Truck accidents are usually more dangerous than regular car accidents. An unladen 18 wheeler truck weighs 35,000 pounds, and when loaded, it can weigh up to 80,000. A small car only weighs around 2,600 pounds, so there is a massive weight differential.
In 2022, 4,014 people died in large truck accidents in the US, which was slightly less than the 5,788 deaths in 2021. Truck accident injuries increased by 3.9% in 2022, to 161,000.
18 wheeler trucks, also known as semi-trucks or big rigs, can cause devastating accidents due to their massive size and weight, and if you have been involved in an accident with a semi-truck, there are some crucial steps you need to take to protect yourself and claim the compensation you deserve. Here’s what to do after 18 wheeler truck accident.
1. Get Medical Help
The first thing to do after any accident is get medical attention, even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured. Some injuries like concussions and internal bleeding may not be obvious at first. The shock and adrenaline after an accident can mask symptoms too. Getting checked over thoroughly by emergency services or a doctor will identify any injuries requiring treatment. This medical record will also act as evidence if you make a claim later.
2. Report the Accident
You’ll need to report the 18 wheeler accident to the police so there is an official record. The police report can include key details like witness statements and who the officers believe was at fault. Get a copy of the police report as this will help strengthen your case. Also, report the incident to your insurance company and the trucking company’s insurer.
3. Gather Evidence
Collect as much evidence as you can from the accident scene. Take photos and videos of the vehicles, skid marks, damage, injuries, and overall scene. Get contact details of any witnesses in case you need witness statements later. Try to gather information about the truck driver and trucking company like their license plate, DOT number, driver’s name, and trucking company name. This evidence will help show how the accident happened and who was liable.
4. Consult a Truck Accident Attorney
Contact an experienced truck accident lawyer as soon as possible after the crash. A truck accident injury lawyer, such as a Houston 18 wheeler truck accident lawyer from Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys can conduct a thorough investigation into the accident to build your claim. They can collect evidence, talk to witnesses, consult trucking experts, prove negligence, calculate damages, and challenge any disputes made by the insurer. Retaining legal counsel quickly also sends the message that you are serious about getting the compensation you deserve.
5. Focus on Your Recovery
Make your health recovery your priority after the truck accident. Follow doctor’s orders closely including taking medications and attending therapies and checkups. Take time off work if needed and avoid strenuous tasks that could aggravate injuries. Eat nutritious meals, rest properly, and do light exercises if your doctor allows it. Document all medical treatments, therapies, prescriptions, medical equipment, and any other costs related to your recovery.
6. Avoid Social Media
Be very cautious about what you post on social media after the accident. Insurance companies will be looking for anything they can use against you like posts or photos of you doing strenuous activities. Avoid posting about the specifics of the accident, your injuries, treatment, or recovery. Also, do not accept or assign blame publicly before an official investigation concludes. Let your attorney handle communications related to the accident.
7. Don’t Accept an Early Settlement
The insurance company may try to pressure you into accepting an early settlement which is usually less than you deserve. Politely decline this offer. The full damages, long-term effects of injuries, and full liability may not yet be known. Have your personal injury accident attorney deal with the insurer and wait till your recovery has stabilized before accepting any settlement. This will ensure you get full and fair compensation.
Common Injuries Sustained in Truck Accidents
Some of the most common injuries sustained in 18 wheeler truck accidents include:
- Head and Brain Injuries – Traumatic brain injury, concussion, skull fractures. These can occur from impact with the truck or the head striking the interior of the vehicle.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – Damage to the spinal cord that can cause partial or total paralysis. Usually from violent collision impact.
- Broken Bones – Fractures, dislocations, crushed bones, usually in limbs and ribs from forceful impact.
- Internal Organ Injuries – Trauma to internal organs like lacerations, ruptures, or bruising of lungs, liver, spleen, kidneys, etc.
- Neck and Back Injuries – Whiplash, herniated discs, spinal fractures leading to chronic pain.
- Road Rash – Severe abrasions and skin damage from being thrown from vehicles and sliding on the road.
- Amputations – Partial or total limb amputations, often legs/arms crushed under the weight of trucks.
- Psychological Trauma – PTSD, depression, anxiety from the crash’s trauma and stress.
- Wrongful Death – Severe cases can lead to fatalities of drivers and passengers.
The enormous size and weight of 18 wheelers means the collisions inflict catastrophic, life-altering injuries. Victims require extensive medical treatment and therapies. These severe injuries are why it’s critical for victims to obtain maximum compensation from insurers to cover all current and future medical costs.
Following the steps above can help protect your safety and rights, and allow you to claim for damages after an 18 wheeler truck accident. Acting promptly and consulting an experienced 18 Wheeler truck accident lawyer Houston from Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys is especially critical to building a strong case and getting the maximum compensation you are entitled to. With the right approach, you can achieve justice and fair recovery after a devastating big rig crash.
If you have been involved in a truck accident, it is vital that you seek legal advice. Call the experts from Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys at 800-4THE-WIN (800-484-3946). Our experienced personal injury accident lawyers are here to fight for you.
