The victims of truck accidents often report that they regret not being better prepared for what to do at the scene of their Mississippi truck accident.  Many found themselves confused and in shock, and failed to perform tasks that could later have helped their case.  To this end, this list briefly reviews some important steps you should take at the scene of a truck accident.

  1. Stay calm and assist anyone who has been injured: Do not panic if you have been involved in a truck accident.  Assess the situation and make sure you are in a safe location.  If you are in danger of being further injured, move your vehicle to the nearest safe location if you are able to do so.  Look to see if anyone has been seriously injured in the crash.  Immediately call 911 to obtain assistance for the injured crash victims. Do not move injured passengers as you could add to their injuries.
  2. Call the police: Even if no one has been seriously injured, you should contact the police so that a police report is generated.  This report can prove vital to your later claim.
  3. Document your injuries: It often takes some time for serious injuries to become apparent following a crash.  Write down any pain or injuries you are experiencing in the aftermath of the accident.  If you were carrying passengers, instruct them to do the same.
  4. Take down as much information as possible:  You should attempt to document all you can about the crash so if there is a dispute later on concerning the facts, you have detailed information to back up your position.  Errors can also appear in the police report, which your documentation could refute.  If possible, make note of the following:
    • A list of injuries to all passengers
    • The location of the accident
    • The time, road conditions, weather conditions, and direction of the other vehicles
    • A description of how the accident occurred
    • Damage to all vehicles involved
    • Write down statements made by any other drivers, passengers, or witnesses
    • The names, drivers license information, insurance information, phone number, and address of all other parties
    • The name, phone number, and badge number of all police officers involved
    • Your observations as to whether drugs or alcohol or driver distraction played a role in the crash
  1. Photograph the scene: If you have a camera or cell phone camera, photograph the scene of the accident.  Photograph any skid marks, damage to vehicles, injuries, etc.
  2. Cooperate with the police but do not discuss fault before talking to an accident attorney:  Do not speak to anyone besides the police and your truck accident attorney about the accident.  Provide the police with the information they request concerning the crash but do not make statements about liability without consulting with your attorney first.

Barrett Law PLLC: Mississippi Truck Accident Attorneys Obtaining You Justice

Being involved in a truck accident is a frightening experience, likely leaving you in shock, injured, and unclear as to what actions you should take.  The Mississippi Truck Accident Attorneys at Barrett Law PLLC hope that this guide will help you be prepared in the event of a crash.  As soon as possible after your truck accident, contact the experienced truck accident attorneys at Barrett Law PLLC.  We will immediately begin investigating and gathering evidence to support your claim, seeking a full recovery for the injuries you sustained.  For legal assistance of unmatched excellence, call Barrett Law PLLC today at 1 (601) 790-1505.