Trucks are a major feature on US roads and highways, transporting goods and materials across the state and beyond. In 2021, there were 523,796 truck accidents, but thankfully, only 310,000 of them involved fatalities. Florida recorded 393,657 crashes in 2023
Getting into any kind of vehicle accident can be scary and stressful. However, colliding with a large commercial truck, also known as an 18-wheeler, semi, or big rig, can result in catastrophic injuries and tremendous property damage due to their massive size and weight. For a truck to be classed as a large truck, it must have a weight rating of 10,000+ pounds. Trucks this large account for 9% of all fatal crashes in the US. In Florida, there were more than 33k accidents involving large trucks in 2021,
If you are unfortunate enough to get into an accident with an 18-wheeler in Stuart, Florida, Jordan Wagner, an experienced Stuart truck accident lawyer, shares what you should do afterward.
Move to a Safe Location
If your car is still safe to drive, carefully move it out of the way of the traffic lanes. If not, move yourself and any passengers to an area safely away from your vehicle and oncoming traffic. Avoid walking into lanes, and watch for passing cars and trucks. Turn on your hazard lights and set up roadside reflectors or flares if you have them.
Call the Police After the Truck Accident
You’ll want to contact the police to officially report the crash and get a formal accident report filed. In Florida, all wrecks involving damages over $500 must be reported. The report is critical for insurance and possible legal claims later. Give the exact street location and direction and let them know there are no injuries. Call emergency services if medical assistance is needed. Exchange insurance and contact details with the truck driver afterward.
Document the Accident Scene
While waiting for the police to arrive, take pictures of the accident scene from different angles showing the final position of the vehicles involved and any property damage sustained—photograph skid marks on the roadway and the license plates of the trucks and trailers. Getting clear documentation early helps accurately establish what transpired.
Get Witness Statements
If there were any eyewitnesses to the collision, obtain their contact information, including full names, phone numbers, and addresses. Ask them for a written statement briefly describing what they saw happen for your records. Credible third-party accounts often help resolve disputes over who was later at fault.
Consult a Truck Accident Attorney
Crashes with large 18-wheelers can lead to expensive claims and legal fights with insurance carriers, given the beefy trucks and potential for bodily harm. Consult Stuart truck accident lawyers to protect your rights and build a case for fair compensation. They have expertise in navigating state and federal trucking regulations. Most offer free initial consultations and only collect fees if they secure damages for you.
Getting into a collision with a massive 18-wheeler can quickly turn into a nightmare. Following these steps helps ensure you have recourse and can get your life back to normal as expediently as possible. Stay safe out there, Stuart drivers!