4 Things to Do if You Are Involved in a Trucking Accident
Did you know that every 16 minutes a person in the United States will die or be injured in a wreck that involves a large truck? This includes any vehicle that weighs over 10,000 pounds, but most of the time it involves a tractor trailer or semi-truck. Because of the size of these vehicles, it is much more likely for someone to be injured in these accidents. Here are 4 things to do if you are involved in a trucking accident:
1. Check for Injuries
Anytime there is a vehicle accident, the first thing you want to do is check yourself and others involved for injuries. Not only are those involved in a trucking accident more likely to be injured, but there is also a higher probability for multi-car crashes. If a tractor trailer tips over on the interstate or spins out and stops traffic, there is a good chance more vehicles will be involved than just your average fender bender. Be sure to document any injuries that are obtained during the incident, and call for medical attention if necessary.
2. Document the Accident
As you should do following any type of vehicle accident, it is important to document the scene after the crash. This includes taking photographs of all the vehicles involved, obtaining witness statements, and filing the police report. When in doubt, having too much evidence is always better than not having enough. If you require medical treatment in the days following the crash, be sure to also document any doctor’s diagnosis and keep records of the insurance information for all those who were involved in the accident.
3. Call the Authorities
Even if you have not been injured, it is still important to notify the police of any motor vehicle accident. They will come to the scene and help collect insurance information and write up a police report. This document will be important if you need to file a claim to receive any type of economic damages. Some of the things that you can receive compensation for include medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. You may also be able to file a claim for non-economic damages, which are things such as pain and suffering and mental anguish.
4. Contact an Attorney
A trucking accident is much more complex than a typical automobile crash. They involve a web of state and federal laws and regulations. If you are involved in one of these situations, it is important to reach out to our law office as soon as possible. An insurance company is obligated to its stakeholders and policy holders, not to the people injured. This is especially true with the insurance companies that run the accounts for big trucking corporations. Our team can help ensure you get properly compensated for your damages.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a trucking accident in Tennessee, contact one of our personal injury lawyers today to speak with an attorney about your auto accident claim.
