What to Do Immediately After a Truck Accident in Atlanta
Truck accidents in Atlanta are among the most terrifying and destructive crashes. Between potentially serious personal injuries, extensive property damage, and issues with insurers, the aftermath can be completely overwhelming. However, your actions during this time are critical for protecting your health, legal rights, and financial recovery.
Our experienced Atlanta truck accident lawyers protect victims throughout Georgia and outline the steps you need to take, as well as what to avoid, immediately after a crash.
Involved In An Atlanta Truck Accident? Take These Steps
The Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety warns that truck accidents in Atlanta pose serious threats to all motorists. Whether you are involved in an Atlanta truck accident on I-285, I-20, or other busy city streets, what you do in the minutes and hours after the crash can impact your health and your ability to recover compensation. Follow our step-by-step guide:
- Call 911 Immediately: Request police assistance and medical care if anyone is injured. A police report serves as vital documentation of the crash.
- Watch What You Say: Avoid making statements that admit fault or speculate about the cause. Even a casual “I’m sorry” could be twisted against you later.
- Get Contact Information: Collect names, phone numbers, and insurance details from the trucker, other drivers, and any witnesses. Be sure to record the name of the trucking company and the DOT number.
- Document the Scene: If it’s safe and you are able to do so, take pictures of the vehicles, license plates, visible injuries, skid marks, road signs, and the surrounding area.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t think you’re seriously hurt, adrenaline can mask serious symptoms.
- Preserve Evidence: Keep copies of all crash-related documents, including medical bills, repair estimates, and written communications.
What NOT to Say After An Atlanta Truck Accident
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration warns that the damages to other drivers caused by truck crashes can easily total seven figures. However, trucking companies have teams of lawyers and insurers working to minimize liability and protect their bottom line. To protect yourself and your rights in a claim, here’s what not to do during this difficult time:
- Don’t give a recorded statement to the trucking company or its insurance provider without getting legal help first.
- Don’t accept a quick settlement offer, which is often far less than what you actually need to recover.
- Don’t sign anything, especially medical release forms or waivers, without having your lawyer review it.
- Don’t post about the accident on social media. Anything you share can be used against you by insurance companies.
Contact Our Experienced Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyers Today
At Shiver Hamilton, LLC, we’ve earned a reputation for standing up to trucking companies in Georgia and fighting to get victims and their families the compensation they need to recover. We represent clients throughout Georgia, including Alpharetta, Decatur, Marietta, Savannah, and all of Gwinnett, Fulton, and DeKalb Counties. Call or contact our Atlanta truck accident lawyer today to request a consultation.
Sources:
gahighwaysafety.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2021-Large-Trucks-Georgia-Traffic-Safety-Facts.pdf
fmcsa.dot.gov/sites/fmcsa.dot.gov/files/docs/UnitCostsTruck%20Crashes2007.pdf
