Crashes with big trucks can cause terrible outcomes. Many people get badly hurt, and lots of things get broken. After this kind of crash, people may feel stunned and unsure about what to do next. 

But as long as you take prompt and decisive action to secure your rights, things will be fine. From getting first aid after the accident to finding a reputable 18-wheeler accident lawyer, we will look at everything you need to do after experiencing an accident. 

What Steps to Take After an 18-Wheeler Accident? 

• Ensure Personal Safety:

Leave the car and keep a distance from the road if it is safe. If possible, take other drivers with you. This could be when you park your car within walking distance of the road or a sidewalk.

• Assess Injuries: 

Stop for a moment and look around you and others to assess whether anyone is injured. 

• Stay Calm:

When accidents happen, staying calm is hard and can be stressful. Still, it’s a good idea to remain calm and check on everyone’s safety. Breathe deep and make it a priority to ensure that everybody is okay.

• Document the Scene:

Once you are sure it is safe, start documenting the accident scene with photographs. Get a photo of the vehicles involved, showing the damage done to each one. 

Capture videos from various angles and distances to show the entire accident scene. This helps to give a complete view of what happened. 

Additionally, capture photos of essential road signs, traffic lights, and skid marks. These images can help clarify what caused the accident.

• Collect Witness Information: 

If there are any witnesses, request their contact. The court may need witnesses to support your side in the accident. 

The witnesses can help explain what happened between you and the other vehicle. Make sure the witnesses tell what they saw and follow their statements carefully.

• Exchange Information:

Exchange contact and insurance details with the driver of the large truck. Ask for the trucking company name and ID numbers, such as the vehicle plate number. If needed, such details will be used to place an insurance claim and sue.

• Notify Law Enforcement: 

To reach out to the nearby police, tell them about the crash, and give them the location of the accident scene. If the accident appears minor, it’s crucial to obtain the official police report for it.

• Never Admit Your Fault: 

Think before making statements that might suggest fault. It could affect your compensation.

The insurance company and the other party may manipulate your statements. This is done to belittle or deny your claim.

Communicating with insurance companies: Dos and don’ts

Dos

• Report the accident quickly: 

Tell your insurance company about it as soon as possible after it happens. 

Ensure you give them a clear and detailed report of the accident. Include when, where, and how it happened and the injuries sustained.

• Remember to keep track:

Write down all exchanges with the insurance company. This includes calls, emails, and other written records. Write down the questions and answers from the talk. Also, make sure to keep copies of any papers you receive.

• Follow instructions from the insurance company: 

Provide the requested documents before the deadline they give you. Waiting for the required data may extend the processing time for your request.

Seek legal advice if you need help with how to respond or what documents to sign. Consult a personal injury attorney for guidance. 

Hiring an attorney defends your rights. They ensure proper compensation for injuries.

Don’ts

• Please don’t admit fault for the accident:

Avoid accepting blame, even if you feel partly responsible for the collision. 

Let insurance companies and legal experts determine liability. Insurance companies and legal experts should be responsible for identifying the culprit. They will conduct the necessary investigations.

• Don’t give recorded statements without a lawyer present: 

An insurance adjuster might ask for your oral statement about the case. Before agreeing, ask a lawyer to review your case. They can explain your rights to ensure you don’t harm your case unintentionally.

• Don’t accept the initial offer from the insurance company: 

Before accepting the initial settlement offer, consult a lawyer. Check if the compensation adequately covers your injuries and losses.

• Don’t Post About the Accident on Social Media:

Avoid discussing your injuries or cases on social media. Insurance companies could use that information against you during your claim processing.

How Can an 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer Help You Get Compensation? 

We know that a truck crash can be a lot to recover from, both physically and emotionally.

At Mokaram Law, we can help. Post-accident life can be difficult due to disabilities, financial challenges, and more. 

Therefore, you should seek help from experienced lawyers specializing in truck accidents. They will advocate for your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation.

• Expertise in Truck Accident Cases 

When you choose Mokaram Law for your case, you work with a team of lawyers skilled in truck accidents. 

Our attorneys have a lot of experience dealing with these cases. They know the rules for the trucking industry and are skilled in the legal field.

• Thorough Investigation 

Our skilled lawyers will look into what caused your accident. They will gather evidence, talk to witnesses, and review all the paperwork.

• Maximizing Compensation:

Our law firm aims to ensure you receive the most compensation for your injuries and losses. We understand the financial stress from a truck accident. 

So, we work hard to get you all the money you deserve, like for medical bills, time off work, pain, suffering, and more.

• Protecting Your Rights: 

Dealing with insurance companies and legal proceedings can be daunting after road accidents. Recovery makes it more challenging. At Mokaram Law, our mission is to defend your rights and legal interests at every step. 

Our lawyers will handle insurance companies. They will arrange negotiations for you and focus on your best interests. Count on us to be in the thick of it and fight for the compensation you need to rebuild your life.

Takeaway: 

An accident with an 18-wheeler truck can be very deadly. Truck accidents have been increasing in the USA. Most of the time, liability is difficult to determine in truck accidents. That’s where Mokaram Law Firm steps in.

Our truck accident lawyers help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (281) 609-9224 for a free consultation.