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Being rear-ended by an 18-wheeler can be one of the most frightening experiences on the road. These massive vehicles, weighing up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, can cause devastating injuries and damage in a collision. Because of commercial trucks’ size and power, accidents often lead to severe injuries, long recovery times, and complex legal claims.
Knowing what steps to take after being rear-ended by an 18-wheeler protects your health, financial well-being, and legal rights. This blog outlines everything you should do in the moments following an accident and the days afterward to ensure the best possible outcome.
Immediate Steps to Take After the Accident
After being rear-ended by an 18-wheeler, the initial moments can be disorienting and chaotic. However, your first actions are critical for your safety and any future claims.
- Ensure Safety and Call for Help: Your immediate priority should be your safety and the safety of others involved in the accident. If you can, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid additional collisions. Turn on your hazard lights and call 911 to report the accident.
- Check for Injuries: Even if you don’t feel injured right away, take a moment to assess yourself and any passengers for signs of injury. Due to adrenaline and shock, it’s common not to notice pain or injuries until hours or days later.
- Avoid Confrontation with the Truck Driver: It’s natural to feel anger or frustration after an accident. However, it’s essential to remain calm and avoid arguments or confrontations with the truck driver.
- Document the Scene: Gather evidence at the scene if you are physically able. Use your phone to take photos of the damage to both vehicles, the surrounding road conditions, and any visible injuries.
Why Seeking Medical Attention Immediately is Crucial
Even if you feel okay after the accident, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is essential. Injuries from rear-end collisions, especially involving 18-wheelers, may not appear immediately. Common delayed symptoms can include:
- Whiplash: Neck pain or stiffness may develop hours or even days after the accident.
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Headaches, confusion, and dizziness could indicate a TBI that needs urgent attention.
- Spinal Injuries: Back pain or numbness in your limbs might indicate spinal cord damage.
Seeing a doctor right away helps detect hidden injuries and creates medical documentation that will be critical for any future legal claims. Insurance companies may try to argue that your injuries weren’t caused by the accident if you delay medical care.
Contact Law Enforcement and Obtain a Police Report
One of the most important steps after an accident is to ensure that law enforcement is called to the scene. Police officers will create an official accident report, which can be crucial evidence in your case.
- Role of the Police in Truck Accidents: Law enforcement will investigate the accident, interview witnesses, and take statements from both drivers. Their findings will be documented in a police report that could help establish liability for the accident.
- Importance of an Official Record: The police report will provide details that may be difficult to recall later, such as the position of the vehicles, weather conditions, and statements made by the truck driver. Make sure to obtain a copy of the police report for your records and to share it with your attorney.
Gathering Evidence at the Scene
The evidence you gather immediately after the accident will play a significant role in proving your case.
Take Detailed Photos and Videos
Be thorough when documenting the scene. Take clear photos of:
- The damage to both vehicles, especially the rear of your car and the front of the truck.
- Road conditions (e.g., skid marks, road signs, or traffic signals).
- Any visible injuries you or your passengers sustained.
Collect Driver and Witness Information
Exchange contact and insurance information with the truck driver, but avoid discussing the accident or admitting any fault. If there were witnesses, ask for their names and phone numbers—they may provide important testimony if your case goes to court.
Notify Your Insurance Company
You should report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. However, keep in mind that what you say can affect your claim.
- Report the Accident Promptly: Your policy likely requires you to notify your insurer within a specific timeframe, so don’t delay. Provide basic information about the accident, but avoid giving a recorded statement or detailed account of the incident until you’ve spoken with an attorney.
- Be Cautious About Recorded Statements: Insurance companies may try to downplay the severity of your injuries or shift some of the blame onto you. It’s best to let your attorney handle communication with both your insurer and the trucking company’s insurance provider to protect your interests.
Contact Our Bryan and College Station Truck Accident Attorneys Today
Being rear-ended by an 18-wheeler can lead to catastrophic injuries and financial losses. You don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our experienced truck accident attorneys at The Payne Law Group are here to help. We’ll fight for your rights, investigate the accident, and negotiate with insurance companies to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us guide you through the legal process.