The financial and legal process after a semi-truck accident often involves multiple parties, such as insurance companies, the trucking company, the truck manufacturer, and others. That means it is important for you to use the services of an experienced semi-truck accident lawyer throughout this complex process.
If you are currently at the scene of a semi-truck accident, your first priority should be safety. Examine yourself for bodily injuries and ask passengers if they have any. Visually assess them, if you can.
If you seem to be injured, it is perfectly acceptable to phone 911 for assistance and take no additional action. Otherwise, you may cause further injuries to yourself.
What Steps Should I Take Next?
First, have a doctor or paramedic examine any injuries you have. If you are uninjured, you can take some actions at the scene of the accident to improve the situation and assist your attorney with a possible case. These include:
- Phoning the police so they can create an accident report
- Turning on your hazard lights, putting out flares, and/or taking other actions to prevent further accidents
- Taking pictures of the accident from several angles and distances (while staying clear of passing vehicles)
- Writing down contact and insurance information about the semi-truck driver
- Writing down contact information for any witnesses
- Calling an expert to assess the damage to your vehicle (but not to repair it)
One action you should definitely avoid is posting any pictures or messages to social media. Your post may be misconstrued during a possible legal case.
What Are My Rights?
In oversize load truck accidents, it’s vital that our clients do not state they are at fault. Even if the truck driver accuses you or an insurance adjuster asks you for more information, you have the right not to incriminate yourself. Instead, simply state that you need to allow your attorney to communicate on your behalf very soon.
Cooperate with the police in recording the basic facts of the accident, but don’t make a statement about who is at fault. You can also cooperate with the insurance company without admitting liability.
Will I Be Able to Get Compensation?
If you choose Ahlander Injury Law as your semi-truck accident lawyer, we will fight for the compensation you deserve. This can include a settlement to pay your medical bills and even your lost wages.
We have experience communicating with insurance and trucking companies, gathering evidence, and defending our clients in court. Contact Ahlander Injury Law for a consultation. You need a Las Vegas attorney who can protect your rights and restore you after loss. Call now.