You’re driving home from work. Suddenly, a large truck swerves into your lane. Metal crashes. You’re hurt and confused. You have no idea what you should do first. But what you do next matters a lot.
Truck accidents are scary. Like all freeway accidents, truck accident cases are fast-moving. Before you know it, medical bills start piling up. Insurance companies try to get a recorded statement. Following the right steps can protect your rights; the wrong steps can hurt your case.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do after a truck accident to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Ensure Safety and Call 911 After a Truck Accident
Your safety comes first. Check yourself for any injuries. Stay calm and take deep breaths. If you can move safely, check on other passengers.
Call 911 right away. Tell the police:
- Where the accident happened
- If anyone is hurt
- If cars are blocking traffic
Stay on the phone until help arrives. The operator may give you important instructions. Move your vehicle only if it’s safe and your state’s laws require it. Police need to see where everything happened. If your car is smoking or leaking fluid, move away from it. Stand in a safe spot away from traffic.
The police will document the accident, which will help us at Freeway Injury Lawyers and insurance companies understand what happened. Police reports are helpful, but not the final word on fault.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention After a Truck Collision
Always see a doctor after a truck accident, even if you feel fine. Not all injuries show up immediately. Pain can appear hours or days later.
Tell the paramedics about every injury, even if it feels minor. Do not refuse medical care.
Truck accidents cause serious injuries. Large trucks weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Your car weighs about 4,000 pounds. The size difference means big impacts.
Common injuries include:
- Head and brain injuries
- Neck and back pain
- Broken bones
- Internal bleeding
- Cuts that need stitches
Going to the doctor also creates a medical record. Please keep all medical records safe. Save every bill. Write down every doctor visit. This paperwork will help your lawyer prove your injuries later.
Document the Truck Accident Scene
If possible, take photos of the accident scene. Photos help prove what happened.
Take pictures of:
- All damaged vehicles from different angles
- The truck’s license plate and company name
- Skid marks on the road
- Traffic signs or signals
- Your injuries
- The exact location
Don’t forget to write down what you remember while it’s fresh. Where were you going? What time did it happen? What did you see right before the crash?
Look around for cameras. Gas stations, stores, and traffic lights often have cameras. Tell the police about any cameras you see.
Exchange Information with the Truck Driver and Witnesses
Get information from the truck driver. Please don’t try to argue and prove fault. Stay polite. Exchange the information required by law in your state.
Get this information:
- Driver’s full name and phone number
- Truck company name
- Insurance company name and policy number
- Truck license plate number
- Driver’s license number
Look for witnesses. Did other drivers see the crash? Ask for their names and phone numbers. Witnesses can be important for your case.
Give your information to the truck driver, too. Keep it simple. Name, phone number, and insurance information only.
Please don’t admit fault or say you’re sorry. Even if you think you did something wrong, stay quiet. Let the expert lawyers figure out the fault later.
Report the Truck Accident to Your Insurance Company
Call your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident. Most policies require quick reporting. But be careful what you say.
Tell them:
- The accident happened
- When and where it happened
- Basic facts only
If you’re not sure about something, don’t say it.
Don’t give a recorded statement without consulting a lawyer. Insurance companies may use your words against you later.
Don’t accept the first offer insurance companies make. Early settlement offers are usually too low.
At Freeway Injury Lawyers, we offer free consultations to truck accident victims. We’ll review your case and give you an estimate of the compensation you deserve.
Why You Need a Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accident cases are complex. They involve multiple parties—big trucking companies, insurance adjusters. You need someone in your court who will fight hard to ensure you get the justice you deserve.
A truck accident lawyer:
- Investigates the crash thoroughly.
- Gathers evidence to prove fault
- Negotiates with insurance companies
- Fights for maximum compensation
Our expert truck accident attorneys know how to prove fault and build a strong case for you. We work tirelessly to hold negligent truck drivers accountable.
Freeway accidents are fast-moving. Evidence vanishes. Witness memories fade. States have deadlines to file claims. The statute of limitations is usually 1–3 years, depending on the state. Don’t wait too long to call a lawyer. The faster you act, the stronger your case becomes.
Understanding Truck Accident Claims and Compensation
You shouldn’t have to pay for someone else’s negligence.
Most people think you can only get compensation for medical bills or vehicle damage. But that’s far from the truth.
You can recover money for:
- Hospital and doctor bills
- Future medical care
- Lost paychecks
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Physical therapy
Truck accident settlements are often larger than car accident settlements. Why? Because trucks cause worse injuries. Companies also have bigger insurance policies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Truck Accident
Many people make mistakes after accidents that hurt their claims later.
Here are the most common ones to avoid:
- Do not leave the scene. Leaving before the police arrive makes you look guilty.
- Do not skip medical care. Insurance companies will say you weren’t really hurt.
- Do not post on social media. Insurance companies check your profiles. One misleading photo can hurt your case.
- Do not sign anything. Trucking companies may ask you to sign releases. These forms can take away your rights. Show every paper to your lawyer first.
- Do not give recorded statements. You may say something that hurts your case without knowing it.
- Do not wait too long. Evidence disappears. Memories fade. Act fast.
Your Next Step Starts Now
Truck accidents turn lives upside down. It’s stressful and confusing. You wonder if things will ever feel normal again.
You don’t have to handle everything alone. The right help makes all the difference.
At Freeway Injury Lawyers, we work on a contingency basis. You don’t pay anything up front. We only get paid if we win for you.
Don’t let the trucking company push you around. Contact us today to get your life back on track.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What if the truck driver says the accident was my fault?
Please do not argue with them. Let the police investigate. Get a lawyer to protect your rights.
- How much is my truck accident case worth?
Every case is different. It depends on your injuries, bills, and lost wages. A lawyer can estimate your case value.
- Will I have to go to court?
Most truck accident cases settle without trial. But we’re ready to go to court if needed.
- Can I still get money if I was partially at fault?
Yes, in most states. Your payment may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. A lawyer can explain your state’s rules.
- What if the truck driver doesn’t have insurance?
Most trucking operations are required by federal law to carry liability insurance, even if the driver is independent. Your own insurance may also cover you.
- How long will my case take?
Some cases settle in months. Complex cases may take a year or more. Consult us today so we can give you a clear timeline.
