No one starts the day expecting to be in a car accident, but it’s an increasingly common reality across Missouri. Collisions between passenger vehicles are serious enough, often resulting in serious injuries like broken bones, head injuries, and even death. When you add a commercial vehicle into the mix, those injuries become even more severe and common. With thousands of commercial vehicles on the road, it’s important to know what to do if you’re ever involved in an accident with a commercial vehicle.
Call 911
The aftermath of a commercial trucking accident can be disastrous. The size and weight of a commercial vehicle like a semi truck greatly increases the severity of a collision, which also increases the likelihood of serious injuries and property damage. In the event of a commercial vehicle accident, your first step should be to call 911.
Medical Care
While you might feel fine immediately after a collision with a commercial vehicle, you should still seek medical assistance. Injuries like whiplash and other head and neck injuries might not be immediately apparent, and getting your injuries treated should be your top priority. If you or another person sustained injuries during an accident – no matter how severe – call for an ambulance right away.
Police Report
Another reason to call 911 is to obtain a police report. First, it’s required by law; in Missouri, you must report accidents that result in injury, death, or over $500 in property damage. Additionally, a police report will serve as a key piece of evidence in your commercial vehicle accident case. A police report provides a neutral account of the facts written by an authority. Missouri uses comparative negligence when determining fault, and having a police report on your side ensures you receive fair compensation.
Document the Scene
As long as you aren’t seriously injured or transported to a hospital, your next step is to document the scene. Take pictures, ask for any witness statements and contact information, and write down your own account of the accident. Photograph or take videos of your vehicle and any other vehicles involved, the surrounding scene, and your injuries.
Exchange Contact Information
Getting the other driver’s contact information is crucial in any accident, and that’s especially true in a commercial vehicle accident. Collisions with commercial vehicles can be more complicated than with a regular passenger vehicle because of the liability involved – not just with the commercial truck driver, but also with the company they drive for. Other parties, including the truck manufacturer and freight companies, may also hold liability depending on the circumstances of your accident. A Missouri lawyer who specializes in commercial vehicle accidents can help you understand more about fault and trucking accidents.
Report to Insurance
Because insurance plays the largest role in determining fault after a commercial vehicle accident, you should report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Include all the evidence you gathered including the police report, photos and videos, medical bills, vehicle repair bills, and anything else they may ask for.
Consult with a Lawyer
Are you curious about your legal rights after being involved in a commercial vehicle accident in Missouri? An experienced attorney can help you understand all your options and help you receive fair compensation after an injury. The law team at Dreyer & Tinney can advocate for you after being involved in an accident with a commercial vehicle. We work by your side to gather further evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court as you focus on healing from your injuries. Contact Dreyer & Tinney today to schedule a consultation to discuss your case with a Missouri attorney.