Just after a crash with a semi-truck accident, it is only understandable to feel shaken up and afraid of what might happen. Pain may set in, you may be notice possible injuries, and you may even feel shock. In the moment, it can be difficult to know what to do. Your first priority should be to call 911 so emergency medical technicians and law enforcement can come to the scene.
Call the Police
EMTs play an important role after a car accident, as they can identify who needs emergency trauma care and can stabilize injuries at the scene or in an ambulance. However, police officers who respond to a 911 call can help as well. Officers will assess the scene and talk to the drivers involved, making initial determinations regarding what happened.
If an officer speaks with the truck driver who hit you or with witnesses, the officer may issue a citation for speeding, distracted driving, or other traffic violations. Observations about the driver may lead the officer to believe the driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which may lead to an arrest and criminal charges for operating while intoxicated. Such citations and criminal cases may help truck accident victims in a later civil matter. While an officer’s determination of who caused an accident is not the final say, it can support your account that a truck driver was at fault.
Speaking With Police Officers
Officers will want to talk to everyone involved. While answering their questions, avoid saying things like, “I’m sorry—I didn’t see the truck!” or “I only looked away from the road for a second.” These statements can be used against you by a truck driver and trucking company to try to avoid liability. If you were, in fact, partially liable, you still may have important legal rights to compensation in Indiana. Your attorney can handle questions about your own partial liability later in your case.
Instead of offering additional information, answer the officer’s questions simply and to the best of your ability. If you are not sure of something, try not to guess—instead, simply say you are not sure. If you guess at something and then later change your mind, the truck driver, trucking company, or their insurance companies may use your initial answers against you.
Check the accuracy of any police reports filed about the incident. Police sometimes misinterpret notes or make mistakes that, from your point of view, result in an inaccurate version of events. Your attorney can assist you in obtaining your crash report and amending the information if needed.
An Indianapolis Truck Accident Attorney Can Help You
The Law Office of Hurst Limontes LLC handles complex truck accident cases in the Indianapolis area. After your injuries stabilize, please do not hesitate to consult with our law firm regarding your legal options. Please call a skilled truck accident lawyer at (317) 636-0808 or contact us online today to discuss your rights for free.