No one plans to get into an accident with a big rig. When a situation like this arises, people are often surprised and shocked, leaving them ill-prepared to take appropriate action.
The Prevalence of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents are severe and all too prevalent, becoming increasingly common in recent years. According to the National Safety Council, 5,005 fatal truck accidents occurred in 2019, representing a 43% increase from 2010’s numbers. Additionally, truck accidents account for 10% of all fatal auto accidents, a significant percentage.
Clearly, drivers need to know how to respond if they are in an accident involving a big rig.
What Should You Do?
After a serious big rig accident, you should:
- Make Sure Everyone Is OK: The first priority is to ensure everyone on the scene is okay. Call 911 if anyone seems significantly hurt. Make sure you are taking care of yourself first and foremost. Get medical care.
- Get Critical Information: Assuming you are physically able, gather all the information you can. This includes contact info of other drivers, contact information of witnesses, pictures, license plates, names of the police on hand, etc. All this information could be extremely valuable in court.
- Call a Lawyer: As soon as possible after the accident, talk with an experienced truck accident attorney. A good lawyer can help you build your case and obtain the compensation you need.
Although injuries sustained in an accident could prevent you from following the steps above, they are important to do if you are physically able.
What You Should Not Do
No matter what else you do or say, do not admit fault to the police or talk with your insurance company until you have spoken with an experienced truck accident lawyer.
There is a lot at stake in a truck accident case. Make sure you get the medical care you need, gather any information that might help your case, and secure the help of an experienced attorney on your side as soon as possible.
Truck accidents can lead to complex legal cases involving multiple parties. If you have been involved in a truck accident, it’s important to seek legal advice from an experienced attorney who can help you understand your rights and options. With the right guidance, you can navigate the complex legal landscape and receive the compensation you need to move forward. Contact Glass Robson LLC today for assistance on your case!