Roads can be treacherous. You’re driving peacefully down the road, and in an instant, a vast commercial truck comes swerving into your lane, smashing you into bits. The hugeness and bulk of these big rigs make accidents involving them significantly more destructive than ordinary car collisions. If it happens to you, having the right idea of what to do will save your well-being, rights, and financial interests.
5 Key Steps to Take Right Away for Truck Accident in Missouri
Missouri has specific regulations dictating truck accident claims, and taking the correct steps right after a collision is essential. If you are in Springfield, MO, and do not know what to do, these five basic steps can assist you in getting the compensation and justice you are entitled to.
1. Stay Safe and Call 911
Your safety is paramount. If you’re able to move, check yourself and others for injuries. Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask pain, so seeking medical attention is always a wise decision. Missouri law requires that any accident causing injury, death, or property damage be reported to the police immediately.
Waiting for first responders:
- Remain in a safe position, out of traffic.
- Activate hazard lights to warn other drivers.
- Do not move vehicles unless they are an immediate hazard.
The police report is a crucial piece of evidence when making a claim. Officers will gather statements from witnesses, take photographs of the Scene, and establish initial fault, all of which can significantly bolster your case.
2. Take Important Evidence at the Scene
Gathering evidence immediately after the collision will strengthen your argument. Even though police officers note the Scene, having your evidence serves your interests.
Gathering key pieces of evidence:
- Photos and Videos: Take shots of damage on all vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, and injuries.
- Driver Information: Obtain the name of the truck driver, his company, his license number, and his insurance company.
- Witness Statements: If witnesses observed what occurred, request their contact information and a summary of what they witnessed.
- Truck Information: Record the truck’s license plate number, any apparent company logos, and DOT numbers, which can be used to identify the parties at fault.
This data will be instrumental in establishing fault and making your case against the trucking company or their insurance company.
3. Don’t Speak to Insurance Adjusters Without Having Legal Representation
Shortly after the accident, you may receive a call from the trucking company’s insurance adjuster. While they may sound sympathetic, their aim is to settle for as little as possible. Anything you say could be used against you, so it’s crucial to be cautious.
Common tactics they use include:
- Asking leading questions to make you admit partial fault.
- Offering a quick but unfair settlement.
- Requesting a recorded statement to use against you later.
Rather than dealing with negotiations by yourself, hire truck accident attorneys in Springfield familiar with Missouri laws. A local attorney will have a deep understanding of the specific laws and regulations that apply to your case, which can significantly strengthen your claim. They will also have experience dealing with local insurance companies and courts, which can be a major advantage in your case.
4. Get Medical Help Right Away
Even if you are okay, do not miss medical attention. Truck accidents tend to produce internal injuries that are not visible. A physician’s examination can detect concealed injuries such as whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions.
Medical records will also be substantial evidence when claiming compensation. Insurance firms seek any gaps in treatment to claim that your injuries are not severe. Obtaining medical attention immediately removes this risk and ensures you get the required treatment.
5. Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer Before Filing a Claim
Truck accidents are legally complicated. Unlike typical car wrecks, there may be more than one party at fault, such as the truck driver, trucking firm, maintenance contractors, and manufacturers. Going it alone with a claim may mean losing out on substantial compensation.
Here’s how Truck Accident Attorneys in Springfield can assist:
- Thoroughly investigate the accident, including truck logs and black box records.
- Establish liability by determining all parties at fault.
- Bargain tough with insurance firms to obtain a reasonable settlement.
- Sue the insurers if they will not pay you what you are owed.
In Missouri, you generally have five years to bring a personal injury case after a truck collision. Nevertheless, moving promptly enhances opportunities to prevail on your claim and obtain maximum recovery.
If you have been in a truck accident in Missouri, don’t attempt to deal with it alone. A legal team will walk you through each step, and you will get fair compensation for your losses and injuries. Secure your future by consulting a trusted attorney today.
