What NOT to do after a Truck Accident
Being involved in any accident is a traumatic experience. But the stakes are even higher when that accident involves a commercial truck. These types of accidents often result in serious injuries or even death. If you’re ever unlucky enough to be involved in a truck accident, there are certain things you should NOT do. Read on to find out more.
Don’t Leave the Scene of the Accident
Unlike regular car accidents, truck accidents often involve complex legal issues, such as which laws apply and who is responsible for what. As a result, you need to take extra care to ensure all the proper steps are followed. Leaving the accident scene before everything has been sorted out could jeopardize your case and make it much harder to get the compensation you deserve.
Don’t Neglect Your Medical Needs
In the chaos and confusion after a truck accident, it’s easy to forget about your own medical needs. But it’s important to see a doctor immediately after an accident, even if you don’t think you’ve been seriously injured. There have been many truck accidents resulting in injuries, such as whiplash. Unfortunately, such injuries might not trouble you immediately but can still cause long-term problems if they’re not treated on time.
Don’t Admit Fault
Even if you think you might be at fault for the accident, it’s important not to say so—at least not right away. In the aftermath of an accident, emotions are running high, and it can be difficult to think clearly. You may also feel guilty, even if you weren’t at fault. It’s important to wait until everything has been sorted out before making any statements about who was at fault for the accident.
Don’t Argue With the Other Driver
It’s natural to want to argue with the other driver after an accident, especially if you think they were at fault. But this is a bad idea for several reasons. First, it can make the situation more heated and lead to violence. Second, anything you say to the other driver can be used against you in court. It’s best to let the authorities sort out who was at fault and leave any arguing to them.
Don’t Forget to Gather Evidence
If you’re able, take photos of the accident scene and get the contact information of any witnesses. This evidence can be crucial in proving your case and getting the compensation you deserve.
That being said, avoid these mistakes when gathering evidence:
- Don’t try to move the vehicles yourself. This could cause further damage and make it more difficult to prove how the accident happened.
- Don’t throw away any clothes you wore during the accident. These could be used as evidence of your injuries.
- Don’t forget to get the other driver’s insurance information. You’ll need this to make a claim.
Why You Must Hire a Lawyer After a Truck Accident
Many people think they can handle their truck accident case independently, but this is not advisable. Here are some reasons you must hire a lawyer after a truck accident.
- Better Preparation: The other party will have a lawyer. If you do not have a lawyer, you will be disadvantaged when dealing with the other party’s lawyer.
- Insurance companies are not on your side: Insurance companies are businesses, and their main goal is to make money. They will try to offer you the lowest settlement possible, and if you do not have a lawyer, you may accept their offer without knowing that you could have gotten more money.
- You need someone on your side who knows the law: A lawyer knows the ins and outs of the law, and this knowledge can be very helpful in getting you the compensation you deserve.
- A lawyer can help you get compensated for more than just your medical bills: A good lawyer will also fight for compensation for your pain and suffering, lost wages, and property damage.
- A lawyer can take your case to trial if necessary: If the insurance company does not offer you a fair settlement, your lawyer can take them to court and fight for what you deserve.
Final Word
Truck accidents are serious business. If you’re ever unfortunate enough to be involved in one, there are certain things you should NOT do to protect your rights and give yourself the best chance at getting compensated for your injuries.
Remember: don’t leave the scene of the accident, don’t admit fault, and don’t neglect your medical needs. If you can follow these simple steps, you’ll be on your way to recovering from this traumatic experience.
