After a truck accident in South Carolina, the most important thing to do first is to make sure everyone is safe. If your car is in the middle of the road and it is safe to move, try to pull over to the side. Turn on your hazard lights. If you are hurt or someone else is injured, do not try to move them. Call 911 right away and wait for help. It is okay to feel scared or confused, but staying calm can help you think clearly and protect yourself and others.
Call the Police Right Away
Even if the crash does not look serious, you should call the police. In South Carolina, it is required by law to report any accident that causes injury or a lot of damage. When the officers arrive, they will write a report. This report is very important later if you need help with insurance or if there is a legal issue. Make sure to get the name and badge number of the officer. You should also ask how to get a copy of the report once it is ready.
Check Yourself and Others for Injuries
Some injuries might not hurt right away. Your body might be full of adrenaline after the crash, and you may not notice pain until later. Still, if you feel dizzy, sore, or sick, tell the emergency workers. They can check you at the scene or take you to the hospital. If you do not go to the hospital right away, make an appointment with your doctor as soon as you can. It is important to have a record of your injuries so you can show that they were caused by the accident.
Take Pictures and Write Down What Happened
If it is safe, take pictures of everything. You can use your phone to take pictures of your car, the truck, the road, any signs, and anything else that helps show what happened. Try to get pictures from different angles. Also, write down what you remember. Think about the time, the weather, what you saw right before the crash, and what happened right after. This can be very helpful later because memories fade over time.
Get Information from the Truck Driver and Witnesses
It is important to get the truck driver’s name, phone number, insurance company, and license plate number. You should also ask what company they work for. Some trucks are owned by big companies, and this can make a difference in your case. If there are people who saw what happened, ask for their names and phone numbers too. Witnesses can help explain what really happened if someone else tells a different story.
Do Not Talk About Who Was at Fault
After a crash, you might want to say “I’m sorry” even if it wasn’t your fault. Try not to say anything about who caused the accident. Do not talk about details with the other driver. What you say can be used later in ways you did not expect. It is better to wait until you talk to someone who understands how to help people after truck accidents in South Carolina.
Let Your Insurance Company Know
You should tell your insurance company about the accident as soon as you can. They will ask for details about what happened. Be honest, but do not guess if you are not sure about something. Just say you are still finding out the facts. They might ask for pictures or the police report. If the trucking company’s insurance calls you, you do not have to talk to them. You can say you are not ready to speak until you have talked to someone who can guide you.
Keep All of Your Records in One Place
Save everything related to the accident. This includes the police report, pictures, medical records, bills, car repair receipts, and letters from the insurance companies. Keep them in a folder so you do not lose them. This will make things much easier if you need to show proof of what happened or what it cost you.
Watch for Signs of Injury Days or Weeks Later
Sometimes, injuries like back pain, neck pain, or headaches do not show up right away. If you start to feel worse after a few days, go see a doctor. Tell them that you were in a truck accident and when it happened. It is important to connect your new symptoms to the crash. This will help you get care and may also help your case if you are trying to recover money for your injuries.
Do Not Post About the Accident on Social Media
You might want to tell your friends on Facebook or post pictures on Instagram, but it is better not to say anything online. Insurance companies and trucking companies can look at your posts. Even something that seems small or harmless can be used against you. It is best to stay quiet on social media until everything is finished.
Be Careful About Taking Quick Settlement Offers
Sometimes, insurance companies will offer you money right away. It may seem like a good idea to accept it, especially if you are missing work or your bills are piling up. But these offers are often less than what you really need. Once you accept the money, you usually cannot ask for more, even if you later learn that your injuries are worse than you thought. That is why it is important to get help before you sign anything.
Truck Accidents Are Different from Regular Car Wrecks
Crashes with big trucks are not the same as crashes with cars. Trucks are larger and can cause more damage. Also, trucking companies must follow special rules. If a driver was too tired, speeding, or driving a truck that was not safe, that could change who is responsible. There may be more than one person or company involved. Finding out the truth can take time and effort, and it often involves looking at driver logs, maintenance records, and more.
It Is Important to Know Your Rights After a Truck Accident
Many people do not know what they can ask for after a truck crash. In South Carolina, you may be able to get money for your medical bills, lost pay, pain and suffering, and damage to your car. But to do that, you have to show that the accident caused your injuries and losses. That can be hard to prove without the right help. If you wait too long, you might also miss important deadlines for taking legal action.
Take the Next Step to Protect Yourself and Your Future
If you or someone you care about was hurt in a truck accident in South Carolina, do not wait to get the help you need. You deserve to understand your options and protect your rights. The choices you make now can affect your health, your money, and your peace of mind. At McCutchen Vaught Geddie & Hucks, P.A., we can talk with you, listen to what happened, and help you take the right steps forward. Reach out today and let us help you move toward recovery with confidence.