Over 160,000 truck accidents occurred in 2023, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You might want to know what to do if you are involved in a crash.
In the following chaos, many people make mistakes that can damage their potential claims. Knowing what not to do can make all the difference in protecting your rights and getting the compensation you deserve.
Here’s what not to do after a truck accident:
Never Leave the Scene
Even if the accident seems minor, do not drive away. Leaving the scene, especially before law enforcement arrives, can turn a bad situation into a legal nightmare. In many places, that could be considered a hit-and-run. You could face substantial fines or even jail time even if you are the victim. You will want to stay put.
Don’t Skip Calling 911
The truck driver might try to convince you that it is just a fender bender, and the police don’t need to get involved. Don’t listen. Always call 911. A police report is an essential piece of evidence for insurance claims and any legal action. Without it, you will have a much harder time proving what happened.
Never Admit Fault
Even if you think you made a mistake, never make a statement that could indicate fault. Accidents happen fast. Let the investigators do their job. Even if you were not responsible, an “I’m sorry” can be used against you later. Instead, stick to the facts when talking to the police, the truck driver, or witnesses.
Don’t Refuse Medical Attention
Your adrenaline is pumping, and you might feel okay. You may still have injuries. Whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions do not show up right away. You will always want to get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. Not only does this protect your health, but now you have a medical record linking your injuries to the accident. You’ll need it for insurance claims or a lawsuit.
Don’t Rely Solely on Police for Evidence Collection
While the police will document the scene, they might not catch everything. If you can, you may want to take photos of:
- Your vehicle and the truck, from all angles
- The road conditions, skid marks, and traffic signs
- Your injuries
- The truck’s license plate and any identifying company logos
You will also want to get the truck driver’s name, employer, and insurance information. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact details. Remember, once evidence is gone, it is lost forever.
Never Talk to the Trucking Company or Their Insurance Without a Lawyer
After the accident, you might get a call from the trucking company’s insurance adjuster. They will seem friendly, but don’t be fooled. They want to save their company money, not help you. They might get you to say something that hurts your claim or push you into accepting a low settlement. You should never give a recorded statement or discuss your injuries without talking to a lawyer first.
Don’t Assume the Truck Driver Is the Only One Responsible
Truck accidents often have more than one liable party. Along with the driver, the trucking company, the truck manufacturer, or even a maintenance provider could be responsible. Identifying all potential defendants could increase the amount of compensation available to you.
Don’t Accept a Quick Settlement
Your first offer will almost always be way lower than what you need. Truck accidents often cause serious injuries that require long-term care, time off work, or even permanent lifestyle changes. If you accept a lowball offer, you can’t go back and ask for more later. Take your time, consult a lawyer, and make sure you’re getting the right amount of compensation.
Never Post About It on Social Media
While it could be tempting to vent about what happened, you need to stay off social media. Insurance companies and lawyers will check your posts for anything contradicting your claim. Even a simple picture of you could be used to argue that your injuries are not that bad. You should only discuss your accident with your lawyer.
Don’t Delay in Contacting a Lawyer
Truck accidents are way more complicated than regular car accidents. There are federal regulations, multiple liable parties, and big insurance companies involved. The longer you wait to get legal help, the harder it becomes to gather evidence and build a strong case. Contacting a Gulfport truck accident lawyer is the most important step for your claim.
When you avoid these common mistakes, you can protect your rights, health, and financial future. Doing things the right way can make a huge difference in your recovery and the compensation you receive. At Owen, Owen & Smith, PLLC, we can provide the guidance you need so you can avoid making an error with your case.
