An individual is uncommon to be involved in a truck accident. While trucks are constantly on the highways and contribute significantly to the overall number of vehicles, they only make up a small percentage of the total number of accidents reported annually. According to data gathered by the US Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration (FMCSA), large trucks accounted for 8.9% of all miles, making up only 3% of all accidents.
It is important to note that while large trucks only make up a small number of overall accidents due to their size and mass, they often result in catastrophic injuries or worse when they occur. The same FMCSA study found that 74% of fatalities caused by trucking-related crashes were occupants of other vehicles rather than occupants within the truck itself. This statistic demonstrates how many people are at risk from truck-involved collisions, even though most drivers will not experience them directly during their lifetime.
If your loved one has been involved in a truck accident, taking the necessary steps to ensure their safety and well-being is essential. Here are a few steps to consider.
Assist in Medical Needs
Assisting a loved one in a truck accident is of utmost importance. It is necessary for their physical and emotional recovery and to ensure that they have the resources and support required to get back on track.
First and foremost, it is essential to provide medical attention for any injuries sustained during the accident. This includes getting them checked out by a doctor immediately after the accident or taking them to the hospital if necessary. Depending on the severity of their injuries, they may need physical therapy or other forms of rehabilitation to recover. Helping them obtain needed medications or treatments can help relieve pain and promote healing.
It is also important to provide emotional support as your loved one recovers from a truck accident injury. Many survivors struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety due to their experiences. Reaching out with words of kindness, reminding them that you are there for them no matter what, and advocating for psychotherapy services if needed can go a long way towards improving their mental health. Other helpful practices include engaging in activities such as going outdoors or visiting family members or friends—anything that helps build positive connections and reinforces feelings of love and acceptance can be beneficial during this time.
Gather Evidence
Gathering evidence is a crucial step in any truck accident case. When your loved one has been involved in a collision, it might be challenging to determine what happened and who was at fault. Gathering evidence can help you build a strong case by proving why the truck driver should be liable for the crash.
It is essential to document as many details as possible about the accident, such as taking photographs of the scene, collecting contact information from witnesses, getting copies of police reports, and recording names and insurance information from all drivers involved in the crash. It is also beneficial to keep track of medical records and bills related to treatment for injuries sustained during the crash. This can help strengthen your claim when filing an insurance or legal claim.
Seek Professional Assistance
Knowing what steps to take and where to turn for help can be difficult when a loved one has been involved in a truck accident. This is why seeking advice from an experienced lawyer or legal professional is so important. An 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer will have the knowledge and resources to properly assess your case, build a strong argument, and file all necessary paperwork. They can also advise you on handling negotiations with insurance companies, opposing lawyers, and any other legal matters that may arise due to the crash.
However, you might require more than just legal assistance. If your loved one did not survive the accident, you might need to seek grief counseling or psychological support to deal with the emotional trauma of losing a family member. Additionally, it is essential to connect with other resources, such as banks or government agencies, that can help provide financial aid during this difficult time.
Final Thoughts
When a loved one is involved in a truck accident, it can be an incredibly traumatic experience. Taking the necessary steps to ensure their safety and well-being is essential. This includes providing medical attention, gathering evidence to strengthen your case, and seeking professional advice from legal experts or counselors. Additionally, it is necessary to connect with other resources that can provide financial aid during this difficult time. Taking the proper steps after a truck accident can help your loved one get through this challenging situation more quickly and successfully.