Truck accidents can be devastating, especially when they involve multiple vehicles. The aftermath of a truck accident can be complicated, and investigating the accident is crucial in determining who is at fault and who is liable for damages. In South Carolina, truck accidents are common, and knowing how to investigate them is essential.
Here are some steps to follow when investigating a South Carolina truck accident:
Seek medical attention
The first step after any accident is to seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, it is essential to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries may not manifest until days or even weeks later. Moreover, medical records will provide a detailed account of your injuries, which can be important in determining damages.
Call the police
After an accident, call the police immediately. The police will arrive at the scene and file an accident report. The report will include details about the accident, including any injuries, damage to the vehicles, and the parties involved.
Document the scene
If possible, take pictures of the scene of the accident. Include pictures of the vehicles involved, any debris, and skid marks. Documenting the scene can help reconstruct the accident and provide critical evidence in determining fault.
Get witness statements
If there were witnesses to the accident, get their names and contact information. Witness statements can be valuable in determining what happened and who is at fault.
Hire an attorney
Truck accidents can be complicated, and it is essential to have legal representation. A skilled truck accident attorney can help investigate the accident, negotiate with insurance companies, and file a lawsuit if necessary.
Investigate the trucking company
In many truck accidents, the trucking company may be liable. Investigating the trucking company can reveal any safety violations, driver logs, and maintenance records. This information can be critical in determining liability.
File a claim
Once you have completed your investigation, you can file a claim with the trucking company’s insurance company. Your attorney can help you negotiate a settlement or file a lawsuit if necessary.
Consider hiring an accident reconstruction expert
If the cause of the accident is not clear, an accident reconstruction expert may be necessary. Accident reconstruction experts use advanced techniques to determine how the accident occurred and who is at fault. They can analyze data such as skid marks, vehicle speed, and damage patterns to reconstruct the accident.
Review the truck driver’s qualifications and driving history
In addition to investigating the trucking company, it is also important to review the truck driver’s qualifications and driving history. Look for any red flags, such as a history of accidents or traffic violations, or lack of proper licensing or training.
Preserve evidence
Preserving evidence is crucial in any accident investigation. This includes the vehicles involved in the accident, any debris, and any physical evidence from the scene. Your attorney can help ensure that all evidence is properly collected and preserved for use in your case.
Be cautious when speaking with insurance companies
Insurance companies will likely contact you after the accident. It is important to be cautious when speaking with them and avoid giving any statements that could be used against you. Your attorney can communicate with the insurance companies on your behalf and protect your rights.
Keep track of expenses and damages
Keep track of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. This information can be used to determine the damages you are entitled to.
Investigating a South Carolina truck accident can be a complex and time-consuming process. It is important to work with an experienced attorney who can guide you through the investigation and protect your rights. By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can increase your chances of a successful outcome.
As a law firm based in South Carolina, we at Nimmons Malchow Johnson Injury Lawyers specialize in personal injury cases, including truck accidents. With years of experience, we have helped many clients investigate and litigate truck accident cases in South Carolina.
We conduct a thorough investigation of the accident, collecting evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records. We also investigate the trucking company and driver’s qualifications and driving history. If necessary, we work with accident reconstruction experts to determine the cause of the accident.
We understand that insurance companies will likely contact you after the accident. That’s why we can communicate with the insurance companies on your behalf and protect your rights. We will ensure that you do not give any statements that could be used against you.
If necessary, we will file a claim or lawsuit on your behalf. We will negotiate with the insurance companies for a fair settlement or take the case to trial if necessary. We will help you recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. We keep track of all expenses related to the accident and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
If you have been involved in a truck accident in South Carolina, we can help you investigate and litigate your case. Contact us at Nimmons Malchow Johnson Injury Lawyers for a free consultation.