What To Do After Being Involved In An Accident With a Semi-Truck

Summer is a busy time on the road with people traveling all over the country. When the highways are busy, they are even more dangerous. In addition to extra vehicles on the road, drivers need to be aware of semi-trucks. Unfortunately, accidents with semi-trucks do happen. Here is what to do if you have been involved in an accident with a semi-truck.

Call For Medical Help

We know that being involved in any type of car accident is scary, but especially with an oversized vehicle like a semi-truck. The most important thing you can do after being in an accident is to stay calm and focused.

First, call for medical help. You may be severely injured or have minor injuries, either way, you should always receive medical attention. Even if you don’t think you are injured, some injuries could take time to manifest. After an accident, shock often prevents victims from feeling the extent of their pain.

Not only will receiving medical attention be the best for your well-being when filing a claim, but these medical records will also be used as evidence when calculating damages. 

Call The Police

After an accident and after calling for medical help, the next step is to always contact the police. Try to avoid talking to anyone at the scene before the cops arrive. Things you say may be considered admitting fault for the incident. Once the police arrive, go through everything you can remember. The statement you give and the report by the police will also be used as evidence in a claim.

Gather Your Own Evidence

If your injuries are not severe and you can move around, try to take photos of the accident for evidence. Most cell phones have cameras on them now so take photos of your car, the semi-truck, any other cars involved, the road, the entire area, and relevant road signs.

All of these photos will be used as evidence and are essential to a successful claim.

Exchange Information

Once the police are present, it is the right time to talk with others involved in the accident and exchange important information. This includes the names, phone numbers, license plate numbers, driver’s licenses, and insurance information from all parties involved. It is also important to gather information about the truck company since they will most likely be held liable if the accident is the semi-truck driver’s fault. If this is the case, then you will likely file a claim with the trucking company.

Contact A Personal Injury Attorney

Once you have done your part and begin recovering, it is the time to call a Philadelphia car accident lawyer to start filing a claim. Provide your lawyer with all of the evidence you have gathered and give them the information needed to track down more evidence if needed.

The right lawyer, like those at Edelstein Law, will handle your case and provide you valuable advice throughout the process. We understand that accidents with semi-trucks are complex issues, but we have the experience to fight to get you the damages you need. These damages will help pay for any medical bills, loss of wages, and car damage. You can focus on healing while we focus on your case.