What should I do after a truck accident in Phoenix, Arizona?

The moments after a truck accident can be disorienting, making it difficult to compose yourself and think about what comes next. But your actions after a collision can significantly impact your health and well-being. It can affect also affect any legal claim you need to file later.

At Swenson & Shelley, we care about the health and welfare of injured people. You can’t prevent every truck crash from happening, but you can empower yourself by learning how to protect yourself personally and legally. Read on for advice from an Arizona truck accident attorney from our Phoenix firm.

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Move to Safety at the Scene

If you can, move your vehicle to a safe location. Ideally, you want to stay out of harm’s way and avoid a secondary collision. If your car is inoperable, put on your hazard lights.

Most large trucks carry flares and cones. Have the truck driver set up a perimeter to keep other motorists away if possible.

Check for Injuries 

Immediately check yourself and any passengers for injuries. You should also contact local authorities. Law enforcement can help control the scene and administer first aid. Semi-truck accidents can cause traumatizing injuries, which may require emergency medical intervention.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention 

Your health and safety are the top priority after an accident. If your injuries are significant, accept the ambulance ride to the hospital. If you do not go to the emergency department, seek medical attention from an urgent care facility or your primary care physician immediately. Symptoms of life-threatening injuries do not always manifest immediately after a collision.

Your medical records will also be essential evidence in your truck accident claim. Obtaining compensation is only possible with official proof of your injuries.

Collect Contact and Insurance Information 

Exchange contact and insurance information with the truck driver. Ask for the following:

• Name and contact details
• Driver’s license number
• Insurance information
• Name of the driver’s employer
• Contact information for the trucking company

Keep your conversation to a minimum with the driver. Do not apologize or admit fault.

Gather Evidence

Try to collect evidence at the accident scene if you can. Take photos and videos from multiple angles. Document the damage to both vehicles and photograph skid marks, debris, and your injuries. Ask witnesses on the scene for their contact information and a brief description of what they saw.

Recovering Damages for Your Injuries in Phoenix 

Obtaining compensation after a truck accident can provide an essential lifeline for seriously injured people, who may face a lifetime of medical expenses due to the severity of their injuries. Prepare for challenges from the insurance company. Truck accident claims usually involve high payouts, which increases the likelihood of a dispute.

Some crucial evidence that may help your claims, such as the truck’s black box data and driver logs, belongs to the trucking company. An Arizona truck accident lawyer can demand this evidence for you. An experienced lawyer will also investigate the crash, file all paperwork for you, and manage communication between you and the insurer.

Get Strong Legal Representation After a Trucking Accident 

Have you been hurt in a truck accident in Arizona? Discuss your case with a seasoned Phoenix truck accident attorney at Swenson & Shelley. Contact our office to set up a free case review today.