What to Do After a Truck Accident in Greensboro, North Carolina

Truck accidents are among the most devastating and life-altering events on our roads. The immense size and weight of commercial trucks, coupled with factors such as driver fatigue, mechanical failures, and blind spots, can lead to catastrophic collisions that cause severe injuries, extensive property damage, and even fatalities. In the blink of an eye, victims may find themselves facing a long, painful recovery process, mounting medical bills, and the inability to work or enjoy life as they once did.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident due to the negligence of the other driver, you may feel overwhelmed, confused, and unsure of what to do next. The decisions you make in the aftermath of the accident can have a significant impact on your ability to protect your rights, recover compensation for your losses, and navigate the complex legal process that often follows.

In this blog post, we’ll explain what to do after a truck accident. From ensuring your safety and gathering evidence to notifying the police and contacting an experienced attorney, we’ll cover what you need to know to safeguard your interests during this challenging time. We’ll also discuss common pitfalls to avoid that could jeopardize your case.

Defining a Truck Accident

When we talk about a truck accident in the context of this blog, we’re referring to accidents involving large commercial trucks, such as semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, 18-wheelers, tanker trucks, and other heavy-duty vehicles used for transporting goods.

These trucks are significantly larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, often weighing 20-30 times more. As a result, accidents involving these vehicles can be particularly devastating, causing severe injuries, property damage, and even fatalities.

If You’re Seriously Injured

If you’ve sustained serious injuries in the truck accident and are unable to follow the steps outlined below, don’t worry. Your health and well-being should always be the top priority. If you’re able, call 911 or ask someone else to do so on your behalf. If you’re unable to gather information or speak with the police due to your injuries, focus on receiving the medical attention you need. Your attorney can work on gathering evidence and building your case while you concentrate on your recovery.

Ensure Your Safety

If you’re involved in a truck accident, your first priority should be ensuring your safety and the safety of others involved. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location, such as the shoulder of the road or a nearby parking lot.

Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries and call 911 if anyone requires medical attention. If you’re unable to move your vehicle, remain inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives, unless it’s unsafe to do so (e.g., if there’s a fire or the vehicle is in a dangerous position).

Gather Information

Once you’ve ensured everyone’s safety, start gathering information about the accident. Exchange information with the truck driver, including their name, contact details, insurance information, and the name of their employer. It’s also essential to obtain the truck’s license plate number, the driver’s commercial driver’s license (CDL) number, and the DOT number of the trucking company.

Take photos of the damage to both vehicles, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information as well. This information will be crucial when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.

Notify the Police

According to North Carolina law, you are legally required to report most accidents to the appropriate law enforcement agency. The local police department should be contacted if the accident occurred within a town or municipality, while the county police department should be notified if the accident took place outside city limits.

Reportable accidents include those resulting in over $1,000 in property damage or any physical injuries. Due to the increasing costs of vehicle repairs, it can be difficult to determine whether the damage exceeds $1,000. To err on the side of caution, it’s best to report any accident involving damage to the police.

Failing to report an accident as required by law can result in a misdemeanor charge. Additionally, your insurance company may require a police accident report to process your claim. To avoid legal complications and ensure proper documentation, always contact law enforcement from the accident scene when possible, rather than trying to judge whether an accident is minor enough to forgo reporting.

Even if the accident seems minor, it’s crucial to contact the police. They will create an official report of the incident, which can be valuable when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action. The police report will document the accident’s details, including the location, time, weather conditions, and any citations issued. When speaking with the police, stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault or apologizing, as this could be used against you later. If you’re unsure about any details, simply state that you don’t know or can’t remember.

Seek Medical Attention

Though you might not feel injured immediately after the accident, it’s important to seek medical attention. Some injuries, such as whiplash, concussions, or internal bleeding, may not be apparent right away. Adrenaline and shock can mask pain and symptoms, making it difficult to assess your condition accurately.

A medical professional can properly assess your condition and provide documentation of any injuries, which can be essential for insurance claims and legal proceedings. Follow your doctor’s advice and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and to demonstrate the severity of your injuries.

Contact a Truck Accident Attorney

Truck accident cases can be complex, involving multiple parties and substantial damages. The trucking company, their insurance provider, and their legal team will likely start working on their defense immediately after the accident.

To level the playing field and protect your rights, it’s advisable to contact experienced truck accident attorneys in Greensboro, North Carolina. An attorney can communicate with insurance companies on your behalf, gather evidence to support your case, and work to secure the compensation you may be eligible for. They can also help you navigate the complex legal process, ensuring that you meet all deadlines and requirements.

What Not to Do After a Truck Accident

Just as important as knowing what to do after a truck accident is knowing what not to do. Here are a few things to avoid:

1. Don’t leave the scene of the accident before exchanging information and speaking with the police, as this could be considered a hit-and-run.
2. Don’t admit fault or apologize for the accident, as this can be used against you in legal proceedings, even if you believe you may have contributed to the accident.
3. Don’t neglect to seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and delaying treatment could harm your health and your legal case.
4. Don’t speak with the truck driver’s insurance company before consulting with an attorney, as they may try to minimize your claim or get you to say something that could harm your case. Let your attorney handle these communications.
5. Don’t post about the accident on social media, as this information could be used to discredit your claim. Insurance companies and defense attorneys may use your posts to argue that your injuries are less severe than claimed.
6. Don’t accept a settlement offer without consulting an attorney, as initial offers are often much lower than what you may be eligible for. An experienced attorney can negotiate on your behalf to pursue a fair settlement.

By following these guidelines and working with an experienced truck accident attorney, you can protect your rights and pursue the compensation you may be eligible for after a truck accident in Greensboro, North Carolina. Remember, the actions you take in the aftermath of a truck accident can significantly impact your ability to recover damages, so it’s essential to be informed and cautious throughout the process.

Get the Legal Help You Need After a Truck Accident in Greensboro

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident due to the negligence of the other driver, the road ahead may seem daunting. You’re likely facing significant physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial strain. In the most tragic cases, you may have lost a loved one due to the negligence of a truck driver. During this challenging time, it’s crucial to have a strong legal team on your side, fighting for your rights and pursuing the compensation necessary to rebuild your life.

At ER Law Trial Lawyers, our experienced Greensboro personal injury lawyers are dedicated to providing you with the personalized attention, unwavering support, and aggressive legal representation you need. We understand the devastating impact a truck accident can have on your life, and we’re committed to helping you hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions.

When you choose our firm to handle your case, you gain a tireless advocate who will work diligently to protect your interests. We’ll thoroughly investigate the accident, gather essential evidence, and build a compelling case on your behalf. Our attorneys will handle all communications with insurance companies, ensure you receive the medical care you need, and fight for the maximum compensation allowable under the law. If you’ve lost a loved one in a truck accident, we’ll pursue a wrongful death claim to help your family find justice and secure the financial support necessary to move forward.

There’s no need to waste your valuable time searching online for a “truck wreck lawyer near me.” Contact ER Law Trial Lawyers instead at (336) 290-6481 or visit us online to schedule your free consultation. During this meeting, we’ll listen to your story, evaluate your case, and discuss your legal options. Together, we’ll develop a tailored strategy to pursue the compensation you need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can begin fighting for you and your family. Let us be your voice during this difficult time.

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The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.

ER Law Trial Lawyers
1931 Richardson Drive
Reidsville, NC 27320
(336) 290-6481
https://erlaw-nc.com/