What to do when involved in a truck accident
A car accident is always scary. An accident involving a tractor trailer or 18-wheeler, however, can be terrifying, or even deadly. Car accidents are the leading cause of accidental death for all persons from ages 1 to 74. These statistics show that most people will be involved in a car accident in their lifetime. However, truck accidents can be much more serious than normal passenger vehicle accidents, and different steps must be taken after an accident.
Accidents happen in an instant. The first step of what to do after an accident actually occurs before the driver ever gets behind the wheel. Smart drivers have emergency kits stashed in their cars. This could include a first aid kit, a set of emergency flares, a camera for documenting the accident, or anything else that might conceivably be used after a car accident. After the initial impact, the driver should evaluate their injuries and those of their passengers. If there are only minor injuries, both drivers should move their vehicles to the side of the road. However, in a collision between a car and tractor trailer, this may be impossible.
In case of an accident, the police should be notified. When calling the police, the extent of the accident and the injuries should be discussed. An ambulance will be dispatched if there are any injuries. This is also a good time to call your car insurance agent. Some companies provide road side assistance, which could prove invaluable. Be sure to inform them that you have been in an accident with a tractor trailer or truck.
All parties should exchange information. In case of an accident with a commercial tractor trailer, both personal and corporate information should be exchanged. Be sure to get both the personal contact information for the specific driver, as well as the contact information for the trucking company. A physical description of the truck including make and model should also be collected.
In many trucking accidents, the trucking company as well as the driver will be held liable. The extent of this cannot often be discovered at the time of the accident, and will require further evaluation by a professional. The insurance company hires specialists in accident recreation and will evaluate the accident. A truck accident lawyer will also be a great help in this situation.
After the initial steps have been taken, notify a truck accident lawyer. He or she will be able to help you receive compensation for your physical and mental damages. Be sure to do so as soon as possible.