Accidents involving 18-wheelers are often due to driver negligence, and the driver can be held responsible. However, other liable parties may include the truck owner, commercial truck driving company, loading company, mechanic, state or local government (regarding road conditions), or the manufacturer of the truck or truck’s parts.

Settling this type of claim or pursuing a lawsuit may involve a lot of legwork and time. You should immediately seek help from a truck accident attorney in El Paso who can determine what should happen next.

Safety First

After a truck accident, both parties need to stay calm and follow the best practices for stopping safely and securing the accident scene. The trucker and/or motorists involved in the crash should pull as far as possible off the road and turn on their hazard lights.

It’s important to get away from the flow of traffic. If someone is injured, emergency services should be called without delay.

The Exchange of Contact Details

After the scene is secured and the injuries are addressed, all parties should exchange information and record the details. This means getting the names, phone numbers, license plates, and insurance details of all the drivers involved.

All the makes, models, and plate numbers of the damaged vehicles should be documented. Also, pictures should be taken of everything in the crash – vehicle damages, the accident scene, and any roadway debris or construction. 

Both close-ups and wide shots should be taken. These pictures will help all the parties involved provide accident reports, and insurance claims information.

Take pictures of everything – from damage to the vehicles or a guardrail to any debris on the road and skid marks. Get close-ups as well as wider shots. These pictures will serve as important additions to insurance claims and accident reports.

Notifications to the Police and Trucking Company 

The police should be notified so an accident report can be filled out for insurance purposes. All parties should cooperate fully with the officers and answer questions honestly and to the best of their recollection.

The truck driver normally must contact their trucking company to report the accident ASAP. A tow truck is usually sent, and the company contacts an insurance provider on their trucker’s behalf. If the trucker is independent, they generally will file an insurance claim as soon as they’re able.

Medical Treatment

Any party after a truck accident should get a medical check-up, even if they’re feeling fine. Shock and/or adrenaline can mask the impact of a serious injury like whiplash, which may appear later. Getting checked and documenting any injuries also helps support injury claims.

Filing a Truck Accident Claim

If you have injuries from the crash, you need to begin the process of filing an injury claim to seek compensation for all your losses. The first step is to consult with an experienced truck accident attorney who can guide the process from here.

Contact an El Paso Truck Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been involved in an 18-wheeler accident and are seeking damages, you should consult with a lawyer immediately. In Texas, schedule a consultation with Cesar Ornelas Injury Law. The sooner you discuss your case, the sooner you can take positive actions toward getting your life back on track. Contact us online or call today.

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