What to Do After a Rear-End Truck Accident in MS

If you’ve been involved in a rear-end truck accident in Mississippi, you must know what steps to take to protect yourself and your legal rights. These types of accidents can be complex and may involve serious injuries, so taking prompt action is essential.

Luckily, you don’t have to navigate this time alone. The team at Reeves & Mestayer is committed to helping you explore your options. Call our Biloxi personal injury team at 228-374-5151 to set up a consultation right away.

Immediately After the Accident: Ensuring Safety and Reporting the Incident

Following a rear-end truck accident in Mississippi, your top concern should be the safety of everyone involved. Call 911; while some vehicle crashes can be reported to a non-emergency line, all truck crashes are emergencies. Not only does this action report the accident to the authorities, but it also ensures that anyone who needs medical help gets it promptly. 

Documenting the Scene and Gathering Evidence

Capturing the scene and collecting proof is key after a rear-end collision. This means exchanging details with the truck driver, like names, company name, insurance details, and license plate numbers. 

It’s also a smart move to gather contact information from any witnesses who saw what happened. Take a moment to record your observations about the weather, the state of the road, and any other factors that could have played a role in the accident. This evidence can be crucial when it comes to proving who was at fault. You can also use this time to take photos and video footage from multiple angles and distances.

Exchange Information but Limit Discussion About the Accident

While you do have to exchange contact information, be cautious about what you say regarding the accident. Engaging in too much conversation or expressing opinions about how the accident occurred could lead to unintended consequences. Even a well-meaning comment could be misinterpreted and used against you in future discussions or legal proceedings. It’s best to stick to the essential information exchange and avoid delving into discussions about the accident’s circumstances. This careful approach helps safeguard your interests and prevents you from sabotaging your case.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

If you’re walking away feeling fine, you may feel like a medical checkup is unnecessary. However, this could be a big mistake. Certain injuries, like whiplash and even internal bleeding, might not show any symptoms right away but can lead to significant issues down the line if they’re not addressed promptly. It’s absolutely crucial to get a medical evaluation as soon as possible after the incident. 

By doing this, not only are you taking care of your health, but you’re also creating a documented record of any injuries related to the accident. Remember, truck accidents are more severe than car accidents, and the likelihood of serious injuries is far higher. This documentation can prove invaluable when it comes to insurance claims and potential legal actions. It’s also important to keep a detailed account of any medical treatments, consultations, and follow-ups you have. Adhering to your healthcare provider’s advice is essential, not just for your physical recovery, but also to ensure your legal rights are fully protected.

Understanding Compensation and Legal Rights in MS

Exploring your legal options after a crash may result in compensation that could cover your medical costs, make up for lost income, and ease your pain and suffering. It’s important, though, to act quickly. The truck driver’s company and the company’s legal team will go into action right away, looking for ways to minimize their liability and protect their financial best interests. You also need to take immediate action to protect your own interests and ensure that you have the compensation you need to recover from your accident. Before you discuss anything with the truck company or their insurance provider, talk to a truck accident lawyer about your options.

Start Your Truck Accident Claim with Reeves & Mestayer

When you’re ready to discuss your truck accident and find out if you’re entitled to compensation, we are here to help. Our team will learn more about your collision and help you know what to expect. Just contact us online or call us at 228-374-5151 to schedule a consultation now.