Witnessing a Truck Accident in Nashville
Trucks play a pivotal role in our economy, and we share our roads with more and more of these massive machines. Truck accidents are not uncommon in Nashville, and they are among the most dangerous crashes on our roadways. Witnessing a truck accident is a terrifying experience. If, however, you are able and inclined to assist, there are specific steps you should take. And if you or someone you care about has been injured by a truck driver’s negligence, it’s time to reach out to an experienced truck accident attorney at Raybin & Weissman.
Assess the Situation
To begin, you should know that, in the State of Tennessee, those who witness accidents are not required to pull over. If, for example, it is clear that others have already stopped to help and you have no critical information regarding how the accident happened, the best choice is likely to continue safely on your way.
Other instances when pulling over is not advised include the following:
- You’re not physically capable of rendering aid.
- You don’t feel safe pulling over.
- You don’t have anything to offer in terms of information or assistance.
Even if you don’t stop, making a hands-free 911 call is strongly recommended. You might be the first to call, and if you’re not, you may be able to provide needed information. Don’t hesitate to call simply because you assume someone else already has. In the chaotic aftermath of a violent truck accident, those rushing to help may assume that others are doing the calling.
If You Choose to Pullover
Witnessing a truck accident is extremely stressful and can leave you unsure about how to respond. If you believe that help is needed and that you can provide some form of assistance, even if that means simply recounting how the accident happened, you are encouraged to do so. Your efforts could make a big difference in terms of the victim’s health outcome and in terms of their truck accident claim.
Prioritize Your Own Safety
If you have made the valiant decision to help, it is important to do so safely, which includes:
- Signaling that you are pulling over
- Pulling over as far from traffic’s path as possible
- Engaging your hazard lights
- Leaving at least 100 feet between your vehicle and the crash to help lessen fire-related risks and to accommodate emergency vehicles
- Calling 911
- Rendering any aid you safely can, which may mean simply reassuring the injured person that help is on the way
- Following any advice that the 911 operator provides
Make a Statement to the Authorities
Providing the authorities with a statement about exactly what you saw could ultimately prove very helpful to the truck accident victim. Answer each question put to you as honestly and with as much detail as you can. And if you have any additional information that you believe is relevant, don’t hesitate to share it with the officer.
Discuss Your Claim with an Experienced Nashville Truck Accident Lawyer Today
The dedicated Nashville truck accident attorneys at Raybin & Weissman have earned an imposing reputation for fierce and effective advocacy on behalf of our valued clients, and we welcome the opportunity to also help you. Learn more by contacting us online or calling us at 615-256-6666 today.