Lake Charles Trucking Accident LawyersAt Broussard & Hart, L.L.C., our Lake Charles personal injury firm, we have handled many trucking accident injury and death claims. Although we sincerely hope you never have to use the advice below, our attorneys suggest that every driver read the following: What to do if you are in a truck accident:Safety first: Don't worry about your belongings—secure the scene for the safety of those in the trucking accident, and for the safety of other motorists on the road. Get everyone out of the danger zone, call 911 and report the accident, and put up semaphores to warn traffic. Get medical help: Get medical help for those who need it, beginning with first aid. Any drivers or passengers who have even mild injuries should see a doctor as soon as possible after the accident. Get contact information for paramedics and ambulance drivers. Get contact information: If possible get the names and contact information of witnesses. Write down the name of the truck driver, the trucking company identification on the tractor, the information on the trailer, and the license numbers of the driver, the tractor, and the trailer. (Semi trucks often pull rigs owned by a different company.) Take pictures of the trucking accident scene, especially any marks or debris on the roadway. Photograph vehicles involved from all angles, including the interior. If you don't have a camera, try to borrow a camera phone from a passer-by, or buy a disposable camera. Take photos of your injuries, including bruises, at various stages of recovery. When taking photos, however, be aware that any picture you give to your lawyer becomes evidence that can be used by both sides. An insignificant detail like a beer can sitting by a lawn chair can be used to sway a jury. Call a lawyer: If the trucking accident was fatal, the highway patrol or police will send out an accident reconstruction survey team to document evidence. In other cases it is up to the attorneys to make those arrangements. In order to preserve evidence and have the strongest possible case, we suggest you contact an attorney as soon as possible after the crash to begin the investigation process. If you would like to discuss a potential injury or wrongful death claim stemming from a trucking accident, please feel free to call 337-513-0288 (Toll Free: 888-391-5595) or e-mail our office to arrange a free and confidential consultation. We will respond quickly to your inquiry. For more information, see: |
Today is Thursday, July 29, 2010
What to Do if You Are in a Truck Accident
