No matter how safe a driver you are, an accident can happen at any time. Trucking accidents tend to be more complicated than car accidents due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, as well as their cargo. If you’ve been involved in a trucking accident, it is important to know what steps to take afterward.
What Causes Most Semi-Truck Accidents?
The vast majority of trucking accidents occur due to one or more factors: driver error, mechanical failure, hazardous road conditions, weather, and/or cargo loading issues. Truck drivers can sometimes be subject to long hours on the road with inadequate rest periods which can contribute to human errors. Additionally, negligent maintenance or improper loading of a vehicle can cause dangerous situations on the road.Steps to Take After a Trucking Accident
Trucking accidents can be traumatic and difficult to process, especially if this is your first accident. In the midst of all the confusion, it is important to remember that there are several steps you should take after an accident.Obtain Medical Assitance
The safety of all involved parties should always be a priority. If you have been injured in a trucking accident, make sure to seek medical attention immediately. This will not only ensure that your injuries are taken care of promptly and properly but also provide an official record if you decide to pursue legal action in the future.Gather Evidence and Insurance Information
It is important to gather as much evidence and information at the scene of the accident. While it may be hard to think clearly in such a traumatic event, it is important to take notes from witnesses, including contact and insurance information. Take pictures that can help support your case if you decide to file a claim for damages or pain and suffering.Converse with Police and Insurance Companies
When the police arrive, provide an accurate and detailed account of what happened. Do not offer any opinions or assumptions, just the facts. Also, contact your insurance company to file a claim as soon as possible. During this time, be careful when speaking with other insurance companies involved in the accident; it is best to have an attorney give advice on how to handle conversations with insurance companies.Hire a Trucking Accident Attorney
A trucking accident can be an incredibly complex situation and the laws surrounding such cases may vary depending on the state. Having an experienced trucking accident attorney is essential in order to ensure that your rights are protected and all parties involved are held accountable. They can help guide you through the legal process, build a strong case for you, fight for maximum compensation for damages, and negotiate with insurance companies.Potential Truck Accident Injuries
Trucking accidents can lead to a variety of injuries. These may include broken bones, lacerations, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord damage, whiplash, and more. Depending on the extent of the injuries sustained as well as any long-term effects they may cause, victims of trucking accidents are entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other damages caused by the accident.Truck Accident Attorney Services in South Carolina
At Cummings and Lewis, we understand the complexity of trucking accidents and how difficult it can be to navigate all of the legal processes involved. Our experienced attorneys will provide you with the support that you need during this challenging time. We are dedicated to making sure that your rights are fully protected and fighting for maximum compensation in order to ensure that you get the justice you deserve. Contact us today to receive a free consultation and learn how we can help with your trucking accident case in South Carolina.
With 50+ years of combined legal experience, the attorneys at Cummings & Lewis, LLC represent people who need legal assistance. Our size, experience, and legal knowledge allow us to represent people who face all sorts of legal concerns in state and federal courts.