What to do After a Truck Accident
A truck accident often results in serious and sometimes deadly injuries. When a truck accident happens, it is imperative to immediately assess injuries and call for emergency medical help to stabilize and transport victims to the nearest hospitals. Local law enforcement officials should also be called to manage the accident scene and file an official police report. Once victims and the accident scene are stabilized, it is important to know what to do next when you are involved in a truck accident.
Gather Evidence
Personal Information: Law enforcement officers will routinely gather the personal information of the drivers involved in the accident, but it is vital to collect this information personally, if possible. Be sure to exchange all drivers’ first and last names, contact information, driver’s license numbers, insurance carrier information and policy numbers, and the make and model of the truck and other vehicles involved in the crash.
Pictures: Like the old saying goes, a picture paints a thousand words. Taking photos of the accident scene, damage to the truck and cars involved in the crash, and of the surrounding area leading up to the crash can help insurance agents and adjustors establish liability in a claim. While it may be hard to do so, taking pictures of the accident victims can also substantiate the severity of the collision.
Witness Testimony: Eyewitness accounts of the accident are important evidence. It is not always possible to have a pen and paper available to take down information but capturing a witness’ version of the accident on video using your mobile phone can be invaluable information. Be sure the testimony is recorded clearly and is audible and be sure to ask for the witness’ name and contact information as well.
Medical Documentation: A truck accident often leaves victims with serious injuries. Be sure to document all emergency and medical treatment, physical or cognitive therapy, prescription medications, and doctor appointments related to your injuries. This evidence can be used to determine the amount of compensation that will be awarded to cover these expenses. This information can also substantiate claims for pain and emotional trauma resulting from the accident.
Contact an Experienced and Reputable Truck Accident Lawyer: Claiming justice and compensation for injuries sustained in a truck accident is not easy. Commercial trucking firms and businesses have legal teams that are ready to fight liability. Insurance companies can be intimidating and difficult to communicate with, leaving injured victims feeling defenseless. An experienced and reputable truck accident lawyer knows the law and how to navigate through the often overwhelming process of recovering expenses for medical intervention related to the accident. Lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma can take a financial toll on the victim and their family. A truck accident lawyer will know what evidence is needed to prove your case, and how much compensation is fair for the injuries sustained.
Bucks County Accident Lawyers at Freedman & Lorry, P.C. Help Victims of Truck Accidents Claim Compensation
If you or someone you know has been injured or killed in a truck accident, call the Bucks County accident lawyers at Freedman & Lorry, P.C. at 888-999-1962 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today. Our team of experienced accident lawyers will help you claim the maximum amount of compensation available for the injuries, pain, and suffering caused by your truck accident. Our center city Philadelphia offices serve clients throughout Philadelphia, Bucks County, Delaware County, and the state of Pennsylvania. We also have offices in Cherry Hill, New Jersey and Pinehurst, North Carolina to assist injured accident victims in the surrounding areas.