. Contact police to get a report started while the scene is still mostly intact, ensuring that there will be ample evidence of what happened. If you or anyone else is seriously injured, medical attention is the priority.
- Document everything you can. Most of us carry cellphones with a camera feature, making it possible to take pictures and document the accident scene. If you are able, take pictures at the scene, including the position of vehicles, and the roadbed if skid marks are present. It can also be helpful to write down a detailed account of your recollection of the accident as soon as possible.
- Talk to others, but be careful what you say. Make sure to get information from the truck driver and the company he or she is driving for, but refrain from speculating as to the cause of the accident or saying anything that could appear to be an admission of fault. Even a polite “I’m sorry” could potentially be construed as an admission of guilt. Also, try to talk to any witnesses who saw what happened and could corroborate your account of the events. Get their names and contact information, and be prepared to provide this data to the police and to your attorney.
- Seek medical attention, even if you are not sure you are injured. Injuries sustained in vehicle accidents may not be immediately obvious. Adrenaline can lower your sensitivity to pain, and muscle and joint pain may become unbearable in the days following the accident. Internal injuries and head injuries, if left untreated, can be fatal. Seeing a doctor immediately after the accident can ensure that your injuries are treated, as well as documented.
Experienced Truck Accident Attorney in Joplin, MO
At The Hershewe Law Firm, we have been helping injured people recover the compensation they deserve since 1977. If you or a loved one have been in a truck wreck, time is of the essence. There is limited time in which to file a claim under state law. It is vital that we get involved as early as possible so we can obtain and preserve evidence to craft a compelling case on your behalf. To enlist the services of a truck wreck lawyer who cares, contact our office.