After a tractor-trailer accident, there are several calls you should make as soon as possible. You should call the police department to conduct an investigation. You should call your insurance company to report the accident. You should also seek medical attention if needed. At the scene of the accident, if you're able, take photographs of the roadway, the position of the vehicles, and any damage. It is important to document this for your case. If you are the injured person, you will also want to send the trucking company a preservation letter at the earliest opportunity. A competent Atlanta truck accident attorney can help you with this. The preservation letter should request that the trucking company preserve the records that are reasonably related to your claim. Following the preservation letter, you gather the appropriate medical records and send a demand letter. The truck accident lawyer will attempt to negotiate a resolution for you without filing a suit. If a resolution is not possible pre-suit, then the attorney prepares a complaint and files the complaint in the appropriate court. This is usually where the trucking company is located in Georgia. The lawsuit begins a discovery process, where each side passes back and forth written questions and requests for information. There are also sworn statements taken under oath, called depositions. After discovery, there is usually an attempt to negotiate a resolution. If that fails, then the case is prepared for trial.