Austin Truck Accidents are a real problem. Did you know that Austin, Texas has the largest number of truck accidents compared to other states, with one of seven truck accidents that included fatalities occurring in the state.
The risks are higher in truck accidents in Austin than in smaller car accidents due to the size and weight of the vehicles. If you do happen to get into an accident with a truck, you should make sure to follow these steps. They will ensure you get the medical care you need and that you have documentation of what occurred.
Call the Austin Police Department
Even if you do not think anyone is seriously injured or any significant damage occurred, you should always call the police after an Austin truck accident. Remember that you may not notice vehicle damage or injuries until later. Filing a report with APD right away ensures that there is an official record of the accident if you discover these problems later. Your insurance company will ask for a police report if you file a claim. It should only take a day or two to get a copy of the report.
Exchange Information
Just like you should with any other vehicle collision, make sure you exchange insurance and license information with all parties involved in the truck accident. Be sure to get contact information as well.
During this process, never discuss accident details, particularly who was at fault, and do not apologize for the collision or imply your guilt. Do not even mention your injuries in any way as this could hurt your future claims. Keep the conversation civil and to the minimum.
Take Photos
Assuming you have a smartphone handy, take photos of the entire scene of the accident, including all of the vehicles involved, debris, skid marks, road signs, the license plates, visible damage to the vehicles, and any visible injuries (on both parties).
Go to the Hospital or Go See Your Doctor
Austin truck accidents can be bad. So if you are lucky enough not to need an ambulance from the accident scene, it is still wise to go to your doctor if you notice any injuries at all. Your doctor will evaluate you and provide evidence about the injuries and that they occurred from the accident. Without this step, the driver or truck owner could claim the injuries were preexisting or occurred later.
Contact Insurance
You need to let your insurance company know about the truck accident within 24 hours of it occurring. Make sure that you document the conversation, including the time and date of the discussion and who you talked to.
If the trucking company’s insurance contacts you, never agree to give a recorded statement without consulting your lawyer. Similarly, do not sign any documents without your lawyer.
Consult a Lawyer
To make sure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and vehicle damage following truck accidents in Austin, you will want to consult with Steven C. Lee & Associates. Steve’s team will have an accurate idea of how much compensation you deserve and knows the tricks insurance companies and truck owners use to avoid paying that amount. Their expertise will make a difference when it comes to fair compensation.
Steven C. Lee is a personal injury lawyer in Austin, Texas specializing in truck accidents, car accidents, bicycle accidents, drunk driving accidents, motorcycle accidents, construction site accidents and wrongful death cases.
Steven C. Lee is a member of the Texas Bar, Top 100 Trial Lawyers, Texas Trial Lawyers Association and a member of the BBB in Austin, TX. You can view Steven C. Lee’s LinkedIn Profile here.
