What Should a Truck Driver Do After an Accident?

The vehicles truck drivers operate are immense. They are more than four times the length of passenger vehicles and they are much heavier, particularly when they are fully loaded. Due to these factors, many people think that it is only those in smaller vehicles that are injured during an accident involving a tractor-trailer. However, truck drivers are also at risk when they are involved in a crash. The steps they take afterward are also just as important as the steps noncommercial drivers take. Below, our San Antonio 18-wheeler accident lawyer explains what truckers should do after a crash.

Seek Medical Treatment 

The top priority after any accident is to make sure everyone is safe and that they obtain medical treatment for any injuries. If you need urgent medical help, call 911 or report the accident to local law enforcement. When paramedics arrive at the scene, allow them to examine you and provide the necessary treatment.

If you do not receive help at the scene, it is critical that you visit an emergency room immediately following the accident, even if you do not think you were injured. This will help you discover injuries that may be present and will document injuries at a time close to when the crash occurred in case you need to prove them later in your claim.

Report the Crash 

Truck accidents result in serious injuries and extensive property damage. Under Texas law, you must report any accident that results in bodily injury, death, or even relatively minor property damage. Not only should you report the accident to law enforcement, but you should also report it to your employer. Reporting the accident right away will ensure that your company also takes the necessary steps and protects your best interests.

Follow Company Protocol 

Most trucking companies have certain protocols their drivers must follow after an accident. Review this protocol after any crash and make sure you follow all of the steps required by you.

Collect Evidence 

If possible, you should collect as much evidence as you can from the accident scene. Take photos and video footage of the entire scene, your injuries, damage to any of the vehicles, and other pertinent information. Also locate witnesses and ask them for their names and contact information. Many companies are also using dash cams today. If yours does as well, make sure the footage on it is protected so you can use it as evidence in any future lawsuit or insurance claim.

Call an 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer in San Antonio 

The trucking company you work for will likely have a team of lawyers representing them after a crash, and you should, too. Another driver may try to hold you liable for the accident even if you were not at fault, which could prevent you from obtaining the damages you need and may even impact your current employment, future employment, and your career as a truck driver. At the Law Office of Israel Garcia, our San Antonio 18-wheeler accident lawyer can provide the legal representation you need and ensure you receive the most successful outcome possible. Call us now at 210-LAW-9999 or chat with us online to schedule a consultation.

Source:

statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/TN/htm/TN.550.htm