Steps to Take After a Semi-Truck Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Accident in South Carolina
If your loved one was struck and killed by a semi-truck, you have every right to take legal action. However, you might not be sure where to start – especially if the guilty trucker fled after the collision. What steps can you take in this scenario? How can you help investigators catch the trucker responsible for your loved one’s death? Can you file a truck accident lawsuit in South Carolina? These are all questions you might want to ask a personal injury attorney.
Cooperate With Law Enforcement to the Best of Your Ability
After a fatal truck accident, local law enforcement will probably ask you various questions. If you cooperate effectively with law enforcement, it may help them track down the trucker who caused the collision. Any information you think might be helpful could be useful, and don’t be afraid to call back if you think of anything else.
Be Patient as the Investigation Proceeds
Sometimes, investigators find hit-and-run drivers within just a few hours. In other cases, it takes a few days. However, you should be mentally prepared for a long investigation. It is not unheard of for a guilty driver to experience months or even years of freedom before finally facing arrest for a hit-and-run.
Consider Evidence That Might Be Useful
Although many law enforcement officials are highly proficient, some investigations seem to falter for unclear reasons. If you’re not sure whether the investigators are making any progress, you could potentially attempt to gather evidence yourself. For example, you might visit the site of your loved one’s death and assess nearby surveillance cameras.
Perhaps a nearby gas station or retail store captured the accident on camera. You can inquire about getting a copy of the footage, and this footage could prove instrumental in tracking down the trucker responsible for your loved one’s death. Do not assume that investigators will take these steps on their own.
An experienced truck accident attorney may be able to help gather evidence in this manner. Consider speaking with one of these legal professionals after the crash, as they may be able to gather evidence you hadn’t even considered. Most injury lawyers charge “contingency fees,” which means you only need to pay if you win your case.
Keep Track of Your Damages
Even if the trucker is still unaccounted for, you should prepare for a potential truck accident claim as soon as possible. Keep any receipts for damages you incur as a result of the fatal accidents. This includes funeral costs and any medical bills your loved one incurred before passing.
Can a Truck Accident Lawyer in South Carolina Help?
A truck accident lawyer in South Carolina may be able to help after a semi-truck hit-and-run. With legal assistance, it may be easier to gather the evidence you need to prove not only negligence, but also the identity of the trucker who caused the pedestrian collision. A lawyer can also help you negotiate for a fair settlement – or guide you to a positive outcome in court. Speak with Mickelsen Dalton, LLC today to learn more.
Source
transportation.gov/briefing-room/fmcsa-declares-south-carolina-trucking-companies-and-commercial-driver-be-imminent
