An accident can be both overwhelming and costly. One involving a truck can be even more worrying as you know that trucking companies usually have legal advice available at their discretion. However, this is not always the case, and the best advice is to remain calm, take some deep breaths, and call on the best lawyer you can afford. Luckily, when it comes to truck accident lawyers, the majority of companies are hired on a contingency basis. It means that the attorney is only paid if they win money as damages for your case. This makes it possible for anyone to hire the best legal representation.

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What to Do First

The most important thing to do first at the scene of an accident is to seek medical treatment. Check on the health and safety of all involved. Call 911, or ask someone close by to do so on your behalf. For improved visibility, make sure your engine is turned off, your hazard lights are turned on, and road flares are lit. Get to safety but do not leave the scene of the accident. 

Find a Truck Accident Lawyer Fast

As soon as possible, you need to contact a truck accident lawyer. You will need to collect and exchange information from all persons involved: drivers and passengers alike. Depending on the nature of injuries sustained, it may be advisable with trucking accidents to rely on your lawyer to collect this vital information. You will need full names and contact details, insurance company name and policy number, driver’s license number, vehicle license plate number, the type, model, and color of the vehicle, time of day, traffic and weather conditions, and the location of the accident. 

Make a note of any other road dangers or pertinent information, such as the fact that you’re in a construction zone. Write down the names and badge numbers of the responding officers when they arrive. If you are in a position to begin collating this information then make a start, but otherwise allow your lawyer to perform a prompt investigation of the scene. 

They are experienced in preserving vital information, taking photographs, and witness statements. Evidence is often lost, misplaced, or destroyed so the sooner you engage with a lawyer the better. This will in turn save you money in the long run as you will have the expertise backing you already from the start. 

There should be no costs upfront so ensure you make the decision based on expertise and experience. 

Physical Evidence

Your lawyer will also make records about skid marks, accident debris, and any fluid stains on the scene. They know how to call upon motor carrier records and safety logs. They can obtain the “black box” data, which contains crucial information about how and why the collision occurred. Each case is unique as there could be multiple areas of blame at play. The truck driver, the transportation company, the owner of the truck, the facility responsible for loading the truck, or the entity responsible for the contents of the truck could all be responsible in some way. This is not something you want to take on all alone, so your truck accident lawyer has a team of experts and investigators including engineers, medical professionals, and accident reconstructionists who are ready to make the most of your particular case and claim. Do not make any statements to the trucking company or their insurance carriers without consulting your lawyer. This could cost you in the long run. 

Injuries sustained in trucking accidents can be life-threatening with costs running into exorbitant figures. The sheer size and weight of trucks can amount to deadly damage in accidents and your insurance may not cover all your expenses. Allow an experienced lawyer to review your case for free, enabling you to afford the best representation no matter your budget restraints.