Living in Santa Fe, New Mexico, means sharing the roads with large commercial trucks, which can pose a significant risk to motorists. Unfortunately, accidents involving trucks are common, and they can result in serious injuries or even fatalities.
As a resident of Santa Fe involved in a truck accident, there are key steps you need to take after a truck accident to protect yourself, your family, and your finances.
In this article, we’ll outline the essential steps you need to take after a truck accident to ensure that your interests are protected and that you find Santa Fe lawyers who can help you receive the compensation you need to move forward.
Contact Emergency Services
The primary step after an accident is to assess the conditions of the involved parties and call emergency services in case anyone has sustained a severe injury.
Even if you feel okay, it’s still important to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries may not be apparent, and the adrenaline from the accident can numb the pain from sustained injuries. Plus, not seeking medical attention could dent your chances of receiving compensation.
Call the Police
Once you’ve received medical attention, you should call the police so they can file an official report. The report will document the details of the accident, including the time, date, location, and the vehicles involved. As such, it can be useful in determining fault and liability.
Documenting the Scene of the Accident
The next step which can also prove preemptive in the future is to take photos of the accident scene. So, it’s important to take them as soon as possible.
Take photos of the damage to your vehicle, the other vehicles involved, the surrounding area, and any injuries you’ve sustained. If you’re unable to take photos, ask someone else to do it for you.
You should also write down everything you remember about the accident as soon as possible. This includes the time, date, and location of the accident, the insurance and contact information of the other driver, the direction the vehicles were traveling, and any other details you can recall.
If possible, make note of any witnesses to the accident, including their names and contact information. This will help your lawyer build a strong case on your behalf.
Hire the Services of Santa Fe Lawyers
After a truck accident, it’s important to contact experienced truck accident Sante Fe lawyers as soon as possible. They will listen to your case and determine whether you have a legitimate claim. They will also explain how much you can expect in compensation depending on the extent of your injuries and losses.
That said, it’s important to look for Santa Fe lawyers experienced in truck accident cases specifically. These cases can be more complex than other types of personal injury cases, and you want to ensure that your lawyer has the expertise to handle your case effectively.
Dealing with insurance companies and filing a claim
After a truck accident, you’ll need to deal with insurance companies to file a claim for compensation.
It’s important to remember that insurance companies are in the business of making money, and they may try to minimize your claim or deny it altogether. This is why it’s important to have expert Santa Fe lawyers on your side.
Your lawyer can negotiate with the insurance companies and help you file a lawsuit if need be. It’s important to remember that there is a statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit in New Mexico, so it’s important to act quickly after a truck accident.
In Conclusion
The aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming. Not only are you dealing with physical and emotional trauma, but you’re also faced with the stress of handling insurance claims, medical bills, and legal proceedings.
Therefore, it’s important to take the right steps to protect your legal rights so you can get your life back on track.