3 Things To Do After A Truck Accident That Will Affect The Outcome Of Your Injury Claim
Getting injured in an accident involving a commercial truck can be a traumatizing experience. The steps you take after the accident can determine whether you get compensation for the injuries. Therefore, if you haven't been severely injured or need to be rushed to the emergency room, take the following measures to improve the outcome of your injury claim.
Take Pictures of the Scene
In the aftermath of a truck accident, a lot can happen to disrupt the scene. If you are the aggrieved party, it's essential to collect any evidence that will help solidify your case against the truck driver. Take pictures of the scene before other parties interfere with it. Ensure that the photos capture the following information:
- Damage to your car from different angles
- Damage to the commercial truck and other vehicles
- Skid marks and car debris on the road
- Damage to your car interior
- Injuries you sustained from the crash
Photos can help determine the at-fault party, especially if taken before either vehicle is towed away. An accident reconstructor can use the pictures of the crash site to reconstruct the scene and establish liability.
Choose Your Statements Wisely
The confusion arising after an accident can cause someone to make statements that could undermine the injury claim. Below are a few statements that you should avoid after the accident:
- Making guesses about the accident: When giving your statement to the police, don't make any guesses. If you have doubts about something, emphasize that you are unsure. Don't address issues such as your vehicle speed or your alertness as these can affect your case.
- Issuing apologies: It is human nature to apologize to accident victims, even when you are in the right. However, avoid giving verbal apologies, as they can make you look guilty.
- Admitting fault: Do not admit fault to the witnesses or police, even if you were partially liable for the accident. The trucker's insurer can use your statement to deny you compensation.
Choose your words wisely as you speak with witnesses or call family members. If possible, do not discuss liability in the absence of an injury lawyer.
Seek Medical Treatment Immediately
How fast you seek medical treatment can determine your compensation after a truck accident. If you take too long to seek treatment, the truck company's insurance company may downplay your injuries. Therefore, visit a doctor for examination and treatment. Look out for delayed symptoms that may arise days or weeks after an accident. Also, seek the services of a therapist for trauma treatment. Present a detailed medical report together with your injury claim.
Handling a personal injury case after a truck accident can be emotionally taxing. Contact a truck accident attorney immediately for legal assistance.