Semi-truck accidents are traumatic and often result in severe injuries and extensive property damage. Each year, approximately 11% of all motor vehicle crash fatalities involve large trucks, with the majority of those fatalities being occupants of other vehicles. In 2022 alone, large truck crashes resulted in 4,764 deaths, highlighting the severe impact these accidents can have on everyone involved. If your insurance tries to avoid helping, you might find yourself bearing the costs alone. Skilled legal representation is often needed to get the compensation you deserve. So today, we will answer the question "What to do after a semi-truck accident?" and the critical steps you need to take to give yourself the best chance of receiving full damages.
What to do After a Semi-Truck Accident: Key Steps to Take Immediately After
Understanding the critical steps to take following a semi-truck accident can make a significant difference in your recovery and legal proceedings. The proper steps regarding what to do after a semi-truck accident are broadly similar to what to do after a car accident, which are:
- Ensure Safety and Check for Injuries: Safety comes first; make sure everyone involved in the accident is safe. If possible, get your car out of traffic.
- Call Emergency Services: Dial 911 immediately to receive prompt medical care and have the police document the situation.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos and videos of the scene, collect witness contact information, and collect any documentation related to the accident.
- Exchange Information with the Other Driver: Exchange names, contact details, license numbers, and insurance information with the truck driver. Also, note the trucking company's name and truck registration details.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Give your insurance company a concise, factual account of the accident.
- Hire an Experienced Attorney: A personal injury attorney with a proven track record in semi-truck accident lawsuits has the know-how to get your compensation.
All of the above steps are essential for safeguarding your health and well-being after an accident. By following the proper police procedure and keeping conversations with officials short and factual, you’ll avoid compromising your case.
The Types of Damages in a Semi-Truck Accident
Beyond that, you can maximize your compensation by thoroughly gathering evidence of your accident-related expenses. The law recognizes three forms of damages, shown in the chart below:
|
Type of Damage |
Description |
|
Economic Damages |
Compensation for measurable financial losses, such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage resulting from the accident. |
|
Non-economic Damages |
Compensation for intangible losses, including emotional suffering, pain, and loss of enjoyment of life caused by the accident. |
|
Punitive Damages |
Additional penalties imposed to punish the defendant for extreme negligence or reckless behavior and to deter similar conduct in the future. |
Thoroughly document any damages you suffer related to an accident. This can include lost wages, medical care, accident-related expenses, and emotional damages ranging from accident-related trauma to lost relationships or declining enjoyment of life. Photos and videos that indicate negligence on the part of the other driver can help you obtain punitive damages.
What Not to Do After a Semi-Truck Accident
Now that we know what to do after a semi-truck accident, it is important to know what not to do. First, never assume your injuries are minor. Many people get up and walk away from a car accident only for a concussion or spinal injuries to become apparent later. This ties into something else you should never do—don’t accept any up-front offer from the insurance company.
Insurance companies often try to settle cases early with offers that sound impressive. However, these offers are often completely inadequate compared to the total costs of an accident. If your injuries are worse than you realize, the consequences can be catastrophic.
In general, you should never be too conversational regarding an accident. A careless, innocent-seeming comment to the police or the insurance company could come back to haunt you in court. Keep all communications simple and factual, and leave the rest to a truck accident lawyer.
Why Irons and Irons is the Best Choice for Truck Accident Representation
Choosing the right lawyer can be the difference between receiving fair compensation and going empty-handed. At Irons and Irons P.A., we’ve helped many victims of truck accidents secure major settlements.
We level the playing field against trucking companies that overwork their drivers and increase accident rates, thinking they have the money to outlast plaintiffs in court. If you were in a collision, you might be wondering what to do. After a semi-truck accident, you should always call Irons and Irons P.A.
Our experienced team is dedicated to fighting for the compensation you deserve, ensuring that justice is served no matter how powerful the opposition. Don't face this battle alone—contact us for your free case evaluation, and let us help you get back on the road to recovery.