Steps to Take Immediately After a Trucking Accident

Being involved in a truck accident, especially with a semi-truck or 18-wheeler, can be a life-altering event. These massive vehicles can cause significant damage, often leading to serious injuries such as spinal cord damage, paralysis, and even fatalities. If you've been in a truck accident, it’s essential to know what steps to take next to protect your health, your legal rights, and your future.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do after a trucking accident.

1. Prioritize Your Safety and Health

Your immediate safety and well-being should be your top priority. If you can, move to a safe location away from traffic to avoid further harm. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance.

Even if you believe your injuries are minor, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Many serious injuries, such as spinal cord injuries, may not show immediate symptoms but can lead to long-term complications if left untreated. Medical documentation also plays a vital role in any legal claim you may pursue later.

2. Document the Scene

Once you are safe and have contacted emergency services, try to gather as much information as possible from the accident scene. This evidence will be crucial in building a strong case against the responsible parties. Here’s what you should focus on:

Take photographs of the vehicles involved, including the semi-truck or 18-wheeler, any visible damages, skid marks, and road conditions.
Record the truck's license plate number, company name, and any identifying features.
If there were any witnesses, collect their contact information, as their testimonies may support your case.
Obtain the truck driver's insurance information and the police report once it's filed.

3. Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Right Away

After a truck accident, you may be contacted by the truck company’s insurance adjusters. It’s important to understand that these professionals work to minimize payouts, and anything you say can be used against you to reduce or deny your claim.

While it may seem like a good idea to cooperate, it’s best to avoid giving any statements or signing any documents until you’ve spoken to an attorney who specializes in truck accident cases. A personal injury attorney can advise you on how to navigate these conversations and protect your claim.

4. Contact a Truck Accident Attorney

Truck accidents are not like typical car accidents. Semi-trucks and 18-wheelers are governed by both state and federal laws, making these cases more complex. In addition to the driver, the trucking company, manufacturers, or even the maintenance company could be held liable for your injuries.

By consulting an experienced truck accident attorney, you can ensure that every aspect of your case is investigated. At Shamberg, Johnson & Bergman, we have extensive experience handling truck accident cases, especially those involving spinal cord injuries and other catastrophic injuries. We understand the unique challenges of dealing with large trucking companies and their legal teams.

5. Preserve Evidence for Your Case

Your attorney will take the lead in collecting and preserving critical evidence, including the truck’s black box data, maintenance logs, driver logs, and more. This evidence can establish whether the driver was fatigued, speeding, or if the truck had been properly maintained.

6. Focus on Recovery

While your attorney handles the legal aspects of your case, your primary focus should be on recovering from your injuries. Spinal cord injuries, common in large truck accidents, often require extensive rehabilitation, ongoing medical care, and lifestyle adjustments. Your attorney can work with medical experts to ensure that your future medical expenses are accounted for in your settlement.

Get the Compensation You Deserve—Contact Our Truck Accident Experts Today!

If you’ve been involved in a semi-truck or 18-wheeler accident, don’t wait to seek legal assistance. Our personal injury law firm specializes in truck accident cases and has a deep understanding of the challenges associated with spinal cord injuries and catastrophic accidents. We’re here to help you secure the compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.