According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, passenger vehicle occupants account for at least 68 percent of all truck accident deaths. Those who are lucky enough to survive often face chronic pain, cognitive disabilities, and serious spinal injuries.
These can cost a veritable fortune to treat. In addition to health-care bills, the time off work can put a family’s finances in jeopardy.
If you were injured in a truck crash, you may be entitled to compensation to pay for these losses. A Detroit truck accident lawyer from Christopher Trainor & Associates can evaluate your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim.
Our firm has been representing the injured for more than 20 years. Call 1-800-961-8477 today to schedule a free case evaluation.
Here are five steps you should take immediately after a truck crash:
- Stay Calm
It may seem impossible to remain calm after a truck crash – especially if it causes injuries or a death. However, what you say and do in the immediate aftermath of a collision can affect your ability to make a successful claim. Also, staying composed will put you in a better position to help yourself and others at the crash scene.
- Call the Police
As the Department of Motor Vehicles explains, if a truck accident causes an injury, death or property damage that exceeds $1,000, you must call the police. Even if you feel fine, you should still contact the police because you may have suffered an injury that you do not notice for several hours or days after the crash.
A police officer will compile an accident report, which will contain details about the vehicles and people involved, property damage, injuries, and the cause of the crash. Your truck accident lawyer may use this report to prove liability and negligence if you make an injury claim.
- Take Photos of the Accident Scene
Take photos that show injuries, property damage, the positions of vehicles, the weather, skid marks, and traffic lights and signs. These may help your injury attorney prove liability and negligence.
- Record the Contact Details of Eyewitnesses
Witnesses often see details about a crash that the people involved overlook. Your truck accident lawyer may be able to use their testimonies to support your claim.
- Consult an Injury Attorney
An injury attorney from Christopher Trainor & Associates can help you fight for the maximum settlement. We have the litigation experience to represent your interests if your case goes to trial.
A truck accident lawyer from our firm can help you avoid mistakes such as accepting a low settlement or unknowingly admitting fault to the insurance company. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call 1-800-961-8477 today to schedule a free case evaluation.