WHAT TO DO AFTER A TRUCK ACCIDENT
After a truck accident it is normal to be confused and uncertain on what to do next as it can be devastating and overwhelming for you and your loved ones. If you are like most people, you have no idea where to turn and what to do. The steps you take in the immediate aftermath can greatly assist in your case and protect your legal rights.
We understand that not all these actions may be practically taken. If someone is seriously injured it may not be possible to perform some or all of the following steps suggested as focusing on their health is more important.
RIGHT AFTER THE ACCIDENT
· Call 911 immediately, even if no one appears seriously injured as everyone should be examined by a qualified medical professional. Not all injuries have obvious symptoms.
· Call the police as quickly as possible and get a copy of the police report from the officer(s). Be sure to take down their names and badge numbers of the police officer(s) at the scene.
· Contact your insurance company to report the accident.
· Gather the contact information from everyone involved, all drivers, passengers and possible witnesses, including driver’s license numbers and license plate numbers.
DOCUMENT THE SCENE
· Take pictures with your camera or cell phone and observe the accident scene.
· Take pictures of Vehicle Department of Transportation license number for both the truck and the trailer.
· Take pictures of any skids marks made by the truck, the condition of the truck, trailer tires and all vehicles involved in the accident.
· Write down everything you can remember while it is still fresh in your mind including what happened right before, during and afterward.
WHAT YOU SHOULD NOT DO
· Do not speculate as to what occurred, stick to the facts and do not admit any fault.
· Do not discuss the truck accident with anyone else at the scene, except the police.
· Say as little as possible to the truck driver – do not say “I’m sorry,” as this can be brought up later in a lawsuit.
· Do not discuss the truck accident with the trucking companies’ representatives or insurance provider without your own legal counsel present.
· Do not sign any insurance company waiver or other documents other than the police report without legal representation.
· Do accept any settlement payment.
EXPERIENCED TRUCK ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS
Hopkins, Barvié & Hopkins, P.L.L.C., focuses on representing individuals and their family members in personal injury and wrongful death cases, such as those often involved in truck accidents. Contact us and we will evaluate your case at no cost or obligation. With more than 66 years of combined legal experience, our attorneys offer clients throughout Mississippi the representation they need.
Contact us online or call 228-864-2200 to schedule your free initial consultation with an experienced lawyer.
