Truck accidents can be especially frightening, given the significant difference in size between trucks and regular vehicles. From property damage to significant injuries, and even fatalities, truck accidents are almost always serious with severe consequences.
Unfortunately, truck accidents have increased across the U.S. in the last few years. Truck crashes are especially a concern in states like Connecticut that rely on big rigs for cargo shipments. 85.8% of the community in Connecticut counts on trucks to move their goods.
Even more unfortunate is that many of these accidents are preventable and caused by, among other things, distracted driving, driving under the influence, and driver’s fatigue. If you’ve also been a part of such an unfortunate event, you can contact an experienced Connecticut truck accident lawyer and recover compensation for physical, mental, and financial damages.
What you do after the truck accident will significantly impact your case. You want to do things correctly, which means following the next steps.
1. Stay Put
Connecticut law requires every driver involved in an accident that causes death, physical injury, and property damage to stay at the scene. Any driver who fails to stop and render assistance may attract hit-and-run charges. So, stop your vehicle, check yourself and other passengers for injuries, and get out of your car.
2. Call for Help
Injuries, grievous or otherwise, are common in truck accidents. Call 911 and have the dispatcher send emergency responders and police units to the accident scene. Be sure to let the dispatcher know how many people are involved in the crash and if there are any serious injuries so they can send the required ambulances.
The police will investigate the crash scene and prepare a report. The report includes the accident details, drivers’ statements, witness statements, photos, diagrams, and citations. It’s a crucial document when filing an insurance claim or a lawsuit.
3. Get Medical Attention
Even if you don’t think you’re injured, allow the emergency medical team to do a medical evaluation. After all, many injuries in truck crashes may not manifest until hours or even days after the accident.
For a complete evaluation and medical report, visit the hospital and see a doctor. The doctor will check for internal bleeding, soft tissue injuries, whiplash, and other injuries with delayed symptoms.
Don’t wait too long to see a doctor. This isn’t just for the benefit of your health and wellness, but also, waiting too long allows the other driver’s insurance company to dispute that your physical trauma is not from the truck accident.
4. Gather Evidence
Do your best to gather as much evidence as possible at the crash scene. Take pictures and videos of the vehicle damage and accident scene. Clear close-ups of scattered vehicle parts and skid marks are great. Also, take photos of bruises, cuts, swelling, and other immediate injuries.
Also, don’t forget to compile notes on recollection of the accident. Better to do it while your memory is still fresh. In addition to the events of the accident, note down other crucial details, such as the weather conditions and the badge numbers of the responding officers. Also, note down witness statements, and take their contact information.
5. Exchange Information with the Truck Driver
Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver before you leave the crash scene. You should also ask for the truck number and name of the trucking company. A truck accident lawyer may be able to establish liability of the trucking company liable if the driver is employed.
6. Watch What You Say
As overwhelming as the aftermath of a truck accident may be, do your best to keep your cool and watch your statements. Being hostile and lashing out angrily at the other driver will not help your case. Don’t apologize or admit to any fault in the accident.
It’s best to avoid discussing any facts of the accident with others at the crash scene and even after you leave. This includes not posting accident details on social media, be it pictures from the location or your physical and emotional condition. What you say can and will most likely be used against you, so it’s best to avoid saying anything altogether.
7. Talk to a Truck Accident Lawyer
You need a passionate truck accident lawyer to fight for your rights and deal with tactful insurers. Truck accidents are complicated because they typically involve multiple parties, including the driver, trucking firm, parts manufacturer, and loader.
Moreover, there are many federal and state regulations governing the trucking industry. An experienced truck accident lawyer understands all the dynamics and will fight for your maximum compensation.
In Connecticut, you have two years after a truck accident to file an insurance claim for compensation (Connecticut General Statutes § 52-284).
Content provided by The Weekly Driver News Services and additional news sources.
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