California’s highways and roads are used daily by both private and commercial vehicles. Due to the amount of commercial trucks that drive the state’s road and the size of these trucks, devastating accidents are common.
California regularly ranks as number one in the United States for recorded semi-truck accidents. Just over 10 years ago, California experienced more than 300 fatal truck accidents a year. Those numbers have continued to rise with more semi-trucks on the road transporting goods across the state. So, what should you do if you have been in a truck accident?
Call 9-1-1
If you have just been in a truck accident, you should call 9-1-1 immediately afterwards. It is important to report the accident as soon as possible. If you or someone else is injured, it is vital to get paramedics to the scene to help. Calling the police is also important, as you will need a police report when going through your insurance or the other driver’s insurance company for compensation.
Tell the Truth, but be Careful
When speaking to the police about the accident, it is important to tell the truth about the situation. However, it is advised to be careful about what you say. If you say too much, the police could take your statement as an admission of guilt.
Visit a Doctor
If you don’t go straight to the hospital to get checked out, you should see a doctor as soon as you can. Some injuries do not surface right away. Therefore, it could be a few days before you really feel the after-effects of the accident.
Keep notes on any doctor visits, pain or problem you experience. You should also take photographs of your injuries. This way you have proof of any physical problem that occurred.
If you miss any work due to the injuries, be sure to note the days missed and wages missed. These wages can be compensated for in the future.
Contact Your Insurance Company
You will need to contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Be sure to take the time to look over your insurance policy and note the coverage you have purchased. This way you can see if you are covered for the accident.
What can Flahavan Personal Injury Lawyers do for You?
After a truck accident, Flahavan Personal Injury Lawyers can help you obtain and gather vital information from the incident. Whether it is finding witnesses or getting records on maintenance of the truck from the accident, Flahavan’s experience attorneys can gather everything needed for your claim.
In San Jose, a driver was recently killed when he failed to brake when a truck was turning. The car slammed into the bed of the semi. A child was hurt during the accident, as well, and the family may have a claim against the trucking company.
So, what items can be gathered by an attorney?
- Information about the truck’s age, condition and maintenance records,
- Speed of the truck at the time of the accident,
- Truck driver’s log book, GPS information, and the truck’s “black box,”
- Eyewitnesses’ and first responders’ statements,
- Driver’s prior accident history,
- The company’s accident history,
- The driver’s employment status – is he or she an employee or an independent contractor?
- The company’s policies and procedures regarding safety and maintenance.
Flahavan Law Offices | Thousand Oaks Truck Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has be involved in a truck accident and the medical expenses that come with it, contact Flahavan Law Offices. Flahavan Law Offices specializes in personal injury law and can give you advice on the compensation you deserve. Flahavan Law Offices is here to help with all your personal injury law needs.