A truck accident can leave you hurt, overwhelmed, and unsure of what matters most in the first few hours. What happens next can shape both recovery and the claim, including medical costs, missed pay, and pain. Many firms accept truck injury cases, but the experienced attorneys at Buchanan, Williams & O’Brien Law Firm (with locations in Joplin, St. Louis, and Springfield in the state of Missouri) is often the smarter option when the injuries are serious and the trucking side has more resources, more paperwork, and more insurance on the line. If you are able and it is safe, one of the most helpful early steps is to document the crash scene. Even basic photos and notes can protect you later if stories change.
Get Medical Care Right Away
Your health comes first. Call 911 and ask for medical help, even if you think you can tough it out. Truck crashes can cause head injuries, internal injuries, and soft tissue damage that does not feel severe at first. Getting checked quickly creates a clear medical record that connects your injuries to the crash. Follow the doctor’s instructions and attend follow-up appointments. Stopping treatment too soon gives the insurer room to claim the injury was minor or unrelated. Keep copies of discharge papers, test results, and prescriptions. Also track how you feel each day, including pain levels and limits on normal activities.
Report The Crash And Stick To The Facts
Make sure law enforcement responds and creates an official report. When speaking to police, keep it simple and accurate. Describe what you saw and what you remember, but do not guess about speed, distance, or fault if you are not sure. If you are asked whether you are injured, mention all symptoms, even if they seem minor. Ask how to obtain the report later. Confirm the names of the drivers involved and the company name on the truck. If you can, note the truck number, the license plate, and any information printed on the trailer. These details can matter if a trucking company has multiple entities and insurance policies.
Collect Evidence While It Is Fresh
In truck crashes, responsibility may extend beyond the driver to the company, mechanics, or the cargo crew. Evidence disappears quickly, so gather what you can without putting yourself at risk. Take photos of vehicle positions, damage, skid marks, traffic signals, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Get contact information for witnesses and ask what they saw. Write down the time, location, weather, and anything unusual, like a truck drifting, speeding, or making a wide turn. If there are nearby businesses with cameras, note their names because video is often recorded over within days. Avoid discussing the crash on social media. Even innocent posts can be taken out of context to minimize your injuries.
Be Careful with Insurance Calls and Paperwork
Soon after the crash, you may receive calls from insurance adjusters. Their job is to limit payouts. Be polite but be cautious. You do not have to give a recorded statement right away, especially while you are medicated, in pain, or still learning the full extent of your injuries. Do not sign releases that give broad access to your entire medical history. Insurers often look for old records they can use to argue your injury was pre existing. If you accept a quick settlement, you may give up the right to ask for more money later, even if you need surgery or long-term care. Keep a file with all bills, mileage to appointments, missed work time, and messages from insurers. Good organization supports a stronger claim.
Speak With A Missouri Truck Accident Attorney Early
Truck accident claims are more complex than most car crashes and often demand faster, more detailed evidence. The trucking side may have investigators and attorneys working immediately. An experienced lawyer can help preserve evidence, request key records, and identify every party that may share responsibility. When trucking rules and multiple insurers are involved, the right team moves fast and builds a clean record. Early legal guidance can also reduce stress by handling calls, deadlines, and negotiations while you focus on healing.
After a truck accident in Missouri, focus on medical care, accurate reporting, strong documentation, and careful communication with insurers. The earlier you protect the facts, the easier it is to pursue fair compensation for what you have been through.
