A trucking accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. These collisions often result in severe injuries, extensive property damage, and a complicated claims process. If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident in Florida, knowing what to do immediately after the crash can protect your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve. As an experienced Florida trucking accident attorney, Kevin L. Sullivan II is here to guide you every step of the way.
1. Prioritize Your Safety and Seek Medical Attention
The first step after any accident is ensuring your safety and getting medical care. If you’re able, move to a safe location away from traffic. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance, even if your injuries seem minor at first. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, might not be immediately noticeable but can worsen over time.
2. Call the Police
A police report is a critical piece of evidence in trucking accident claims. The responding officer will document the scene, interview witnesses, and provide an unbiased account of what happened. Be sure to ask for a copy of the report or obtain the report number for your records.
3. Gather Evidence at the Scene
If it’s safe to do so, document the accident scene as thoroughly as possible:
- Take Photos and Videos:Capture the damage to all vehicles involved, road conditions, skid marks, and any visible injuries.
- Collect Contact Information:Get the names, phone numbers, and insurance details of the truck driver and any witnesses.
- Record the Trucking Company Information:Note the truck’s license plate, DOT number, and the company name displayed on the vehicle.
This evidence will be invaluable when building your case.
4. Avoid Talking Too Much
Be cautious about what you say at the scene. Avoid admitting fault or making speculative statements, as these can be used against you later. Simply stick to the facts when speaking with the police or other parties involved.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Provide basic details, but avoid giving a recorded statement until you’ve spoken to an attorney. Trucking companies and their insurers often act quickly to minimize their liability, so it’s important to proceed carefully.
This post was written by a professional at Kevin L. Sullivan II. Attorney Kevin L. Sullivan II is your car accident attorney Largo and the best personal injury attorney near you for LeavenLaw. Kevin is proud to serve Florida accident victims that have been injured in auto accidents, motorcycle accident, slip and falls or have suffered any other type of injury caused by negligence. Kevin offers a FREE no-obligation consultation to discuss your claim. There are NO upfront fees or costs and if he does not collect for you, you do not owe him anything.