What To Do After a Big Truck Wreck in Louisiana

Every year, thousands of people in Louisiana are injured or killed in big truck accidents, especially along busy highways like I-10, I-12, and I-49. These crashes can change lives in an instant. If you or someone you care about has been involved in a truck wreck, knowing what to do next can make a world of difference.

At Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys, our Louisiana truck accident lawyers have your back. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do after a truck accident so you can protect your health, your rights, and your future.

1. Call 911 and File an Accident Report

Your first move? Call 911. Emergency responders will get you the help you need and ensure an accident report is filed—a key piece of evidence for your claim.

Be sure to request a copy of the police report, which should include:

• Names and contact info of everyone involved
  
• The officer’s opinion about who’s at fault
  
• Witness statements
  
• Photos and diagrams of the scene
  

This report can become a crucial foundation for your case.

2. Get Medical Attention Right Away

After a crash, adrenaline can mask pain. Some serious injuries, like TBIs or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately. That’s why it’s essential to get checked by a medical professional right away.

Follow all doctors’ orders, including prescriptions, therapy, or follow-ups. Gaps in treatment can give insurance companies a reason to lower your compensation.

3. Document the Crash Scene Thoroughly

If it’s safe and you’re able, gather as much information as you can at the crash site:

• Photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and your injuries
  
• Names and contact information of witnesses
  
• The truck’s license plate, DOT number, and any markings showing the trucking company
  
• Ask for the truck driver’s commercial driver’s license (CDL) and insurance details
  
• Also, note the time, location, and weather conditions
  
• Record a personal written or voice note account of what happened before, during, and after the wreck
  

Thorough documentation helps piece together exactly what happened and why. It can help your attorney identify possible causes like driver fatigue, distracted driving, brake failure, or overloaded cargo, which are all common in Louisiana truck accidents.

Every detail matters, especially when proving what happened later.

4. Do Not Admit Fault or Speak to the Other Party’s Insurer

It might feel natural to say, “I’m okay” or “I didn’t see them,” but even innocent words can be used against you.

If the truck company’s insurance calls, do not give a recorded statement. Don’t sign anything. Instead, say you have legal representation and direct them to your attorney.

5. Preserve Key Evidence

Truck accident cases often hinge on evidence that’s unique to commercial vehicles. This includes:

• Black box (ECM) data
  
• Dashcam footage
  
• Maintenance and inspection records
  
• Driver logs and Hours of Service data
  
• Cargo documents and dispatch logs
  

Your attorney can send preservation letters to make sure this evidence isn’t destroyed or “lost.”

6. Be Aware of Hidden or Delayed Injuries

Not all injuries are visible right away. Whiplash, PTSD, internal organ damage, and brain trauma can take days or even weeks to surface.

Continue to attend medical appointments and keep a journal of how your injuries affect:

• Sleep and energy
  
• Work and income
  
• Relationships
  
• Emotional well-being
  

This record can help strengthen your case and tell your full story.

7. File a Claim with Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company soon after the crash, but stick to the facts. Avoid speculating or admitting fault.

Your lawyer can guide you through this process and help you avoid costly missteps.

8. Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney in Louisiana

At the end of the day, an experienced attorney can help determine liability and make sure all responsible parties are held accountable.

Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys has over 30 years of experience and 679+ years of combined legal knowledge. Our team has helped thousands of clients throughout Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Shreveport, New Orleans, Lake Charles, Monroe, and across the state.

No Fee Unless We Win. Call us today at 888.371.3190 or fill out our online form for a free consultation.!