Trucking accidents are very serious situations and can often involve significant injuries to all parties involved. While the initial response should be to ensure the safety and medical treatment of everyone on the scene, the aftermath and legal consequences of the incident require careful attention. Whether or not the driver of the truck is at fault, taking the following precautions can help protect the legal rights that may be at stake. Having truck insurance is just one part of a successful defense when facing litigation over an accident.
What To Do After a Truck Accident
Emotions and nerves run high immediately after a crash, and physical injuries can make the entire scene more desperate and complicated. The safety of everyone is always the first thing to take care of, which means making an initial check of the condition of you, your passengers, or the individuals in the other vehicle.
1. Telephone for Help
Calling emergency services is the first thing to do. This generally means 911, as the responding dispatcher will often send out the appropriate responders. Local law enforcement will respond, and if the dispatcher is informed of injuries, an ambulance will be dispatched. A responder from the fire department may also appear to help secure the scene or address potential fire threats. Always give the dispatcher enough information to respond appropriately. Include how many vehicles were involved and the nature of the injuries.
2. Get Medical Help
This is one of the most important elements of truck accident procedures. Always get a medical evaluation, even if you don’t have any visible symptoms. It is possible to suffer from an injury that won’t present any complications or require any medical attention until much later. If you fail to receive an exam at the time of the accident, it may be more difficult to establish a collision-related injury down the road. Though a first responder may give you a brief medical exam on the scene, always request a complete medical exam at the local hospital or by your provider. Conditions like internal bleeding require a more thorough medical evaluation.
3. Involve the Authorities
When a 911 dispatcher sends out a response team, it will most likely include a police officer. The responding officer will complete a police report, and you should never discourage this official report. This is an authoritative documentation of the accident, and the officer will speak to all parties involved. It is important to have this information clearly and formally recorded, no matter how minor you think the accident is.
About Western Truck Insurance Services
Western Truck Insurance Services is a commercial truck insurance agency with roots dating back to 1954. We have evolved into a highly respected, professionally managed, truck and transportation insurance brokerage. The hallmark of our organization is our desire to provide unparalleled service. We go way beyond what you expect to receive from an insurance brokerage. Equipped with state-of-the-art automation, Western Truck Insurance can provide you with lightning-fast truck insurance quotes, customer service, Insurance certificates, and coverage changes. Contact us today at (800) 937-8785 to learn more!