What To Do If I Was Rear-Ended By A Truck?

If you have been rear-ended by a truck, you may be overwhelmed with questions. Eighteen-wheelers and other large freight carriers are massive in relation to cars, thus causing serious, sometimes fatal, accidents. Roughly 500,000 truck-related accidents occur nationally each year; 5,000 result in fatalities. These accidents typically occur because of negligence. Trucks have large blind spots, and truck drivers can suffer from road fatigue. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has estimated that driver fatigue was a contributing factor in 30-40% of all accidents involving trucks.

Drivers must use extreme care to avoid a rear-end collision. Driving with caution during poor weather conditions, avoiding driving distractions, and keeping a safe distance from other vehicles, are all considerations you should take. Not exercising any of the above can result in a rear-end collision. If you do unfortunately experience this type of crash, please take notes at the scene of the accident.

Be sure to do the following after an accident:

• Photos are key. Take many photos of car damage, truck damage, bodily injuries, and tire skid marks. This is very important, because in nearly every rear-end accident, vehicle damage can tell the story of the incident. Also take a photo of the truck’s licence plate number.
• Swap information. Exchange name, phone number, and insurance information with the driver. Gather witness information (if applicable).
• It is very important to document ALL injuries and discomfort, as well as notifying the police and medical personnel handling the accident. Do not be afraid to ask for an ambulance. If you do not request medical assistance on scene, visit a doctor to assess your injuries soon after the collision has occurred.
• Whiplash and other injuries may take days to be noticed. Contact a doctor immediately if discomfort occurs after the accident. If these injuries are not immediately documented, your insurance provider may not claim the injuries.

If you are injured due to the negligence of a tractor trailer driver, please contact the truck accident attorneys of Rutter Mills today for a free, no obligation consultation of your legal rights today. We are here to help, and will make sure you get the compensation you deserve.