Anyone who spends any time on Mississippi’s roads knows that many people are driving big rigs for a living. If you drive a commercial vehicle, you know that its massive weight has the potential to cause serious harm in the unfortunate event of an accident. But what should you do if you are injured in a crash while you are driving a truck for a living?
If you have been injured in a trucking accident, you will need to have experienced counsel help you attain your fair share of compensation for your loss of income and injury. Barrett Law has the experience to help you if you have been injured. Contact us now at (601) 790-1505.
Essential Steps to Take if You Are Injured in an Accident
Call the Police—Whenever an accident occurs, set out flares, move away from the accident scene, and call the police. They are important for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, they can make sure the scene is safe and that anyone who requires medical attention gets it. Second, if you require medical care, the police will call in EMT’s to assess your injuries. Finally, the police will usually take pictures and measurements to document the accident site. Both the documentation of your injuries and the crash site will be vital if you have to make a personal injury claim later.
It is important to be treated by EMT’s even if you feel unhurt. You are likely in shock and are unable to judge whether you are hurt or not. Even if you are unhurt at that moment, you will want the EMT’s report to serve as a baseline if a medical condition develops later.
Take Pictures—If you are physically able, take as many pictures as possible of the crash scene. If your camera has a time stamp feature, use it. When taking pictures, be sure to get clear photos of the entire crash site, including skid marks and debris that has disconnected from your truck. If possible, take pictures so that there is an object in the frame such as a fire hydrant or guardrail to provide scale.
Gather Witness Information—While the police may get the names of witnesses, you should not leave that up to them. Get the names and contact information of all witnesses. Note that they are continuing to be a witness when you speak to them. By that I mean that you should speak to them in a calm, level-headed manner; if you come across as wild or out of control, that perception may play into how they portray the accident and your injuries later.
Call Your Employer or Contractor—Contact the trucking company you drive for immediately. Remember that “whatever you say may be used against you” later—stick to the facts. Avoid taking any blame for the accident, as until a thorough investigation occurs there is no way of knowing what or who caused the accident.
Preserve All Records, Photos, and Documents—If you have been injured, the trucking company that employs you will likely try to shift blame to you, claiming that you had not gotten enough sleep or that you were distracted. In this situation, maintaining all driving records, photos, and log books will be critical to show that you did not cause your injuries.
What Should You Do If You or a Loved One Has Been Injured in a Trucking Accident?
If you or a loved one was injured in a trucking accident, you might have a viable claim for compensation for your injuries, loss of work, and other losses. Let experienced counsel take care of preserving medical records, attaining expert diagnoses, and dealing with your employer’s attorneys. These are important tasks that a personal injury attorney can handle for you while you concentrate on healing.
