4 Crucial Steps to Take after a Commercial Truck Crash in Texas – Tips from a Tyler Accident Attorney

Few experiences can match the trauma of a truck accident. Sixty-seven percent of truck crash fatalities affect drivers and passengers in regular-sized vehicles, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. For this reason, all commercial truck drivers in Texas must have insurance coverage for wrongful death.

If you are struggling to pay medical bills after a truck collision in Texas, then contact the Cooper Law Firm at 903-297-0037. A Tyler accident attorney can evaluate your crash to determine if you may have grounds for a claim.

Until then, read on to learn four crucial steps to take after a commercial truck crash in Texas:

1. Get the Police Involved

The police will create a report that contains the details of the accident. The report will outline the cause of the accident, the date and time, as well as deaths and injuries. Make sure that the facts are correct, and get a copy for yourself.

2. Collect Information from Witnesses

If bystanders witnessed the accident, then ask for their contact details. Witness testimonies may support your claim by helping you prove liability and negligence. For example, if the other driver ran a red light and caused the collision, then a witness may have seen this. Be sure to collect names, phone numbers and email addresses.

3. Record DOT Numbers and License Plate Numbers

Commercial trucks often have DOT numbers. Be sure to record this, as well as the license plate number. This will help your accident lawyer track down the owner of the vehicle if the driver provides false information.

You may need these numbers to find the party who is liable for your injuries. In some cases, the driver is not liable. Vehicle owners, fleet managers or even mechanics may be liable for damages.

4. Photograph the Scene

You should always carry a cell phone with a camera or have a disposable camera in your glove box. After a truck collision, take as many photographs of the scene as possible. These images may help you prove liability, and they can demonstrate the extent of the damage.

In particular, be sure to take pictures of the vehicles’ positions, as well as property damage. You should also photograph any injuries.

Even if negligence seems obvious, it is critical that you have evidence to support your claim. If you were physically unable to gather evidence, then return to the scene after seeking medical attention. Alternatively, you can – and should – contact an accident lawyer, who can collect evidence on your behalf. Your attorney can also handle the legal side of your lawsuit so you can focus on physical recovery.

If you would like to speak with a truck accident attorney in Tyler, then contact the Cooper Law Firm at 903-297-0037. Mr. Cooper can evaluate your crash, talk to witnesses, structure your claim and aggressively fight for the maximum compensation.