When driving, you will often come across trucks sharing the roads with you. While this is a common occurrence, trucks can be far more dangerous than you may realize, and truck accidents can be life-altering. As a result, it is important to know what to look out for when it comes to trucks, and what to do if you are involved in an 18-wheeler accident. Read on and speak with a Morris County truck accident attorney for more.
How do 18-wheeler accidents occur?
18-wheeler accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, but they are most often a result of driver negligence. Some of the most common types of driver negligence in terms of 18-wheeler drivers include texting while driving, using the GPS while driving, or driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In other cases, truck drivers operate for more hours than legally allowed, and will drive while excessively fatigued as a result. Unfortunately, all of these behaviors can lead to truck accidents, and often, truck accidents are devastating. If you’ve been injured in such an accident, our firm is here to help.
What should I do if I am injured in an 18-wheeler accident?
If you have been injured by an 18-wheeler truck in New Jersey, there are some important steps you should take:
- Call 911: The first thing you should do is call 911. Doing so will allow the police to send an ambulance, file an accident report, document the scene, and ensure that the roads are safe.
- Seek medical attention: It is important to go to the hospital, even if you do not feel like you have been seriously injured. This is because it is fairly common to sustain an injury without realizing it. This can be a result of things like shock. Additionally, going to the hospital will provide you with proof of the origin and extent of your injuries. This information can play a large role in a personal injury case, so it is important that you ask for copies of your medical records.
- Document the scene: While you wait for the ambulance to arrive, it is important to document the scene. Be sure to take pictures and videos of your car, the truck, damage to any property involved, your injuries, and more.
- Obtain witness contacts: Did anyone see your accident occur? If so, ask for their name and contact information as they may be able to corroborate your version of events.
If you have been injured due to the negligence of another party, you will need a dedicated attorney to fight for you. Let us put our years of experience to work. Contact us today.