If you have been on the road in Virginia, you have seen the plethora of semi-trucks that utilize the Virginia highways. Some call them 18-wheelers; others call them big-rigs. Whatever you call them, sharing the road with these large trucks is an inevitable part of driving in the Commonwealth. Unfortunately, accidents with semi-trucks also occur frequently.
What To Do After a Truck Accident
If you are involved in an accident with a semi-truck in Virginia, you should know the following tips:
- First and foremost, seek medical attention when necessary. You may think everything is fine, but serious internal injuries can show up later.
- If you are able, notify the police.
- Exchange information with any drivers involved. Make sure you have their name, driver’s license number, and insurance information.
- Make note of the road, lighting, and weather conditions at the time of the accident.
- Take notes from any witnesses that are able to stop and give information about what they saw.
- Report the incident to your insurance agency.
- Retain copies of any information obtained at the scene of the accident, and keep them in a secure location.
- Do not sign any documents summarizing the facts of the accident according to other drivers.
- Do not allow anyone to question you regarding the event without consulting a car and truck accident attorney in Virginia.
Semi-truck accidents are different from other accidents. Truck drivers and the companies that employ them are held to strict state and federal regulations. There are a number of factors that can contribute to a semi-truck accident in Virginia, including speed, fatigue, substance abuse, overloaded freight, and many others. Violations of any of these regulations can establish the basis for fault in an accident.
Get Help Today
If you or someone you know has been involved in a semi-truck accident in Virginia, contact the car accident attorneys at Shevlin Smith. Call 703-721-4233 today! We have the experience and knowledge necessary to deal with insurance and trucking companies on your behalf.