Truck accidents are no joke. Understanding what should be done afterward will help protect your health, legal standing, and money. The following article outlines easy steps to take if you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Kansas City.
1. Safety First
Safety is of utmost importance in case of any truck accident.
- Pull over if it is safe to do so.
- Turn on hazard lights to warn others.
- Step away from traffic or the truck.
- Check passengers and self for injury.
Call 911 immediately if injured. Emergency responders arrive in Kansas City quickly and give adequate care.
2. Call Police
A slow-speed truck accident still merits a police report.
- Police take down notes and record evidence.
- Take down the officer’s name, badge number, and report number.
- Do not admit fault or place blame too hastily.
A police report is required for court cases and insurance claims.
3. Obtain Medical Attention
Injuries may not be visible for hours or days.
- Get examined by a physician even if injuries appear minor.
- Keep a record of all treatments, medications, and therapy sessions.
- Listen to your doctor’s instructions carefully.
Medical reports establish personal injury claims and verify court cases.
4. Document the Accident
Good evidence makes your claim stronger.
- Document all the vehicles and damage neatly with photos.
- Document skid marks, road surface, and signs.
- Document witness names and telephone numbers.
- Have the truck driver’s number and insurance details handy.
Minor details help insurance companies or lawyers identify faults.
5. Report Your Insurance Company
Report your accident to your insurer immediately.
- Provide facts, not guesses.
- Don’t take blame or responsibility.
- Provide the police report and photos, if necessary.
- Make copies of everything.
Early notice makes it easier for your claim to be processed without delay.
6. Avoid Social Media Comment
Avoid commenting on the accident through social media.
- Avoid posting fault-related photos, videos, or statements.
- Insurance firms and lawyers usually track social media.
- Save facts for your lawyer or insurer alone.
Social media statements can affect your claim or lawsuit.
7. Obtain Legal Representation
There might be several parties in a truck accident.
- Truck companies generally have attorneys on their side.
- Your rights can be outlined by a Kansas City personal injury attorney.
- Attorneys assist in determining reasonable compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain.
You certainly should not retain an attorney for insignificant wrecks or short-term slip-ups.
8. Document Expenses and Losses
Log all of the accident expenses in detail.
- Medical fees, medication, and therapy.
- Cost of vehicle fix or rental car fees.
- Lost wages for time away from work or appointments.
Billable cost of recordings prevents partial payment by insurer or court judgment.
9. Learn About Kansas Truck Accident Laws
Kansas law governs truck accident claims.
- Truck drivers are governed by federal and state laws.
- Company liability can be caused by driver negligence.
- Statutes of limitation and reporting deadlines apply.
An experienced Kansas City Truck Accident Lawyer can explain the effect of Kansas law on your accident and claim.
10. Be Careful in Communicating
Communication after a truck accident must be protected.
- Speak only with your attorney and insurer.
- Do not make statements to the truck firm without an attorney.
- Put everything in writing.
Clear and good communication protects your rights and prevents misunderstandings.
11. Get Organized
Crashes are frightening, yet you are less stunned when prepared.
- Keep all documents, photographs, and contacts in one folder.
- Document medical visits, repairs, and lost wages.
- Don’t sign settlements until talking with an attorney’s advice.
Organizing prevents anything from being left out of your claim.
12. Know Insurance Adjusters
The insurer employs insurance adjusters, but you don’t.
- They will attempt to make a premature settlement that is too low.
- Don’t settle prior to seeing an attorney.
- Provide only facts when answering questions.
Being aware of this saves you from losing recovery.
13. Know Delayed Symptoms
All injuries aren’t apparent days or weeks after the accident.
- Whiplash, strain, and internal trauma may develop later.
- Maintain a pain or discomfort journal.
- Inform your lawyer and physician of the changes.
This record serves your case in the future.
14. Budget for Extended Recovery
Savage truck wrecks require lengthy recovery.
- Physical therapy, follow-up visits, or surgery may be required.
- Plan and budget to recover.
- Negotiate extended care payment with your attorney.
Planning reduces stress while recovering and ensures good care.
15. What Not to Do
- Denying injury – Injuries are not evident until later and then worsen.
- Taking fault – Leave fault up to police and insurers.
- Waiting to report – Timeliness prevents claims from being denied.
- Negotiation with the trucking company – They will try to cut payment.
- Loss of evidence – Pictures, video, and witness details are important.
Truck Accidents FAQs Kansas City
1. What do I do right away after a truck accident in Kansas City?
Get it to a safe place, dial 911 if necessary, inspect yourself for injuries, and call the police.
2. Do I need a Kansas truck accident lawyer?
Yes, particularly in the event of serious crashes or contested cases. Your legal rights are managed by a lawyer.
3. How long do I have to make a truck accident claim in Kansas?
Kansas law generally gives you two years from the accident, but talk to an attorney.
4. Am I allowed lost wages for a trucking accident?
Yes. Keep an accurate work time lost record and wages lost to support your claim.
5. Do I have to negotiate with the trucking company’s insurance adjuster?
No. Always have your attorney negotiate for you to avoid minimizing your claim.
Suggested Protocols
Truck accidents are complicated, dangerous situations. Many times, the best thing you can do is take precautions to protect your healthcare, rights, and finances (not necessarily in the order) as fast as you can. Call the police, preserve all of the evidence you can prior to leaving the scene or it being taken away, obtain medical care, and obtain legal process representation as quickly as you can. Slow everything down at that point, document everything you have lost, don’t give a statement, and don’t sign anything. This conduct will optimize your chances to receive fair compensation and also optimize the chances of a smoother recovery here in Kansas City.
