Being involved in a truck accident, or any other accident for that matter, is always a scary situation to be in. No one ever wants to be in a truck accident, not especially so with a vehicle as huge as a truck. But, no matter how cautious of a driver you may be, it also can’t be denied that accidents can happen when you least expect them to. And, if you panic and don’t know what to do after, then the supposed effects of the truck accident may even be worse.
Rather than let that happen to your situation, stay calm. You may not have control over the accident from happening, but you can, at least, control what happens after the accident.
Be mindful to do the following five things right after suffering from a truck accident:
1.Get Out Of Harm’s Way
Surely, you can’t move the vehicles all by yourself. And, it’s also recommended not to, unless the authorities have arrived and have already taken notes and photos of the accident scene.
But, at least, get out of harm’s way. If you and the other passengers can pull yourselves out of the vehicles you’re in, without getting further injured, make that a priority. You never know the extent of the damage to the vehicles, and the last thing you’ll want is to still be in your truck or car, which may be a ticking time bomb for explosion.
2. Stop And Report The Crash
Never try to leave the scene of the accident. Stop and report the crash. As soon as you and everyone (including the other party) are out of harm’s way, be sure to call the authorities as soon as possible. These include both the police officers and the medics. It’s only through the expertise of 911 or medics that a proper assessment of the injuries can be made. All the more is this important if there are still passengers that can’t be pulled out safely from the vehicles or trucks.
Most importantly, the police record is also needed. Especially when your case has to be elevated to the courts for the claims, the police record forms part of the needed evidence. Without the police record, it can be difficult to prove the circumstances surrounding the accident.
3. Get Medical Help
If anyone is seriously injured, then getting the appropriate medical help should be the top-most priority. Life is always greater than property, and all other facets relating to the damage to property can be resolved later on.
More so, medical help is also necessary to form part of the record for any claim you may have from the accident. If it’s the other driver’s fault, you’re entitled to be compensated for the medical expenses you incur. A truck accident lawyer in Michigan or one from your local area can help you file for the proper compensation you deserve.
So, focus on your medical recovery and nothing else. The bills can be settled later on. Also, be sure that when you make it out of the hospital, you also follow the doctor’s strict orders for better recovery.
4. Exchange Information With The Other Party
Never leave the accident without exchanging information with the other party. Don’t rely on the police to do this for you as its to your advantage to have your own contact information of the other party as well for insurance claim purposes.
Not all parties to the accident are going to be easy to deal with. Some may try to evade liability, and this can be a pain in the neck. But, don’t deprive yourself of the compensation you deserve just because the party responsible for the truck accident is unwilling to cooperate.
Exchanging information can ensure you know where to look for, as well as how to contact the other party privy to the accident, until such time that just compensation for the accident is settled and paid.
5. Take Photos At The Scene
Along with exchanging information with the other party, another prudent step is to take photos of the scene of the accident. Do it in all angles, if you’re mobile enough to go around, or ask someone from your side or family to do it for you.
These photos will constitute documentary proof. Don’t rely only on your memory. Remember that your emotions can be high after the accident, and you may end up feeling dazed or confused. Having photos can help you remember the details of the accident, so you and your lawyer can rightfully prove your claim from the truck accident.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many things you should do right after the accident to ensure you walk out from it with the best results possible. Figuring into an accident is never a nice situation to be in. In fact, depending on the severity of the impact, the effects can be lasting and deadly. Don’t deny yourself of the compensation you deserve, if you’re the victim. Be sure too to receive the proper medical care. The truck accident you’ve been in doesn’t have to shape your life negatively forever.
