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Just about every experienced driver has been involved in a simple fender bender or minor car accident involving another passenger car. After a minor car accident, you should:
When there are injuries or serious damage, things can become more difficult, especially involving a commercial truck. Colliding with a huge truck certainly increases the possibility for more extreme injuries. Even an injury-free accident that produces only car damage is complicated because a truck was involved.
When a commercial truck is involved in a car accident, there are many layers of possible liability. Even if the crash was the result of driver error, there may still be avenues to attribute liability to the trucking company, the truck’s manufacturer, or some entity along the business chain of this multidimensional transportation industry.
One of the most important steps to take in the wake of an accident with a commercial truck is to consult a lawyer familiar with the trucking industry and all the areas where liability for the accident could fall. In the moments following the accident, however, there are a few key things to remember to ensure that you collect evidence to support the validity of your claim that you are eligible to collect damages for the accident.
If you are in an accident with a commercial truck, follow these steps:
Report and address injuries: Do not ignore physical pain as injuries can get worse. To collect on an injury that turns out to be serious, you will need supporting documentation that you sought medical attention. Keep diligent records of your injuries and treatments, which can come in handy of you need to fight for compensation for those injuries.
Document the scene and property damage: Photos, videos, and witness statements can support your claim and absolve you of fault in the accident.
Call the police: A police report will contain all accident details and insurance information.
Report the incident to your car insurance: The protocol is to notify both drivers’ insurance carriers. Your car insurance company may act as a go-between for insurance claim purposes, but insurance reps may not be your best advocate.
Do not give statements beyond the facts: Whether you are speaking with the responding officer, or either insurance company, you should stick to the facts of the incident without elaboration. Saying too much may result in your words being used against you to deny your claim.
Hire a lawyer: An experienced attorney can provide advice and representation that offers significant advantages. A skilled truck accident lawyer is key to collecting appropriate compensation for your accident.
If you were injured in an accident with a truck, contact the Wilmington truck accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. For a free consultation, contact us online or call us at 302-656-5445. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we provide legal services to clients throughout the state, including Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.