If you were involved in a Seattle truck accident, you may be feeling shaken, sore, and unsure what to do next. Collisions involving semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, and other large commercial vehicles are unlike car crashes. Injuries are often more severe, and the legal process is far more complex.
Knowing what to do after a truck accident in Seattle helps you stay in control at a moment when everything feels chaotic and protects your rights in a claim. At Washington Injury Law, we help accident victims and their loved ones throughout King County get through situations like this every day. If you or someone you love is involved in a crash, our experienced Seattle truck accident lawyer explains what to do next.
When Seattle Truck Accidents Happen, Notify The Police and Document the Scene
Seattle truck accidents pose serious risks to residents and visitors alike. According to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), nearly 2,000 of these crashes happen in King County each year.
Wondering what to do after a semi-truck accident or collisions involving other big rigs? Notify law enforcement immediately and make sure they complete an accident report. The next step, if you are able, is to document the scene:
- Get the truck driver’s personal contact information, the name of the trucking company, and insurance information.
- Collect contact, insurance, and vehicle registration numbers for other drivers involved, as they may share some of the blame.
- If there were any witnesses at the scene, get their contact information as well.
- Take photos or videos of where the crash happened, damage to the truck and your vehicle, your injuries, skid marks, dented guardrails, and other relevant details.
Taking as many of these steps as possible helps protect you and your rights to compensation.
Get Medical Care Right Away For Seattle Truck Accident Injuries
The National Safety Council (NSC) warns that large trucks are responsible for nearly 10 percent of all fatal crashes on roads throughout the U.S. Even a relatively minor Seattle truck accident can cause severe harm, impacting you and your loved ones for long months or years to come.
In the aftermath of a crash, adrenaline can hide pain. Unfortunately, if you delay medical care, you may not only risk your health. You may also give the insurance company a reason to argue that your injuries weren’t caused by the accident.
Getting checked out early protects you and creates a clear record of what you’re dealing with. Here’s what to do after a semi-truck accident in Seattle, in terms of getting medical care:
- Request medical help at the scene and avoid downplaying your injuries.
- Go to the emergency room or urgent care as soon as possible.
- Follow up with your doctor and let them know what happened.
- Inform them of every symptom, even if it seems small.
- Keep all follow-up appointments and adhere to treatment plans, as well as work and activity restrictions.
Neck injuries, back problems, concussions, and internal injuries often start quietly and get worse over time. Getting help early gives you the best chance to heal.
Be Cautious When Insurance Companies Start Calling
Soon after your accident, insurance adjusters may begin calling. Keep in mind their job is to protect the insurance company, not you. The Insurance Information Institute (III) reports that property and casualty insurers collect more than $900 billion in premiums each year. They are among the most profitable industries, and one way they protect their bottom line is by denying or downplaying claims.
To avoid problems, here’s what to do after a truck accident when insurers contact you:
- Don’t give recorded statements without getting trusted legal advice first.
- Avoid guessing why the crash happened, apologizing for ‘your part’, and explaining your actions immediately before or after.
- Be wary if the insurer offers an immediate settlement, as this could leave you paying out of pocket for any future medical care and lost income.
- Avoid signing any paperwork or accepting money right away, as this can waive your rights in future claims.
Unfortunately, victims often hurt their own cases by trying to be helpful. You don’t need to argue, but you also don’t need to say anything that could be used against you later.
Talk to an Experienced Seattle Truck Accident Lawyer Before You Make Big Decisions
If you’re wondering what to do after a Seattle car accident, one of the smartest steps is talking to a local lawyer who handles these cases every day. You don’t need to know whether you “have a case” yet. A good lawyer will establish liability and help you understand what matters and what doesn’t.
Even minor accidents can cause long-term problems. Once you accept a settlement or sign paperwork, you usually can’t go back, even if new injuries appear. An experienced Seattle truck accident lawyer can help by:
- Reviewing your case and explaining your rights under the Washington Revised Code.
- Advising you on your options in terms of seeking compensation.
- Gathering evidence in support of your claim.
- Negotiating with insurers on your behalf so you can focus on recovering from your injuries.
- Fighting for the maximum amount you may be entitled to, either through insurers or by filing a truck accident lawsuit through the King County Courts.
When you are hurt and wondering what to do after a semi-truck accident in Seattle or another major crash, having someone with experience in these matters is comforting and protects your rights to compensation.
Unsure of What To Do After A Truck Accident? Contact Our Experienced Seattle Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accidents in Seattle can cause devastating injuries that disrupt your life in numerous ways. Dealing with the medical bills, missed work, and constant phone calls from insurers can be overwhelming and delay your physical recovery. At Washington Injury Law, our experienced Seattle truck accident lawyer is here to help.
We represent clients throughout King County, including Downtown (98101), Capitol Hill (98102), and Rainier Valley / Beacon Hill (98144). To schedule a consultation, call or contact us online today.