Immediate Steps to Take After a Truck Accident
Accidents involving trucks can be incredibly daunting due to these vehicles' sheer size and weight. Whether it’s a big rig, 18-wheeler, or any other large truck, the consequences of an accident can be severe. Knowing what steps to take immediately after a truck accident can protect your health and legal rights.
1: Ensure Safety and Call for Help
Your safety is paramount. If possible, move to a safe location and call 911 to report the accident. Medical and law enforcement personnel should be on the scene to assist with injuries and document the incident.
While waiting for help, document the scene by taking photos of the vehicles involved, license plates, and any visible injuries or property damage. Gathering contact and insurance information from the truck driver and any witnesses is also crucial.
2. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine initially, getting a medical evaluation as soon as possible is essential. Some injuries, like spinal cord injuries, may not show symptoms immediately. A thorough medical examination will document any injuries sustained and provide a clear record of your case.
3. Notify Your Insurance Company
After addressing initial safety and health concerns, inform your insurance provider about the accident. However, avoid giving a detailed statement until you consult a personal injury attorney.
Insurance companies may attempt to minimize or deny claims, especially in large truck accidents, making legal representation vital. If you are unsure how to notify your insurance company, speak with your attorney before calling.
4. Seek Counsel from a Personal Injury Attorney Experienced in Truck Accidents
Consulting with a personal injury attorney experienced in truck accident cases, like ours at Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter, P.A., can help you understand your legal rights and options. Our firm is ready to guide you through the claims process, assist in gathering evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and potentially bring a civil suit if you decide this is the right path.
Catastrophic Injuries in Truck Accidents
Accidents involving large trucks often result in catastrophic injuries due to their size and mass. These injuries can drastically alter a victim’s life.
Catastrophic injuries refer to those that result in permanent disability or disfigurement, such as traumatic brain injuries, limb amputations, and severe burns. These injuries often lead to significant changes in employment, mobility, and personal care needs.
In Florida, catastrophic injury claims often involve substantial damages and require expert testimony and detailed documentation. Victims of negligence may pursue compensation for present and future medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and diminished quality of life.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are a common type of catastrophic injury associated with truck accidents. Symptoms can vary from mild discomfort to complete paralysis, which might not be immediately apparent after the accident. For this reason, we encourage anyone involved in a serious truck accident to seek medical care as soon as possible, even if you initially feel fine.
Common spinal cord injuries include:
- Herniated discs
- Fractures
- Paraplegia
- Quadriplegia
The financial impact of treating serious medical conditions like spinal cord injuries, including surgeries, physical therapy, and long-term care, can be daunting. Spinal cord injuries often lead to permanent disability, affecting the injured victim's ability to work and enjoy life fully.
If you or a loved one suffered a spinal cord or other catastrophic injury in a trucking accident, seeking counsel from a seasoned attorney is encouraged. You may be entitled to compensation.
Contact Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter, P.A. online to schedule a consultation with our team.