If you or someone you love has been involved in a trucking accident, it is highly likely that the experience was not only shocking but also very frightening. That said, it should come as no surprise that many truck accident victims are unable to think clearly in the moments just after the incident.
Still, it is important for individuals to keep a number of things in mind as they attempt to sort through the various emotions they may be dealing with at the time. Whether you are in Denver or elsewhere in Colorado when the accident takes place, your Denver truck accident lawyer will tell you that there are a few key steps that must be taken after a truck accident.
If You or Someone Else is Hurt, Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Of course, if you, your passengers or others involved in the accident have been injured, it is very important for the injured individuals to seek medical attention right away. Your health and wellbeing should always be of utmost importance, so someone should make sure to call for an ambulance, if necessary. Also, it is important to remember not to move an injured individual, as doing so may actually worsen the injuries sustained.
Report the Accident to the Authorities
After ensuring your medical needs are met, you should always call 911 and report the accident to area law enforcement as soon as possible. Contacting the police is important, even if the other driver says he or she can take care of the damages without involving the authorities. The officer who arrives at the scene will make an official record and document what happened in an accident report that may become very important, should legal action need to be taken at a later date.
Please remember, however, that when you speak with the authorities about what took place, do not share or volunteer unnecessary information. Be responsive to the officer’s questions and keep your answers simple. Providing long explanations to simple questions could unintentionally do you more harm than good in the long run.
Take Pictures of the Scene, If Possible
If you or a passenger has a camera available, you are encouraged to take pictures of the scene, the damages sustained and any injuries incurred. A good tip to follow is to always keep a camera in the glove compartment of an automobile (the disposable kind will do just fine). Alternatively, if you have a cell phone with a camera function, that will also work. Additionally, you should make sure to note the license plate numbers of all vehicles involved, as well as their vehicle identification numbers (VINs).
Seek Legal Counsel as Soon as Possible After the Accident
It is important for accident victims to know that if they have sustained injuries in a truck accident (or any other type of motor vehicle accident), and they believe that it was caused by someone else’s negligence or carelessness, they may be entitled to compensation for their damages. That being the case, it is important to work with a skilled truck accident attorney, as he or she understands the intricacies of the law and knows that there may be numerous parties who will need to be held legally responsible for the accident.
Contact Levine Law as soon as possible to discuss the particulars of your case. Let us help you get the just compensation to which you may be entitled.
