Municipal and private garbage trucks operate regularly in and around the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, there are times when accidents involving these vehicles do occur. A collision involving a larger garbage truck and a smaller passenger vehicle could result in significant injuries and property damage. Here, we want to outline the steps that individuals can take after sustaining an injury in an accident with a garbage truck.
Seek Medical Attention
Your first step after any vehicle accident is to seek medical attention for any injuries, regardless of how minor they may seem. Even if you do not feel any pain or discomfort, it is essential to get checked out by a medical professional to ensure there are no underlying issues. Seeking prompt medical care after an accident with a garbage truck in Pennsylvania also helps establish a direct link between the incident and any injuries that do arise.
Call the Authorities
After seeking medical attention, the next step is to call the authorities. This includes both the police and the municipality responsible for the garbage truck. They will document the incident, gather evidence, and file a report. In order to move forward with any type of insurance claim or with a personal injury lawsuit against the municipality, it is crucial to have a police report on file.
Document the Accident – Gather Evidence
It is crucial to document the accident by gathering as much evidence as possible. Take pictures of the scene, including the damages to your vehicle and the garbage truck. Make a note of the location, date, and time of the accident. If there were any witnesses, get their contact information as well. Much of the evidence used to prove liability for a garbage truck accident will be obtained in the days and weeks that follow the incident. An attorney will dig deeper into the safety and inspection records of the truck, the driver, and the municipality responsible for the operation of the vehicle.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance carrier to report the accident. Provide them with all the documentation you have gathered. They will guide you through the process and help you file a claim. Your insurance carrier only needs preliminary information to begin processing the claim. Do not go into much detail with your insurance carrier, and certainly do not accept any fault. We encourage you to let the insurance carrier know you will be reaching out to an attorney and that all further questions should go through your legal counsel.
Consult with an Attorney
Consulting with a Philadelphia truck accident attorney who has experience handling accidents involving municipal garbage trucks can help protect your legal rights. They can help you understand your rights and work to negotiate with insurance companies. If needed, an attorney will represent you in court if necessary. A skilled Pennsylvania garbage truck accident lawyer can help you through every aspect of the process and ensure that you are treated fairly every step of the way.
Follow Up on Medical Treatment
After seeking medical attention, it is important to follow up on any recommended treatment or therapy. This will ensure that you receive the necessary care to fully recover from any injuries sustained in the accident. It will also provide you with documentation to support any claims for compensation related to medical bills or lost wages.