Steps to Take After an 18-Wheeler Accident in South Carolina

Truck safety remains a serious problem. According to a report from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS), nearly 7,000 semi-truck accidents are reported statewide yearly. If you are involved in a collision, you must know how to protect your health, safety, and legal rights. Our accident attorney explains what you should do immediately after being involved in a crash in South Carolina.

Step #1: Pull Over and Report the Truck Accident

The moments after a truck accident are chaotic. Your heart and mind are racing, and you may not even be sure what just happened. First and foremost, you should stop your vehicle, remain at the scene of the truck accident unless there is a medical emergency, and call the police. All truck accidents in South Carolina should be reported to law enforcement. It is in your best interests to ensure that a crash is reported to the police right away. You can call 911 at the scene of the accident.

Step #2: Seek Immediate Medical Care for Any Injuries

A tractor-trailer in South Carolina can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Many truck accidents result in serious injuries. A doctor should evaluate all physical injuries. You may be more badly hurt than you initially think. Adrenaline surges through your body right after a crash, often masking pain. Make sure that you go to the doctor right away.

Step #3: Documenting the Truck Accident

South Carolina is a fault-based motor vehicle accident state, including for semi-truck crashes. Everything often feels like a blur at the scene of a collision. You are overwhelmed and trying to process what just happened, but if you can, you should take a deep breath and start gathering evidence. Take pictures of the vehicles, your injuries, road conditions, and visible damage. You should also try to get contact information for any witnesses.

Step #4: Notify Your Own Insurance Company

You may not know what to say or who to call first, but one step is crucial—notify your insurer as soon as possible. In most cases, your insurance policy will include some form of language that requires you to inform them after a crash, even if it was not your fault.

Step #5: Consult With a South Carolina Truck Accident Lawyer

It is normal to be stressed out and confused. At this point, you may be facing medical bills, insurance calls, and uncertainty about your next steps. Do not go it alone: An experienced South Carolina truck accident lawyer can make all the difference.

Contact Our Truck Accident Lawyer in Florence, SC Today

At D. Craig Brown, LLC, our team is standing by, ready to help. If you or your loved one was hurt in a commercial truck crash, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a fully confidential consultation. With an office in Florence, we represent injured truck accident victims throughout South Carolina.