What Matters Most After a Tractor-Trailer Accident
Getting into an accident involving a tractor-trailer can lead to devastating consequences. After a crash, your adrenaline runs high, and you may not even be aware of any injuries you have suffered. If you can, gathering information at the scene can be of significant importance for insurance companies and any ensuing legal proceedings after the crash. Here's what you need to know about collecting information after a Virginia tractor-trailer accident.
Important Information to Gather at the Truck Accident Scene
Tractor-trailer accidents can leave devastation in their wake. Because of the sheer size and weight of these vehicles, victims of trucking accidents can be left with major damage to their vehicles and catastrophic, life-changing injuries—or even death. If you or your loved one has been the victim of a tractor-trailer accident, you might wonder what the most important information is to gather at the scene of the accident—if you are physically able.
When circumstances allow, try to gather the following information at the scene of the accident:
- Driver information. Name, contact information, driver's license number, and insurance details of the truck driver.
- Truck details. Write down the license plate number, the make and model of the vehicle, and any visible identification numbers on the tractor-trailer.
- Witness accounts. Collect names and contact information from any witnesses who observed the accident. Their testimonies can provide valuable insight later into what occurred.
- Photos and videos. Take pictures or videos of the accident scene from different vantage points, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any relevant traffic signs or signals.
- Police. Always call the police after an accident, even if there is only minor damage, and it appears nobody is hurt. An accident report contains vital information that will be important later, including officer observations and details about any citations issued, which can be used to determine fault.
Fault or Negligence in Virginia Accidents
Virginia is a unique state regarding fault or liability for accidents. To pursue compensation for damage and/or injuries sustained in a crash, you cannot be liable at all for the accident. This is called Virginia’s “contributory negligence” law. The other party must be 100% at fault for the crash to recover losses.
No matter who you believe is at fault or what percentage of the blame they may share, consult with an experienced Virginia accident lawyer after a crash. Their knowledge of Virginia law will be valuable in dealing with insurance adjustors and representing your interests in a personal injury lawsuit.
Gathering Information Safely After a Trucking Accident
Always prioritize your safety and well-being after an accident. If you are injured or think you weren’t hurt in the crash, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Never place yourself in harm’s way in an attempt to gather evidence and information after a tractor-trailer accident. You could get hurt or killed by vehicles trying to get around the accident, especially if you are looking through your phone for pictures or video. Be aware of your surroundings and how you feel. If you're injured or unable to collect information safely, don't put yourself at further risk.
Contact a Lawyer After a Tractor-Trailer Accident
With whatever information you could gather, contact a Virginia tractor-trailer accident lawyer as soon as possible after the accident. Even if you only have a few details, an experienced attorney can open your case and begin gathering the evidence necessary to represent your interests.
Seeking legal representation is smart for several reasons, including:
- Protect your rights. An attorney will protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve if you were the victim of a trucking accident.
- Gather evidence. Lawyers know how to gather evidence even after an accident has been cleared. They may obtain black box data from vehicles, surveillance footage, police reports, and more.
- Determine damages. Having legal representation increases your chances of receiving fair compensation for injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Your lawyer will determine the amount you are entitled to receive to ensure a fair settlement.
- Negotiation and litigation. Whether handling pushy insurance adjusters or representing you in court, a skilled lawyer will fight for the best possible outcome on your behalf.
Even if you can’t collect extensive details at the scene of the accident, contacting a lawyer promptly after being involved in an accident with a tractor-trailer helps protect your rights and provides you with an advocate who will fight for what you deserve.