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What to Do After an 18-Wheeler Accident on Laredo’s Loop 20

Laredo, Texas, serves as one of the most significant transportation hubs in the United States due to its location on the U.S.-Mexico border. As a major crossroads for commercial trade, Laredo sees an abundance of 18-wheelers and large trucks passing through its streets and highways, especially on routes like Loop 20. With such heavy truck traffic, accidents involving 18-wheelers are unfortunately common, and they can result in severe injuries, property damage, and even fatalities.

If you find yourself involved in an 18-wheeler accident on Laredo’s Loop 20, it is critical to know what steps to take immediately after the accident. The moments following a collision are crucial in securing evidence, protecting your rights, and ensuring your safety. In this article, we will guide you through the essential steps you should follow after an 18-wheeler accident in Laredo.

1. Ensure Safety and Call Emergency Services

The first priority in any accident is ensuring your safety and the safety of others involved. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic, such as the shoulder of the road, to prevent further accidents. However, if the accident has caused significant damage or if you are unable to move your vehicle, leave the vehicle in place and turn on your hazard lights.
Once you are in a safe location (or if you cannot move), immediately call emergency services. Dial 911 to report the accident and request police, paramedics, or fire responders. It is important to report the crash as soon as possible because emergency responders will assess injuries, help with medical assistance, and ensure that traffic is redirected to avoid further accidents. The police will also document the scene, which is essential for any future insurance claims or legal actions.

2. Check for Injuries and Seek Medical Attention

After an 18-wheeler accident, injuries may not always be immediately visible or felt. Shock and adrenaline can mask pain, and sometimes injuries can appear hours or even days later. Therefore, it is essential to seek medical attention even if you feel fine immediately after the accident. If emergency medical personnel are at the scene, accept their offer for a medical evaluation.

In cases where you do not receive on-site treatment, make sure to see a doctor as soon as possible after the accident. Documenting your injuries early is crucial in building your case, whether for insurance claims or a potential lawsuit.

3. Gather Information and Document the Scene

The next critical step after a truck accident on Loop 20 is gathering as much information as possible about the accident. This documentation will be crucial for insurance claims, and if necessary, for legal action.

Exchange information: Get the names, contact details, and driver’s license information of all parties involved in the accident, including the 18-wheeler driver, other motorists, and witnesses. Make sure to also collect the truck driver’s insurance details, registration information, and the name of the trucking company.

Take photos: Use your phone or a camera to take as many photographs as possible of the accident scene. Capture the damage to all vehicles involved, the surrounding area, traffic signals, road conditions, skid marks, and any visible injuries. Photographs of the truck itself, including its license plate and company logos, are important for identifying the responsible party.

Note the road conditions: Document the conditions on Loop 20 at the time of the accident. Were there any construction zones? Was the weather poor or were there road hazards like debris or potholes that contributed to the accident? This information could help establish the cause of the crash.

Police report: When law enforcement arrives, they will document their findings in an official report. This report will be vital for your case, so make sure to request a copy from the police officer or department handling the investigation.

4. Avoid Discussing Fault at the Scene

It is natural to feel overwhelmed and emotional after an accident, but it is important to refrain from discussing fault or liability at the scene. Do not admit fault, make apologies, or blame others, even if you feel responsible or are uncertain. The facts of the accident are often more complex than they appear at first glance. In the case of an 18-wheeler accident, multiple factors could be involved, such as the truck driver’s fatigue, mechanical failure, road conditions, or negligence of the trucking company.

Statements made at the scene can be used against you in court or by insurance companies. Instead, focus on gathering information, ensuring everyone’s safety, and letting law enforcement and insurance companies handle the investigation.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company

Once you’ve ensured your safety and documented the scene, you should notify your insurance company about the accident. Most insurance policies require prompt reporting of accidents, and failing to do so may harm your ability to file a claim. When reporting the incident, be concise and factual about what happened, but do not admit fault or speculate about the cause of the accident.

Your insurance company will likely ask for a copy of the police report, photographs, and other relevant information. Be sure to provide them with all the documentation you’ve collected. If you’re not sure about what to say, or if you’re uncomfortable handling the details on your own, consider contacting a lawyer before you communicate with your insurer.

6. Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accidents are often more complex than regular car accidents due to the involvement of commercial vehicles, large trucking companies, and federal regulations governing the trucking industry. An experienced 18-wheeler accident lawyer in Laredo will help you navigate the legal complexities of such cases.

Hiring a truck accident lawyer ensures that your rights are protected, especially when dealing with large insurance companies or trucking firms that may try to minimize your compensation. Your lawyer will investigate the accident, gather evidence, consult experts if necessary, and represent you in negotiations or court proceedings.

Truck accident lawyers are familiar with the common tactics used by insurance companies to reduce payouts and can advocate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.

7. Understand the Importance of Timely Legal Action

After an accident on Loop 20, it’s important to understand the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in Texas. Typically, the statute of limitations for truck accident claims in Texas is two years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your ability to pursue compensation for your injuries.

In some cases, depending on the complexity of the case and the parties involved, there may be exceptions or extended deadlines. A lawyer will help ensure that all paperwork is filed on time and that your case is presented effectively to maximize your chances of a successful outcome.

8. Keep a Record of All Expenses and Medical Treatment

As your medical treatments progress, keep track of all expenses related to your injuries. This includes doctor’s visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, physical therapy, and any other medical treatments. Additionally, document any lost wages due to your inability to work as a result of the accident. Keeping a detailed record will help your lawyer build your case and ensure you are compensated for your economic losses.

Being involved in an 18-wheeler accident on Laredo’s Loop 20 can be a traumatic and confusing experience. However, by following the proper steps—securing safety, calling emergency services, gathering information, and contacting an experienced lawyer—you can protect your rights and improve your chances of receiving fair compensation. Navigating the aftermath of such a significant accident can be challenging, but with the right legal support, you can recover both physically and financially. Always remember, your safety and well-being come first, and taking prompt action will ensure that you can hold those responsible accountable for the damage caused.

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