Greenville truck accident

In Greenville, large commercial vehicles move tons of freight every day through major roads and highways. Unfortunately, that also increases the risk of a truck accident, which can lead to devastating consequences for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike. Whether you are hit by a semi, a dump truck, or a delivery van, knowing what to do after a Greenville truck accident is critical for protecting your rights.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to take after a collision and how to build a strong personal injury claim with the help of experienced Greenville truck accident lawyers.

1. Get Immediate Medical Help

Your first priority after any crash should be seeking medical attention. Even if injuries aren’t visible, internal trauma or soft tissue damage may go unnoticed without proper medical treatment.

  • Call 911
  • Comply with law enforcement and EMS
  • Follow up with your doctor and obtain all medical records
  • Save medical bills and receipts for all services

These records serve as the foundation of your legal claim and help establish the link between the accident and your injuries.

2. Involve Law Enforcement and Secure a Report

After a serious crash, always wait for the Greenville Police Department or South Carolina Highway Patrol to arrive.

  • Get an official police report
  • Ask the officer for a copy of the accident report
  • Confirm if any driver’s license or insurance policy number details were recorded
  • Note any witness statements

These reports can help determine fault determination, especially in cases involving reckless Behaviors or violations of South Carolina commercial driving license laws.

3. Gather Evidence at the Accident Scene

If you’re physically able, begin collecting evidence:

  • Photograph the accident scene
  • Record video footage if safe to do so
  • Take note of skid marks, road conditions, and any weather conditions
  • Get names and contacts of all witnesses

Also, try to collect:

  • driver logs
  • maintenance records
  • black box data
  • electronic logging device readings
  • Images of vehicle inspection stickers

All these can help your personal injury attorneys establish liability in a truck accident case.

4. Avoid Speaking with the Insurance Company

After the crash, expect calls from the insurance company representing the truck driver or trucking company. They may appear helpful, but their priority is to reduce insurance claims payouts.

Do not:

  • Provide recorded statements to the insurance adjuster
  • Discuss your injuries in detail
  • Share updates on social media

Instead, consult truck accident lawyers before speaking to any insurance company.

Greenville Truck Accident

5. Understand Trucking Industry Complexities

Unlike standard auto accidents, truck accidents involve several players, including:

  • The trucking company
  • The truck driver
  • Logistical considerations teams
  • Vehicle manufacturers and cargo handlers

The trucking industry is also governed by federal laws such as hours-of-service rule and federal hours of service standards. Violations like driver fatigue or improper maintenance may add layers of liability.

If electronic on-board recorder or driver qualification file data show negligence, that can strengthen your legal claim.

6. Be Cautious with Your Insurance Handling

When dealing with your own or the opposing party’s insurance policies, remember:

  • Always document your insurance information
  • Check your liability coverage and uninsured motorist coverage
  • Never assume your insurance company is fully on your side

In many cases, insurance subrogation issues may arise, especially if there are multiple carriers involved in a Greenville County incident.

7. Damages You May Recover

A successful claim may allow you to recover both economic damages and non-economic damages, including:

  • Medical expenses
  • Future medical treatment
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional trauma

In some cases, spoliation of evidence and failure to preserve black box data can lead to punitive claims against the trucking company.

8. Keep a Crash Journal and Document Everything

Record:

  • Your pain levels
  • All medical test results
  • Time missed from work
  • Communication with your insurance company

These daily notes and records improve the strength of your personal injury claim and support the timeline of events post-accident.

In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is typically three years. That means you have limited time to:

  • Collect evidence
  • Interview accident reconstructionists and gather witness testimony
  • Initiate a legal claim for full compensation

If you wait too long, evidence may be lost and your rights could be forfeited.

10. Stay Off Social Media

After a truck accident, insurance investigators and defense lawyers often monitor social media. Innocent posts can be twisted and used against you to minimize economic damages or dismiss the severity of your injury.

Until your case is resolved, do not post about:

  • Travel
  • Physical activities
  • Work status
  • Comments about the accident

Final Word

At Ted Law Firm , A truck accident in Greenville can result in life-changing injuries and massive financial stress. The stakes are high especially when facing large trucking companies and aggressive insurance adjusters. We proudly serve injury victims in Aiken, Anderson, Myrtle Beach, North Augusta, Orangeburg, Columbia, Charleston and Summerville. Knowing your rights and securing strong legal support early can be the difference between a denied claim and full compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation,

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