Injured In A Truck Wreck?

8  Immediate Steps to Take After A Truck Accident.

# Steps to Take After a Truck Wreck

In the aftermath of a personal injury, particularly those involving truck accidents, the path to securing rightful compensation can be very frustrating. As seasoned truck wreck injury attorneys at Polchinski & Smith Law Firm, we understand the overwhelming nature of these circumstances and are here to guide you every step of the way.

1. Make Sure Everyone is Safe AND Seek Medical Attention

The very first priority after a truck accident is your safety and health. If you can move, get to a safe location away from traffic. Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance. Even if you feel fine, it is crucial to undergo a medical examination as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.

Ignoring minor pains or discomfort can lead to severe complications later on. Internal injuries, concussions, and whiplash are common in truck accidents but may not show symptoms immediately. A prompt medical evaluation ensures that any hidden injuries are diagnosed and treated early, preventing further health complications. Additionally, medical records from this initial visit will be a critical part of your personal injury claim.

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2. Document the Scene: Take Plenty of Photos and Video

If your condition allows, document the accident scene thoroughly. Take photographs of the vehicles involved, your injuries, skid marks, road conditions, and any other relevant details. This evidence can be pivotal in building your case later on.

In addition to photos, take notes or record a video detailing what you remember about the accident. This can include the sequence of events, weather conditions, and any statements made by the truck driver or witnesses. This first-hand account can be invaluable in painting a clear picture of the incident, which will aid your lawyer in constructing a strong case.

3. Gather Information

Collect contact information, insurance details, and vehicle registration numbers from all parties involved in the accident. Additionally, obtain contact details from any witnesses who can provide an account of the incident.

Be sure to also gather information:

  • Trucking company’s name
  • Truck’s license plate number
  • Witness statements can be particularly persuasive, so try to get detailed accounts from as many bystanders as possible. Their testimonies can corroborate your version of events and support your claim.
4. Consult a Truck Accident Lawyer with Experience

Engaging an experienced truck accident lawyer is a crucial step in navigating the legal complexities following a truck accident. At Polchinski & Smith, we specialize in such cases, bringing a wealth of expertise to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Our team operates on a contingency fee basis meaning, we have a no upfront fees commitment — you pay only when we win your case.

An experienced truck accident lawyer from our team will guide you through the legal process, from filing initial claims to negotiating settlements or representing you in court. With our firm’s extensive knowledge of state and federal trucking regulations, we will be able to identify any violations that may have contributed to the accident.

5. Preservation of Evidence

Evidence is the cornerstone of any personal injury case. Your assigned lawyer will work to preserve critical evidence, such as the truck’s black box data, driver logs, maintenance records, and any surveillance footage. This evidence will be instrumental in establishing liability and the extent of negligence involved.

Preserving evidence promptly is crucial as it can be tampered with or lost over time. For instance, black box data can provide insights into the truck’s speed, braking patterns, and driver behavior before the crash. Maintenance records can reveal if the truck was in good working condition or if there were any unresolved mechanical issues. We will take swift action to secure this evidence, ensuring it is available when needed.

6. Dealing with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. It is imperative not to provide any statements or sign any documents without consulting your lawyer first. Your Polchinski & Smith truck accident lawyer will handle all communications with the insurance companies, ensuring your rights are protected.

Insurance adjusters may use various tactics to devalue your claim, such as questioning the severity of your injuries or suggesting you were at fault. Having legal representation ensures that any settlement offers are fair and reflect the true extent of your damages. Our law firm is very adept at countering lowball offers and negotiating terms that adequately cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses.

7. Filing a Personal Injury Claim

Your assigned Polchinski & Smith lawyer will guide you through the process of filing a personal injury claim. This involves drafting a demand letter, compiling medical records, and demonstrating the impact of the accident on your life, including physical, emotional, and financial repercussions.

A well-drafted demand letter will clearly outline the facts of the case, the extent of your injuries, and the compensation sought. Medical records and expert testimonies will substantiate your claims, while detailed accounts of your daily struggles can illustrate the non-economic damages you’ve suffered. As a firm we will make sure that every aspect of your suffering is documented and presented compellingly.

8. Medical Documentation

Comprehensive medical documentation is vital in substantiating your injuries and the associated costs. It is critical to keep records of all medical visits, treatments, and prescriptions. Your assigned lawyer will use these records to quantify the extent of your injuries and the necessary compensation.

Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers should be documented to show the ongoing impact of your injuries. Detailed medical reports, including diagnostic tests and treatment plans, will paint a clear picture of your condition. These documents not only validate your claims but also help in projecting future medical needs and expenses.

9. Your Path to Justice

Being injured in a truck accident is a life-altering event, but you do not have to face it alone. At Polchinski & Smith, our dedicated team of truck accident lawyers are here to champion your cause, ensuring justice and accountability prevail. With our expertise and unwavering commitment, we strive to secure the best possible outcomes for our clients.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, do not hesitate to contact us for a consultation. Let us help you and your family navigate this very tough journey of personal injury law and achieve the justice you rightfully deserve.

For further information or to schedule a consultation, please visit our # or contact Polchinski & Smith Law Firm at (555) 123-4567.

If you or a loved one has been injured
in a truck accident,

do not hesitate to contact us for a consultation. Let us help you and your family navigate this very tough journey of personal injury law and achieve the justice you rightfully deserve.

For further information or to schedule a consultation, please visit our office
or contact Polchinski & Smith Law Firm at (555) 123-4567.