Being in any car accident can be a traumatic experience. However, an accident involving a semi-truck brings its own unique set of challenges. Semi-trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Their massive size means the damage from an accident is likely to be severe. Surviving the crash is just the first step to recovering from this ordeal.
Assessing Your Injuries
After a semi-truck collision, your adrenaline will be pumping. Take some deep breaths to calm yourself and take stock of any injuries. Carefully move your neck and limbs to see if you have full range of motion without sharp pains. If you can’t move or feel intense pain, you may have broken bones or internal damage. Bleeding wounds will need immediate attention to stop blood loss. Stay as still as possible while rescuers work to get you safely out of the wreckage.
Seeking Medical Care
Even if you feel fine initially, it’s crucial to get checked out by medical professionals. The extreme forces involved in semi collisions can cause hidden internal injuries that may not show symptoms right away. These can become life-threatening if left untreated. Let the EMTs transport you to the nearest hospital emergency room. Be prepared to describe all your symptoms and the specifics of the accident to aid the diagnosis. You’ll likely undergo X-rays, CT scans and other imaging tests to assess bone fractures, organ damage, head trauma and spinal cord injuries.
Coping Emotionally
In addition to physical recovery, you’ll need to cope with the emotional fallout of this trauma. Getting back behind the wheel or even riding as a passenger again may stir up fear and anxiety. Feeling jittery or on edge is common after an accident. Have patience with yourself as you process what you’ve been through. Talk to friends, family members or a counselor about your experience. Expressing your thoughts can help diffuse some of their negative power over you. As time passes, the emotions should become less intense. If they persist at a severe level, seek help from a licensed therapist.
Navigating Insurance Claims
The paperwork and insurance claims processing can also be stressful after a truck accident. Document everything related to the collision, including medical reports, missed wages from lost work and contact info of witnesses. Big rig truck companies and their insurance providers are savvy about denying or minimizing claims. Having detailed records gives your attorney solid evidence to demand fair compensation.
Deciding Whether to Sue
You shouldn’t have to pay out-of-pocket for an accident that wasn’t your fault. After a truck crash, many victims face enormous medical bills and vehicle repair/replacement costs that insurance won’t fully cover. Plus, you deserve financial compensation for your pain and suffering. Consulting with an experienced truck accident attorney helps you understand all your legal options. A reputable lawyer from Scarlett Law Group will negotiate with insurers on your behalf and take legal action if warranted. We deal with all the legalese so you can focus on healing.
The aftermath of surviving a semi-truck collision is full of challenges, both physical and mental. Give yourself plenty of time to recover holistically. Don’t hesitate to enlist help from medical teams, counselors, and legal professionals. With the right support, you can move forward from this ordeal. The process starts with that first phone call to us, as we can protect your rights after this traumatic event.
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