Truck accidents are a serious issue in Pennsylvania, often resulting in significant damage, severe injuries, or even fatalities. Due to their size and weight, trucks pose a greater risk on the road, and accidents involving these vehicles can be devastating. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, in 2022, there were over 7,500 large truck accidents in the state, many of which resulted in injuries or fatalities. Truck accidents not only leave physical scars but also lead to emotional and financial burdens for victims and their families.

In the aftermath of a truck accident, it’s important to understand the steps you should take to protect your rights and collect the proper compensation. This guide will walk you through the essential actions to take following a truck accident in Pennsylvania, helping you navigate the complex legal process.

If you’ve been in a truck accident in PA, please consult with an experienced truck accident lawyer. The team at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law can help you.

Step-by-Step Guide to Handling a Truck Accident in Pennsylvania

1. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention

The first and most important step after any truck accident is to prioritize safety. If you can safely do so, it’s recommended that you move your vehicle to a safe place that is away from traffic, to prevent further collisions. Once your car is moved, make sure to turn on the hazard lights so that other other drivers can clearly see there is an accident.

After ensuring that you and any passengers are safe, assess your physical condition. Truck accidents often result in severe injuries, even if they are not immediately apparent. Due to the shock and adrenaline of the accident, you might not feel pain right away, but some injuries like internal bleeding or concussions may become serious over time. Therefore, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately, either at the scene or by visiting a hospital afterward.

Keep in mind that your medical records will play a critical role in your claim later on, so don’t delay getting checked by a healthcare professional, even if you don’t think your injuries are severe.

2. Call the Police

Regardless of the severity of the truck accident, calling the police is essential. In Pennsylvania, it is required by law to report any accident involving injury, death, or significant property damage. When the police arrive at the scene, they will file an official accident report, which will be a key piece of evidence when filing your personal injury or insurance claim.

Provide the police with an accurate and factual account of what happened. Avoid speculating or admitting fault, as this could negatively impact your claim later on. Once the report is complete, ask for a copy for your own records.

3. Gather Information and Evidence

Documenting the accident scene is important for building a strong case. If you are able, take the following steps to collect as much evidence as possible:

• Photograph the Scene: Take pictures of all vehicles involved in the crash, focusing on the damage to your vehicle, the truck, and any other affected cars. Additionally, capture road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, weather conditions, and anything else that may have contributed to the accident.
• Get Contact Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the truck driver and any other drivers involved in the accident. Be sure to collect the driver’s name, license number, employer information (for truck drivers), and the trucking company’s insurance details. If there is anyone who witnessed the accident, you should take down their contact information as well.
• Document Your Injuries: Take photographs of your injuries and any visible damage to your property. Continue to document your injuries as they heal to show the full extent of the harm caused by the accident.

4. Notify Your Insurance Company

After gathering the necessary information, notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Pennsylvania is a "no-fault" insurance state, meaning your own insurance company will cover your medical expenses and lost wages up to a certain limit, regardless of who was at fault for the accident.

However, it’s essential to be cautious when speaking to insurance adjusters, especially those from the trucking company’s insurer. Insurance companies are known for trying to minimize payouts, and anything you say could be used against you. Do not give more information than needed and just tell them the facts and avoid saying anything that could imply fault on your part. If you are unsure how to proceed, it may be in your best interest to consult with an attorney before making any official statements.

5. Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney

Truck accidents can lead to complicated legal battles involving multiple parties, such as the truck driver, the trucking company, and their insurance carriers. Because truck accidents often result in severe injuries, the stakes are high, and these parties may aggressively defend against your claim to minimize their liability.

For this reason, it’s important to consult with an experienced truck accident attorney who can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Your attorney will investigate the accident, collect evidence, and build a case to hold the responsible parties accountable for your injuries and damages.

6. Keep Records of All Expenses

As you recover from the truck accident, make sure to keep detailed records of all expenses related to the crash. This includes medical bills, transportation costs to and from doctor’s appointments, lost wages, and any other financial burdens caused by the accident. These records will be necessary when calculating the full value of your claim and seeking compensation.

7. Follow Your Doctor’s Treatment Plan

It’s vital to follow your doctor’s advice and adhere to any prescribed treatment plans. This not only aids in your physical recovery but also strengthens your personal injury claim. Failing to follow medical advice may give the opposing party grounds to argue that your injuries are not as severe as you claim or that you are not taking the necessary steps to mitigate your damages.

Call Brandon J. Broderick For Legal Help

Navigating Pennsylvania truck accident claims can be challenging. Fortunately, you don't need to do it alone. The experienced personal injury lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, are available 24/7 to help you understand your legal options, gather necessary evidence, and build a strong case to secure the settlement you deserve.

Contact us now for a free legal review.