What To Do If You’re In A Truck Accident

Commercial trucks are large, heavy-duty vehicles that can cause severe damage to a passenger car. The moments after a truck accident can be frightening and disorienting—but they are also the most crucial to a future lawsuit. If you are the victim of an Oregon truck accident, take the following steps to preserve evidence, get to safety, and seek the help you need.

#1: Call 911

The first action you should take after a truck accident is to assess your condition and the condition of your passengers. While it is important to collect evidence, it is important to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Immediately after the collision, call 911 and report the accident to law enforcement. The police and emergency medical services will arrive at the scene. If you are able, speak to the officer and ask for his or her information so you can find the report at a later date. This report will provide valuable evidence for your case.

#2: Seek Medical Attention

You should always seek medical attention after a truck accident, even if you do not feel hurt. You or your passengers may have suffered injuries that may not appear for hours after the crash. If you do not seek medical attention as soon as possible after the accident, it can be difficult to prove that your injuries are accident-related, harming your future claim.

As soon as you are able, go to the hospital and save all records related to your injuries and treatment. A full medical evaluation will provide valuable evidence in your case, establishing the extent and nature of your injuries.

#3: Document Evidence at the Scene

Evidence is freshest in the moments after a truck accident. If you are able to move around the scene without further injury or danger, take the following steps to preserve evidence while waiting for the police to arrive.

• Take photographs of any visible injuries that you may have. Photograph any property damage you sustained, including damage to your vehicle. Make sure to take as many pictures from as many angles as possible.
• Take photographs of the accident scene. Make sure to capture any debris on the road, the at-fault driver’s truck, and any traffic signs or signals in the area. Ensure that you capture these pictures from multiple angles.
• If any witnesses are present at the scene, ask them for their contact information. These witnesses could provide valuable testimony in your claim. Make sure to gather their names, phone numbers, and addresses. If you are unable to speak to witnesses at the scene, the police report will likely contain their information.
• Exchange information with the at-fault driver. Keep your conversation brief and do not admit anything about the accident or your injuries. Make sure to gather his or her name, contact information, license details, and employer information.

#5: Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer

After you receive medical attention for your accident, a representative from an insurance company or the driver’s employer may contact you. It is very important to decline to speak with these individuals until you contact an attorney. Anything you say at this stage could harm your future case and potential settlement.

Hiring a truck accident lawyer can provide numerous benefits for your lawsuit. An attorney can represent you during negotiations, gather evidence from the trucking company, and consult with expert witnesses who can provide testimony on your behalf. As soon as possible following the accident, contact an Portland delivery truck accident lawyer to discuss your legal options.