The likelihood of fatal injuries in a truck accident is high. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 4,000 people die in truck accidents every year. This statistic is because trucks are much larger and heavier than cars, and they can cause much more damage in an accident. It means that if you are involved in a truck accident, there is a greater chance of being seriously injured or killed.
However, you might get out of a gruesome-looking truck accident with only minor injuries. As fortunate as it might be to come out of it unscathed, you still have to take action after the accident. Here’s what you should do if you’re involved in a truck accident with minor injuries.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine after the accident, seeking medical attention is essential. Some injuries might not present themselves immediately after an accident. For example, you might have a concussion or whiplash and not realize it until days or even weeks later. By seeking medical attention right away, you can get a diagnosis and treatment for any injuries you might have.
It will be best to avoid moving when the ambulance arrives. The paramedics will be able to assess your injuries and stabilize you before taking you to the hospital. If you do not have any severe injuries, the paramedics might recommend that you see a doctor as soon as possible. People should not take chances regarding their health and should always seek medical attention after an accident.
Get the Truck Driver’s Information
Whether you can get out of the truck on your own or with the help of paramedics, be sure to get the driver’s information. This step includes their name, contact information, insurance company, and policy number. If possible, take pictures of their license plate and insurance card. It would also be beneficial to get the contact information of any witnesses at the scene.
The police will also likely get this information when they arrive at the accident. However, it doesn’t hurt to have a copy for yourself. This information will be handy when filing an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit.
Unfortunately, truck drivers might not always stop after an accident. If the driver flees the scene, try to get as much information about their truck as possible. This data includes the make, model, and license plate number. If there are any witnesses, see if they can describe the driver. Any information you can get will help track down the driver.
File an Insurance Claim
After you’ve taken care of your injuries and gathered the driver’s information, you’ll need to file an insurance claim. Your first step should be to call your insurance company and tell them about the accident. Be sure to have your documentation ready when you call, including a police report and medical records.
If the other driver was at fault for the accident and you have evidence to support it, you might have to secure truck accident law firm services to help you with your claim. An attorney can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf and help you get the compensation you deserve. They will also be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the other driver if necessary.
Personal injury lawsuits can be complicated, so it’s best to have an experienced attorney by your side. If you’re unsure whether to file a lawsuit, an attorney can advise you on what to do next. However, remember that you usually only have a limited time to file a lawsuit, so it’s best to act quickly.
Rest and Recover
After you’ve taken care of everything else, it’s time to focus on your recovery. Rest is essential for healing, so get plenty of it. You might also need to take some time off work to recover from your injuries. If your injuries are severe, you might need to stay in the hospital for a while.
Be patient as you heal, and don’t push yourself too hard. It’s essential to listen to your body and give it the time it needs to recover.
You might encounter traumatic events even if you are physically okay after the accident. It’s not uncommon to experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder after a truck accident. Don’t hesitate to seek counseling or therapy if you struggle to cope with what happened.
Final Thoughts
Truck accidents can be devastating, but staying calm and caring for yourself and your property is essential. Be sure to get medical attention, even if you don’t think you’re injured. Then, focus on gathering evidence and filing an insurance claim. If necessary, secure the services of a truck accident law firm to help you with your case. Finally, take the time to rest and recover from the accident.
