A truck accident can change your life in an instant. The enormous size of commercial trucks means these accidents often result in devastating damage and serious injuries. Whether you’re coping with the shock of the crash or the burden of what follows, understanding what to do after a truck accident in Temple, TX, can protect your rights and ease the process. If you’ve experienced a truck accident, this guide will assist you in navigating the aftermath and regaining control of your life.
1. Prioritize Safety
Safety is the top priority after a truck accident. Large commercial vehicles can create dangerous situations, so assess your surroundings carefully. Move away from the road if at all possible, but do not leave the scene.
If someone is injured, call 911 right away. Emergency responders can assist with treating injuries, managing traffic, and assessing the situation.
2. Call the Police
In Texas, you must report accidents that result in injury, death, or substantial property damage. When the police arrive, they will create an official accident report, which can be vital for insurance claims and any legal proceedings.
When speaking with officers, give them the most accurate information possible. The police will rely on interviews with drivers, witnesses, and their own observations to provide an impartial account of the crash.
3. Gather Information at the Scene
If you can safely do so, gather information and evidence at the scene. The more you gather, the stronger your case will be if you file a claim or lawsuit. This information includes:
- Photos. Take pictures of the vehicles, road conditions, damage, injuries, and license plates.
- Witness information. Get the names and contact details of anyone who saw the accident.
- Driver details. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver.
- Truck details. Document truck details such as the company name and DOT number (if they are a professional driver).
Getting these details is an important step to take after a Temple, TX, truck accident.
4. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t think you’re injured, the adrenaline after an accident can disguise pain. It’s better to err on the side of caution and get checked out as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions, may not show symptoms immediately but can worsen without treatment.
Your medical records are a vital piece of evidence in any legal claim. Insurance companies may argue that delays in seeking treatment indicate your injuries weren’t serious, making it essential to document everything.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company immediately, even if the other driver was at fault. Provide the essential facts so you can receive the assistance you need, but avoid sharing detailed statements or opinions about the accident until you’ve consulted with an attorney who knows what to do after a truck accident in Temple, TX.
6. Notify Your Employer (If You Are a Professional Driver)
If you were driving a commercial vehicle as part of your job during the accident, it’s important to notify your employer right away. Most employers have policies that require drivers to report accidents as soon as possible. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations also dictate specific recordkeeping procedures after an accident. Here are some key steps:
- Provide accurate details about the accident;
- Submit any required documentation, such as a copy of the police report or your logbook entries; and
- Follow your company’s protocols for drug and alcohol testing, which may be required after an accident involving a commercial vehicle.
Failing to notify your employer or adhere to reporting regulations could lead to disciplinary actions or complicate your case.
7. Consult an Experienced Temple Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accidents are far more complex than standard car accidents. They often involve federal trucking regulations, multiple liable parties, and insurance companies that aggressively fight claims. An experienced attorney can:
- Identify liable parties. Investigate whether the truck driver, trucking company, or another party is at fault.
- Navigate regulations. Verify compliance with federal regulations, like those set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
- Maximize compensation. Calculate the full value of your claim, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Having a skilled attorney working with you means you won’t face these challenges alone.
Unique Challenges in a Large Truck Accident in Temple, TX
Accidents involving large commercial trucks differ from typical car accidents in several ways:
- Multiple liable parties and insurance companies. Liability could involve the driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, or cargo loaders, and each will have one or more insurance policies to contend with.
- Complex laws. Federal regulations, like those from the FMCSA, add layers of legal complexity to truck accident claims.
- Severe injuries and damages. Large trucks cause more significant damage, often leading to catastrophic injuries.
An experienced truck accident attorney helps you work through these complexities properly to ensure your case moves forward smoothly.
Key Takeaways of What to Do After a Truck Accident in Temple, TX
If you’re in a truck accident in Temple, TX, taking the right steps can make a big difference in the outcome of your case. Prioritize safety, gather information, seek medical care, and work with an experienced attorney at The Zimmerman Law Firm, P.C. Their personalized approach means you’ll receive the attention you deserve without the hassle of assembly-line legal representation.
Why Choose The Zimmerman Law Firm, P.C.?
For assistance in understanding what to do after a truck accident in Temple, TX, reach out to us at The Zimmerman Law Firm, P.C., to safeguard your interests and future. From prioritizing safety to consulting with legal counsel, every action you take helps strengthen your case and sets you in the right direction after an accident.With offices in Waco, Temple, Killeen, Round Rock, and Austin, The Zimmerman Law Firm, P.C. takes pride in client communication and personal attention. We help Texans recover after truck accidents. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us put our experience to work for you.
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Michael Zimmerman
Michael was born in Houston, Texas. His education at Baylor and Texas State Universities earned him a Bachelor of Science degree in 1987. His major was in Biology with a Minor in Chemistry. He finished his legal education at Texas Southern University in 1990, earning a Juris Doctorate from Thurgood Marshall School of Law. He was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 1990.
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