What to do if you’re involved in a truck accident

Sometimes, it seems that no matter how careful you are on the road, you can’t account for other people’s driving behaviours, which can, unfortunately, result in accidents. This is especially severe when large vehicles are involved. No one wants to think of this happening to them, but it is better to know what steps to take after a truck accident and never need to use them than to find yourself in the situation with no idea what to do.

 

Take down all the details

Shock can really affect your memory, so it’s essential to take pictures of everything on the scene. This includes the truck and any other vehicles involved, plus the license plates, the area, and any injuries. This will make it easier when speaking to a lawyer, or even the police. One thing you are probably going to want to do, soon after the accident, is contact a Greenville based truck accident attorney, for example.

Just be sure to choose a lawyer that works best for you.

 

Check for injuries

The most important thing, after an accident, is the health and wellbeing of everyone involved. Check to see if everyone is okay, and treat any injuries with first aid while waiting for the emergency services. It pays to have a first aid kit in your car with basic supplies such as bandages and gauze. If someone has a suspected back or head injury, and it’s safe to do so, ensure they stay exactly where they are, as moving them could cause more damage.

 

Always remember to stop

Sometimes we can be so shaken after an accident, that we forget precisely what to do. Always turn off your car’s engine, and if it’s safe to do so, get out and stand away from traffic. In many states, it is a crime to not stop at an accident, and you should always report even a small fender bender, in order to get a police statement.

 

Be careful what you say

Tempers can be high after a crash, especially if the other vehicle is an enormous truck, but it’s crucial to stay calm and only swap information that you need – for example, names of all drivers and witnesses, information about the car/truck and insurance details. Speak only in facts and try not to get too emotional, or say anything that could be used against you later.

 

Contact your insurance

What your insurance provider will need for a claim will vary slightly between different companies, but it’s essential to let them know what’s happened. Get a quote from a mechanic or body shop for what needs to be fixed, but don’t allow them to begin work on it until you have it signed off by your insurance company. They may ask for more information or extra photos, for example, and you might end up in trouble if the car is already fixed.

 

Truck crashes aren’t common if you don’t drive much, but as with most things, it doesn’t hurt to be prepared and know exactly what to do.

Stewart Thurlow

Stewart Thurlow

I once shared a lift with Meryl Streep & Julianne Moore. Oh, & Victoria Beckham smiled at me. UK Editor for ADDICTED.
Stewart Thurlow

@stewartthurlow

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