12 Steps to Take If You Were In a Minor Semi-Truck Accident Today

Imagine you’re driving home, and suddenly, you’re involved in a minor semi-truck accident. It’s unexpected and unsettling.

Even minor crashes with a semi-truck can be complex and daunting. Knowing the proper steps to take immediately can affect the outcome of your situation.

At Sweet Lawyers, we guide clients through the aftermath of semi-truck accidents. Our experience as truck accident attorneys in California, Washington, Colorado, and Phoenix, Arizona, has equipped us to handle even the most intricate cases.

Read on to discover the 13 critical steps to take if you find yourself in a semi-truck accident today.

1. Check For Injuries

In the aftermath of a semi-truck accident, your first step should always be to check for injuries. Start with yourself, assessing if you have sustained any injuries, no matter how minor they may seem. 

After ensuring your safety, check on the well-being of passengers in your vehicle and other parties involved in the accident. It’s crucial to remember that even minor crashes can lead to injuries that might not be immediately apparent. 

It’s imperative to call 911 for medical assistance right away. Emergency responders can provide the necessary medical attention; their reports will also serve as valuable documentation if you need to make any insurance or legal claims.

2. Move to Safety

If it’s safe, move your vehicle to a secure location nearby, such as a shoulder or a parking lot. This is important in semi-truck accidents to avoid obstructing traffic and to prevent any potential secondary accidents caused by disabled vehicles blocking the roadway. 

However, ensure you only do this if it’s safe and legal. In some jurisdictions, you may be required to leave your vehicle until the police arrive. Turning on your hazard lights can alert other drivers to your presence and help prevent further accidents.

3. Call the Police

Regardless of the accident’s severity, it is a legal requirement in most places to report a road traffic accident to the police. This is especially important in semi-truck accidents due to the potential for significant damage and injury. 

When the police arrive, they will document the scene, take statements from all parties involved, and compile a report. This police report is an essential piece of evidence for insurance claims and any legal purposes. It provides an objective account of the accident, which can be crucial in establishing what happened and determining liability.

4. Exchange Information

After ensuring everyone’s safety and calling the police, exchange information with the truck driver. Obtain their full name, contact information, insurance details, and the name of the trucking company they represent. Also, if possible, note the truck’s license plate number and any identifying details about the truck, such as the make and model. 

This information is crucial for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings. It’s important to remain calm and courteous during this exchange and avoid discussing fault or details of the accident, as these statements could be used in any subsequent legal proceedings.

5. Document the Scene

Documenting the scene of a semi-truck accident is a critical step that should not be overlooked. Use your smartphone or camera to take comprehensive photographs of the accident site from various angles. Focus on capturing images of the vehicles involved, highlighting any visible damage to your vehicle and the semi-truck. 

Also, photograph the surrounding area, including road conditions, skid marks, street signs, and traffic signals, as these can provide context to how the accident occurred. If there were any environmental factors like poor lighting or adverse weather conditions, document these as well. 

Additionally, if any debris or marks on the road are relevant to the accident, include photos of these. This visual evidence can be vital for your claim, helping to establish the facts and demonstrating the extent of damage and the circumstances under which the accident occurred.

6. Collect Witness Information

Witnesses can play a crucial role in a truck accident lawsuit. If there are bystanders who saw the accident occur, approach them and politely ask for their contact information, including their names, phone numbers, and addresses. 

If they are willing, ask them to describe what they saw. A third-party perspective can provide an unbiased account of the accident, which can be extremely valuable in establishing the facts of the case. 

Witness statements can sometimes be the deciding factor in insurance claims or legal disputes, especially in cases where the fault is contested. Remember to thank witnesses for their help and let them know that the insurance company or attorney might contact them for a more formal statement.

7. Seek Out Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine immediately after a semi-truck accident, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is crucial. Some injuries, especially those related to whiplash or internal trauma, may not be immediately apparent and can take hours or even days to manifest. 

Visit a healthcare professional for a thorough check-up. Explain that you’ve been involved in a semi-truck accident and describe any discomfort, no matter how minor it seems. 

Ensure that your visit and any subsequent treatments are well-documented. Medical records are essential in providing evidence of the accident’s impact on your health. 

These records can prove invaluable when filing for insurance claims or if legal action is necessary. They provide a documented link between the accident and your injuries.

8. Inform Your Insurance Company

After the semi-truck accident, you must contact your insurance company immediately. When reporting the accident, provide them with the basic facts, including the date, time, location, and a brief description of what occurred. 

It’s important to be factual and concise in your communication. Avoid making any admissions of fault or speculating about the causes of the accident. Be aware that your initial conversation with the insurance company may be recorded, and any statements you make could impact your claim. 

Also, refrain from providing a detailed account or discussing injuries until you have consulted with a truck accident attorney. This is because legal professionals can guide you in communicating effectively with your insurer to protect your interests.

9. Keep a Record of Everything

Keep a detailed record of all medical visits, treatments, and medications related to injuries from the accident. Make sure to save all medical bills, receipts, and insurance co-payments. 

Additionally, if the accident has caused you to miss work, keep a record of lost wages, including the number of hours or days missed and any relevant correspondence with your employer regarding your absence. 

These records are vital for insurance claims and may also be crucial if you pursue a legal claim. Detailed documentation provides a clear and comprehensive picture of the financial and personal impact of the accident, which is essential for obtaining fair compensation.

10. Be Cautious With Insurance Adjusters

Following the semi-truck accident, insurance adjusters may contact you for a statement. These adjusters represent the insurance company’s interests, and their primary goal is to minimize the company’s liability and payouts. 

Therefore, speaking with a truck accident attorney before providing any detailed information or formal statement to an adjuster is advisable. An attorney experienced in truck accidents can advise you on what information to disclose and how to articulate it in a way that protects your rights. 

11. Consider Hiring a Lawyer

An attorney specializing in semi-truck accidents can provide crucial guidance and representation, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the legal process. They can help interpret the laws specific to semi-truck accidents, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests in court if necessary. 

In cases where liability is disputed, or the insurance settlement offer seems inadequate, having a lawyer can make a significant difference. They are adept at gathering and presenting evidence, consulting experts, and building a solid case to advocate on your behalf. 

Remember, a skilled attorney can help you navigate the legal system and increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for damages and injuries.

12. Follow Up on Your Claim

Be sure to stay proactive in monitoring the progress of your claim. Check in with your insurance company to ensure the processing of your claim.

Keep detailed records of all correspondences, including phone calls, emails, and letters, as these can be important if there are any disputes or delays. Make sure that all your damages and losses are documented and submitted. This documentation includes immediate damages, medical expenses, and any long-term impacts, such as ongoing treatment costs, rehabilitation expenses, and lost earning capacity if your injuries affect your ability to work. 

If you encounter any challenges or delays or feel that the compensation offered is inadequate, discuss these concerns with your lawyer. They can assist in negotiations and address all aspects of your claim.

Successfully Managing a Semi-Truck Accident Today

Navigating the aftermath of a semi-truck accident requires careful attention to detail and a proactive approach.

If you’ve been involved in a semi-truck accident today, following these steps is crucial to protect your rights and interests. For expert legal assistance and representation in semi-truck accident cases, contact Sweet Lawyers. 

Our experienced team, serving clients across California, Washington, Colorado, and Arizona, is ready to support you through this challenging time and help you achieve a fair resolution. Don’t navigate this complex process alone; let Sweet Lawyers be your guide and advocate.