How to protect yourself after a Truck Accident
Have you been involved in a truck accident? Well, just like any other accident, it could have been caused by your mistake, poor conditions, or negligence on the part of another motorist. In this case, how do you protect yourself and your rights after such an incident? Yes, the steps you take after the accident can determine whether you will be compensated or not. Therefore you should know what steps to take to protect your health and rights. Let’s highlight some of the critical steps you ought to take.
Move your truck to the side of the road
For starters, if your truck is operational, then move it to the side of the road to clear a way for other motorists. This will protect you from another crash where an inattentive driver could be speeding resulting in a collision with your truck. However, if your truck cannot be driven to the side safely or moving it could result in more injuries, then leave it as it is. A point to note, if it is unclear who caused the accident or the driver at fault denies, then you should leave the truck until authorities get to the accident scene. That said, ensure you put traffic cones or turn on the hazard lights to signal incoming motorists.
Check for injuries and take safety precautions
Check for your safety and that of other passengers while also taking precautions to prevent more injuries or even death. In case of serious injuries, seek help by contacting the police or ambulance services. If moving an injured person results in more harm, let them stay at the place until medics arrive. But in case you smell a gas leaking, its best to move others away as a fire explosion could occur.
Collect Information and Evidence
It’s also essential that you get the other motorist’s contact information, vehicle details, license number and details about their insurance company and policy. Also, take pictures of the vehicles and passengers involved in the crash as well as that of the surrounding area of the scene of the accident to act as evidence. If any, talk to witnesses, get their contact information, let them write what they saw, and convince them to give accounts of what they saw in case contacted.
Contact the authorities
Notify the police authorities about the accident immediately. The police can help you get into a settlement of the matter with the other motorist and file a report that can act as evidence when filing a claim. Additionally, they can contact medics in case there are injuries.
Talk to your insurance company and attorney
Talk to your insurance company and let them know about the accident, and then file the claim for compensation. In case the accident was not your fault, your insurance company can follow with the insurance company of the other motorist depending on the laws where you are.
Frankly, insurance claims and the surrounding laws can be complicated. So, speak to a skilled attorney so as you can know the options you have and your rights. According to a renowned truck accident attorney in Jackson Mississippi, having an experienced legal team will protect your rights and ensure that you are well compensated. Additionally, they will protect you if the other motorist’s insurance company comes after you.
Conclusion
Being knowledgeable about how to protect yourself in case of a truck accident not only enhances your safety but also ensures that you get compensated for any loss. Moreover, you get to know your rights, which safeguard you from being taken advantage of by insurance companies. So follow the tips and ensure you speak to a skilled truck accident attorney to help guide and protect your legal rights after the incident.