Accidents involving large trucks are scary, and when they happen on fast-moving highways, things can turn serious very quickly. If you have ever driven on interstates like I-90 or I-55, you know how many semis pass through every day. Most drivers make it home safely, but when a truck crash does happen, the damage can be overwhelming.
If you are in this situation, there is a lot to deal with. Your health comes first, but you also have to think about insurance, medical bills, and what steps to take next. Knowing what to do after the crash can help you stay safe and protect your rights. At Fabbrini Law Group, we work with people across Illinois who have been hurt in serious crashes. If you need guidance, reach out to us for a free consultation.
Call for Help and Stay Calm
As soon as the crash happens, try to stay as calm as you can. If your car is in a dangerous spot and you are able to move it, pull over to a safer area. Turn on your hazard lights. Check yourself and anyone with you for injuries.
Even if it seems minor, call 911. Let paramedics check everyone out, and wait for the police to arrive. You will need an official report, especially if you decide to file a claim later. In Illinois, reporting the crash is required if someone is hurt or there is major damage.
Get a Medical Checkup
You may feel fine right after the crash, but that does not always mean you are in the clear. Some injuries take a while to show up. Concussions, back problems, or even internal injuries might not be obvious right away.
Seeing a doctor early helps you catch problems before they get worse. It also creates a record of what you are going through, which can be important if you later need to prove how the crash affected you.
Collect What You Can at the Scene
If you are not seriously hurt and can move around safely, take a few moments to gather details. Photos are very helpful. Try to get shots of the damage, the road, nearby signs, and anything else that seems important. It helps to show what things looked like right after the crash.
If there are witnesses, ask for their contact info. If you can, write down the truck driver’s name, the company they work for, and the truck’s license plate number. This information might be hard to track down later.
Also, try to avoid talking about who caused the crash. Just stick to the facts. Leave any questions about fault to the police and your lawyer.
Make Sure the Crash Gets Reported
If the state police come to the scene, they will usually handle the paperwork. But if you are not sure whether a report was made, you can ask how to get a copy or file one yourself. Having this report helps if you need to file an insurance claim or take legal action later.
Talk to a Lawyer Who Handles Truck Accidents
These cases are different from fender benders. They can involve more than just you and the other driver. Sometimes, the truck company, their insurance, or even a maintenance crew could be involved. That is why it helps to talk to someone who has handled truck crash cases before.
At Fabbrini Law Group, we know how to look into the details, deal with insurance companies, and help you figure out what your options are. You do not have to figure everything out alone. And talking to us does not cost anything. Your first consultation is free.
Be Careful With Insurance Calls
You might get a phone call from the trucking company’s insurance provider. They may ask questions or offer a quick payout. It might sound like a solution, but these offers are often less than what your case is worth.
Let your lawyer handle these conversations. That way, you do not say something that could be used against you later. Insurance companies are trained to protect themselves, not to look out for your best interest.
Moving Forward
Getting hit by a semi-truck is not something anyone plans for. The damage can go far beyond the crash itself. Medical bills, lost time at work, and the stress of recovery can add up quickly. But you are not alone in this.
By taking the right steps early, you can give yourself the best chance to recover fully and move forward. That includes getting medical care, gathering key information, and talking to someone who knows how these cases work.
If you have been hurt in a truck crash in Illinois and need help figuring out what comes next, reach out to Fabbrini Law Group for a free consultation. We are here to listen and ready to help.