18-wheeler wrecks, or an accident with any other large commercial trucks for that matter, can be overwhelming and dangerous.
Knowing what steps to take immediately afterward is crucial for your safety and to protect your legal rights. Here are five key steps to follow after such an accident:
Step 1: Check for Injuries
The first and most critical step after any vehicle accident is to assess yourself and your passengers for injuries. Remember, not all injuries – like concussions, internal bleeding, or traumatic brain injuries – are immediately visible. Be cautious and thorough when checking for signs of harm.
Once you’ve confirmed that no one in your vehicle has life-threatening injuries, check on the driver and any passengers of the 18-wheeler.
After assessing everyone involved, call the police.
This is essential, even if no one appears seriously hurt and the vehicles seem drivable. Medical professionals should evaluate everyone involved, as some injuries take time to manifest.
Additionally, a police report can help insurance companies – and potentially the courts – determine fault.
Step 2: Move to Safety
Accidents can lead to secondary crashes, especially if vehicles remain in traffic. If it is safe to do so, move your vehicle to a safer location, such as the shoulder of the road.
If moving your vehicle is not possible, turn on your hazard lights and exit the vehicle. Make sure everyone stays away from traffic until help arrives.
Step 3: Document Everything
Documentation is crucial. Take pictures of the accident scene, the damage to all vehicles, any visible injuries, and the license plates of all involved vehicles. If possible, record conversations with the other driver, witnesses, or anyone else at the scene.
The more detail you capture, the better. Take note of the time, weather conditions, and specific details like the position of the sun or the moon, the presence of streetlights, or road hazards. If you feel any pain or discomfort, document it immediately. Keeping detailed records helps protect you later.
Step 4: Exchange Information with 18-Wheeler Driver
Be sure to exchange contact and insurance information with the truck driver. You will need their name, the name of the trucking company, and details about the truck’s ownership.
Keep in mind, the truck and trailer may belong to different companies and may have separate insurance. You need to know BOTH.
If possible, get the truck’s TXDMV number. This information can be essential if there are any disputes or insurance complications.
If there are any witnesses to the accident, gather their names and contact details as well. They could provide valuable testimony later on.
Step 5: Seek Medical Attention and Legal Advice
Even if you feel fine, it is essential to get a full medical evaluation after the accident. Many injuries, especially those related to 18-wheeler collisions, can take time to show symptoms.
Once you have taken care of your health, consider contacting a personal injury attorney, as soon as possible. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, and having legal representation can ensure you receive fair compensation.
Many personal injury attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning they do not get paid unless you do. This allows you to focus on recovery while they handle negotiations with the insurance companies.
If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler, you’ll want someone on your side to protect your rights, and to make sure that all of your injuries are tended to. Make sure that when you’re choosing your personal injury attorney, you’re making the best choice.
–Authored by Taylor S. Moore, Esq.,
Matthew Harris Law, PLLC – Civil Litigation Division
1101 Broadway, Lubbock, Texas, 79401-3303
Tel: (806) 702-4852 | Fax: (800) 985-9479