The PA Turnpike is a critical truck route across the state. Connecting Pittsburgh to Philadelphia with dozens of towns along the way, it is not uncommon to see tractor-trailers on the roadway with you. With a speed limit of 70 miles per hour, those fast-moving trucks weighing up to 80,000 pounds can put your life at risk if a driver is tired or loses control.
Knowing what to do after a truck accident on the PA Turnpike is essential. Use the following steps to obtain medical and legal support from a truck accident lawyer promptly after your incident.
Pull to the Side of the Road
Because traffic will continue to pass an accident, try to pull your vehicle to the side of the road after a truck accident. Do not put yourself in additional harm’s way to do so. Do not leave the scene of the accident, but move out of the way of oncoming traffic.
Call 911
A dispatcher will get medical care to you faster than anyone else can. Follow the dispatcher’s directions for caring for any injuries you or the other parties involved have. If it is safe to do so, check on the truck driver and offer assistance if you can. Medical care from the city you are closest to will arrive to provide help, whether that is Norristown, Allentown, or King of Prussia.
Gather Information and Evidence of What Happened
Photos are one of the most important tools available to you later to prove what happened and who is at fault. Take photos of:
- The truck, including where the vehicle struck your vehicle
- Your vehicle and all sustained damage
- Injuries you have
- Road conditions
- Weather conditions
- Any debris in the roadway
Use your camera to take a video of the surrounding area as well. This helps to capture the layout of the area and makes it far easier for you to explain what happened, where, and how later.
Get the Truck Driver’s Information
Exchange insurance information with the truck driver and any other party involved in the accident. You should request their name, contact information, and insurance carrier details. Truck drivers may be leery of offering this information, but doing so is legally required, even if there is no significant damage present.
While speaking to the truck driver and later the police who responded to the accident, there are several factors to keep in mind:
- Do not apologize for the accident. Even if you did something that led to it, apologizing is an acceptance of fault.
- Do not state what you were doing at the time of the accident. For example, avoid making statements such as “I just looked up” or “I did not see you behind me.”
- Always share only the facts of the case. Avoid speculation, such as stating you think the truck driver was using their phone or speeding.
- Never distort the facts. Just be honest.
- Avoid stating what your injuries are. If you claim to be fine, it could lead to questioning of injuries that develop later.
Whether you are in the Downingtown area, the Great Valley region, or in areas such as Malvern, Frazer, or Exton, it is crucial to be aware of your surroundings. Truckers and their insurance companies will use all the information you provide against you, often shifting the blame from them to you.
Get Medical Care Right Away
It is always important to seek medical help immediately after an accident. By going to the hospital or urgent care after the accident, you can undergo a thorough examination. This could pinpoint injuries that are not always immediately obvious, such as whiplash, muscle and ligament damage, and spinal cord injuries. You may not know you have internal bleeding or a traumatic brain injury for hours after the accident.
By seeking medical care promptly, you also document that the accident with the truck caused these injuries. That helps substantiate your claim for compensation later. There are numerous medical centers along the PA Turnpike, including in Montgomery and Chester counties.
Once you get medical care, follow through on all recommended treatments and supportive care. Document any costs you pay out of pocket for your care.
Call a Truck Accident Lawyer Right Away
After you receive medical care, you will need to alert the trucking company of the accident and your injuries. However, it is not beneficial at this point to file a claim. You simply need to alert them to the incident and tell them you retained legal help.
By working with a truck accident lawyer right away, you minimize the risk of evidence becoming lost or insurance companies denying your claims. There is so much on the line for truck companies – they will do all they can to say you were at fault. Your attorney protects your right to recover damages after these tragic accidents.
Turn to a Team You Can Rely on for PA Turnpike Truck Accidents
With decades of experience serving Chester and Montgomery counties, including with PA Turnpike accidents, Kwartler Manus is your trusted advocate. Contact us now to request a free consultation.