Truck accidents can be overwhelming and chaotic. Knowing what to do after a truck accident in Killeen, TX, is crucial for your safety and legal rights. Each step you take can impact your recovery and the outcome of your potential legal claim. In this blog post, we walk you through the essential actions to take after a truck accident to protect yourself and your interests.
1. Ensure Safety and Call for Help
Your safety and the safety of others should always come first. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location and turn on your hazard lights. Check yourself and others involved in the accident for injuries. Even if injuries seem minor, calling 911 to request emergency medical assistance and law enforcement is critical.
Law enforcement will document the accident scene, which can be vital for a future claim. The responding officer will speak with all parties, including potential witnesses, and provide their findings on who they believe to be at fault. Never leave the scene until authorities arrive and clear you to do so.
2. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel fine, you should seek medical attention after a truck accident in Killeen, TX. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away but can worsen over time. A medical evaluation will document your injuries and establish a clear connection to the accident. This documentation is essential if you need to pursue compensation later.
Follow all medical advice and keep records of your treatments, diagnoses, and expenses.
3. Gather Evidence at the Scene
While waiting for emergency services, gather as much evidence as possible. If it is safe to do so, take photos or videos of:
- The accident scene,
- Vehicle damage,
- Skid marks or debris on the road,
- Road conditions,
- Traffic signs or signals nearby,
- Any visible injuries, and
- Other details that could be important to your claim.
Exchange contact and insurance information with the truck driver and other parties involved. Be sure to record the truck’s license plate, the company’s name on the truck, and any DOT (Department of Transportation) numbers. These details can help identify the trucking company and its insurer.
4. Avoid Admitting Fault
When speaking with others at the scene, avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Even casual remarks like “I’m sorry” can be used against you later. Stick to the facts and let the investigators determine the cause of the accident.
5. Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Please provide them with factual details but avoid speculating about who was at fault. Insurance adjusters will likely contact you for further information, so be prepared to provide documentation. However, you should consult a Killeen truck accident lawyer before giving a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company.
6. Consult a Killeen Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accidents often involve complex liability issues and multiple parties, such as the truck driver, trucking company, and their insurers. Consulting a Killeen truck accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process. An attorney can:
- Investigate the accident,
- Gather evidence,
- Communicate with insurance companies, and
- Fight for fair compensation on your behalf.
Commercial truck drivers and trucking companies must adhere to strict state and federal regulations, including hours of service limits, vehicle maintenance requirements, and proper cargo loading.
These trucking regulations are designed to prevent accidents, but violations can and do occur. Understanding these rules can help establish liability if a violation contributed to the accident. An experienced attorney can investigate these factors on your behalf.
7. Preserve Evidence and Documentation
Keep all records related to the accident, including:
- Police report,
- Medical records,
- Documents reflecting lost time from work,
- Repair estimates,
- Receipts for out-of-pocket expenses, and
- Correspondence with insurance companies.
This documentation will strengthen your case and support your claim for damages.
8. Avoid Discussing the Accident on Social Media
Be cautious about what you share online following a truck accident. Insurance companies often monitor social media accounts for posts that could contradict your claims. Avoid discussing the accident, your injuries, or any potential legal action on social media platforms.
9. Follow Through on Medical Treatment
Consistent medical treatment is not only crucial for your recovery but also for your legal claim. Insurance companies will argue that gaps in treatment mean your injuries are not as severe as claimed. Attend all appointments, follow your doctor’s recommendations, and document your progress.
10. Be Aware of the Statute of Limitations
In Texas, you typically have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering compensation. A Killeen truck accident lawyer can help ensure all necessary filings are completed on time.
11. Stay Informed About the Claims Process
Filing a claim after a truck accident is different from filing a typical car accident claim. Trucking companies often have large insurance policies and legal teams working to minimize their liability. It’s essential to stay informed about the claims process and prepare yourself for challenges such as denied claims or settlement offers that do not fully cover your damages.
12. Calculate the Full Extent of Your Damages
Truck accidents often result in significant damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Work with your attorney to calculate the full extent of your losses. Don’t settle for less than you deserve, especially when future medical treatments or long-term effects are involved.
Why These Steps Matter
Taking these steps after a truck accident is vital to your health, safety, and legal rights. Trucking companies and their insurers often have significant resources to minimize their liability. Acting quickly and carefully can protect your claim and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Contact The Zimmerman Law Firm, P.C.
If you have questions about what to do after a truck accident in Killeen, TX, The Zimmerman Law Firm, P.C., is here to help. Our team has decades of combined experience handling complex truck accident cases and fighting for fair compensation. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward recovery.
Where to find our Killeen office
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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