When it comes to automobile-truck accidents, the automobile almost always comes out on the losing end. This is simply because the average car weighs 4,000 pounds while the average semi-truck weighs 80,000 pounds. It is obviously best to try to avoid any kind of accident, but if you happen to tangle with an 18 wheeler, then here are a few tips about what to do.
Contact the Police
Make sure you call the police from the collision scene. The police will document the accident, issue tickets if necessary and produce a police report. This report is useful in that it contains the trucker’s contact information, witness contact information and an official summary about what caused the accident. You will need this police report when you file a claim with your insurance company.
Take Pictures
Use your phone to document the scene. Take pictures or a video of the truck, the damage to your vehicle, any skid marks, the road conditions or anything else that you think will help prove that the truck driver caused the accident.
Get Contact Information
Although the police report should contain the contact information of the truck driver and the witnesses, you should also get that information, just to be safe. This information includes not only the truck driver’s name and phone number but also his employer’s name and the name of his employer’s insurance company.
Seek Medical Care
If you are injured, then you should seek immediate medical care. he police may call an ambulance if they feel your injuries warrant it. Even if you do not suffer visible injuries, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Doing so documents your concern about being injured in the accident. Make sure you keep records of all medical visits.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company about the accident. Even if you do not plan to file a claim, notifying your insurer preserves your right to file a claim at a later date. For example, if you have collision coverage, then you might get your car repaired sooner by filing a claim than by waiting on the trucker’s insurance company.
Contact an Accident Attorney
The trucker’s insurance company will want to settle with you, probably for much less than you deserve. An experienced Los Angeles car accident attorney can help you negotiate a larger settlement and ensure that all of your rights are protected.
If you have been injured in a truck accident, then please contact us. Our team is standing by to help you get the compensation you deserve.
