Semi-truck collisions are some of the most catastrophic accidents on the road. Given their size and weight, commercial trucks can cause life-altering injuries, extensive property damage, and long-term consequences for victims and their families. If you’ve been injured in a crash involving a semi-truck, knowing what steps to take—right from the start—can make a major difference in your physical recovery and legal outcome.
At NGK Law Firm, we’ve helped countless individuals across Missouri hold trucking companies accountable and secure the compensation they need. Below is a guide outlining the key steps you should follow if you're injured in a semi-truck accident.
1. Call 911 and Report the Accident
The first step is to ensure everyone’s safety and contact emergency services. A police report is crucial evidence in a truck accident case. It helps establish the scene, document what occurred, and identify all involved parties.
Let the dispatcher know if there are injuries and request medical assistance if needed. Even if your injuries seem minor, don’t refuse treatment at the scene—you may be more seriously hurt than you realize.
2. Gather Evidence at the Scene (If You Can)
If you're physically able and it’s safe to do so, try to collect evidence at the scene:
- Take photos or video of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and visible injuries.
- Get the names, contact information, and insurance details of the truck driver and any other drivers involved.
- Collect contact information for any witnesses.
This documentation may become critical in establishing liability, especially in cases where the trucking company or driver tries to shift blame.
3. Get Medical Care Right Away
Some injuries—like head trauma, spinal damage, or internal bleeding—may not present symptoms immediately. Always see a medical professional as soon as possible after the accident, even if you feel “okay.”
Prompt medical documentation links your injuries directly to the crash and forms a key part of your legal claim. Follow all treatment plans and keep records of doctor visits, prescriptions, and therapy.
4. Do Not Talk to the Trucking Company’s Insurance Adjusters
It’s very common for insurance representatives to contact you after an accident, sometimes within hours. They may seem helpful—but their job is to protect the trucking company’s bottom line.
Avoid giving recorded statements or signing any documents without speaking to an attorney. You’re under no obligation to talk to the other party’s insurance adjuster, and doing so could hurt your claim.
5. Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney
Truck accident cases are far more complex than standard car accidents. Federal and state laws regulate commercial trucking. Multiple parties may be involved, including the driver, the trucking company, maintenance providers, or cargo loaders.
At NGK Law Firm, we have the resources and legal experience to investigate every angle of a semi-truck collision. We quickly secure black box data, maintenance logs, driver records, and other critical evidence that can disappear if not preserved early on.
6. Understand What You May Be Entitled To
If you’ve been injured due to a truck driver’s negligence—or a company’s failure to comply with safety standards—you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Long-term disability or disfigurement
Our legal team can help you understand the full scope of your claim and work to ensure you are not shortchanged in the settlement process.
St. Louis Truck Accident Attorneys
Truck crashes can turn lives upside down in seconds. If you or a loved one has been injured in a semi-truck collision, don't wait to get legal guidance. At NGK Law Firm, we stand up for victims and hold negligent trucking companies accountable. Contact us today at (314) 350-1900 to get started.
