What to Do Immediately After a Truck Accident: Advice from a Wilkes-Barre Truck Accident Attorney

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A truck accident can leave you feeling overwhelmed, injured, and unsure of what to do next. Taking the right steps in the moments and days after a crash can make a significant difference in protecting your health, legal rights, and financial future. At Metzger Wickersham (MWKE), we understand the complexities of truck accident claims and are here to guide you through the process. Below, we outline the crucial steps to take immediately after a truck accident and how a Wilkes-Barre truck accident attorney can assist you at each stage.

1. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention

Your safety and health should be the top priority. If you are able, move to a safe location away from traffic. Check yourself and others for injuries, and call 911 to report the accident. Even if you feel fine, seeking medical attention is critical, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.

How a Wilkes-Barre Truck Accident Attorney Can Help

  • A lawyer can help you obtain medical records and ensure that your injuries are properly documented, which is crucial for any legal claim.
  • They can also work with medical professionals to assess the long-term impact of your injuries.

2. Call the Police and Obtain a Report

Pennsylvania law requires drivers to report accidents that result in injuries, death, or significant property damage. A police report provides an official record of the accident, including witness statements and officer observations, which can be vital evidence for your case.

How a Wilkes-Barre Truck Accident Attorney Can Help

  • Your attorney can request the police report and use it to support your claim.
  • They can also help correct any inaccuracies in the report that might affect your case.

3. Gather Evidence at the Scene

If it is safe to do so, take photos and videos of the accident scene, including:
  • Damage to all vehicles involved
  • Road conditions and traffic signs
  • Skid marks, debris, and other relevant details
  • Any visible injuries
Additionally, collect contact information from the truck driver, any witnesses, and other involved parties. Be sure to get the truck driver’s employer details and insurance information.

How a Wilkes-Barre Truck Accident Attorney Can Help

  • Your lawyer can analyze the evidence you collect and gather additional proof, such as traffic camera footage and trucking company records.
  • They can also work with accident reconstruction experts to strengthen your case.

4. Avoid Admitting Fault and Be Cautious with Insurance Companies

In the aftermath of an accident, you may be in shock or feel pressured to discuss what happened. Avoid admitting fault, even if you think you may have contributed to the accident. Trucking companies and their insurers will often try to minimize their liability and may use your statements against you.

How a Wilkes-Barre Truck Accident Attorney Can Help

  • A lawyer can handle all communications with insurance companies to prevent you from making statements that could harm your claim.
  • They can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.

5. Seek Legal Representation as Soon as Possible

Truck accident claims are more complex than regular car accident cases due to federal trucking regulations and the involvement of large trucking companies. An experienced Wilkes-Barre truck accident attorney can help you navigate the legal process, identify all liable parties, and build a strong case for compensation.

How a Wilkes-Barre Truck Accident Attorney Can Help

  • Investigate whether the trucking company violated any federal safety regulations.
  • Identify all potential sources of compensation, including the truck driver, the trucking company, and any third parties involved.
  • File a personal injury lawsuit if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

Why Choose Metzger Wickersham (MWKE)?

At Metzger Wickersham, we have decades of experience representing truck accident victims in Wilkes-Barre and throughout Pennsylvania. Our dedicated legal team understands the unique challenges of truck accident cases and will fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Metzger Wickersham (MWKE) today for a free consultation and let us fight for the justice you deserve.