What to Do After a Tractor-Trailer Accident
If you were injured in a Fayetteville truck accident, find help navigating your claim. Let a truck accident lawyer from Niblock Law Firm take on the burden of pursuing the settlement you’re entitled to. We understand what you’re going through and the complexities of each truck accident case. Here are some simple tips to protect your rights:
1. Move to Safety
If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location off the roadway. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers and stay away from active lanes of traffic. If you or others are seriously injured and moving is risky, stay put and wait for emergency responders.
2. Notify Law Enforcement
Call 911 and complete an official accident report. This is an important piece of evidence for your claim. Wait for officers to arrive, give an accurate account, and get the responding officer’s name and badge number. Avoid admitting fault or speculating about the cause at the scene.
3. Document the Scene
Take photos of the accident scene and any damage or injuries. Capture all vehicles involved, skid marks, road conditions, traffic signs, and debris. Note the time, weather, and lighting conditions. If nearby businesses have surveillance cameras, make a note of their locations.
4. Collect Driver and Truck Information
Make sure to get the driver’s name, license plate number, employer, and insurance. Also record the trucking company’s DOT number, the carrier’s insurance policy number, and the driver’s CDL class. Ask whether the driver has a logbook. Hours-of-service violations are a common cause of accidents.
5. Gather Witness Contact Information
Gather contact information from any eyewitnesses. Ask bystanders or nearby drivers for their name and phone number, and note the make, model, and plate of any witness vehicles. Do this promptly, as witnesses tend to leave the scene quickly.
6. Seek Medical Care Immediately
Seek medical care as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. Some injuries take hours or days to appear. Accept treatment from paramedics at the scene, visit an ER or urgent care the same day, and save all medical bills, prescriptions, and doctor’s notes. These document your damages.
7. Speak With Niblock Law Firm’s Truck Accident Team
Consult with a qualified attorney before signing any documents or accepting a settlement. Insurance companies often offer fast, low settlements. An experienced truck accident lawyer ensures you receive the full compensation you may deserve.