When you’ve been hit by a huge semi-truck or big rig, the risk of injury is extremely high and chances are that you’re going to want to file a personal injury claim later. What you do after the accident can set the stage for a successful legal claim. If you’re able, take the following steps as soon as it is safe to do so.nCall Emergency Services: Dial 911 and ask the operator to send the police and, if you have visible injuries, an ambulance. The responding officers will create an accident report that you can use to strengthen your claim for financial compensation.nGet the Truck Driver’s Contact Information: If the truck driver stopped after the accident, get contact information for both the driver and the company they work for. If they left the accident scene, ask any eyewitnesses if they saw the vehicle’s license plate. Collect their contact information as well, as your case will benefit hugely from witness statements.nTake Photos of the Crash Scene: If your phone was undamaged, take pictures of the accident scene, any vehicle damage, and factors that may have contributed to the crash, such as a malfunctioning traffic light.nSeek Medical Care: Always seek medical treatment after a truck accident, even if you don’t think you need it. Traumatic brain injury, whiplash, and other injuries don’t always show symptoms immediately. You also want to get medical documentation of your injuries to prove your legal claim later on.nContact a Personal Injury Lawyer: In the days following a major accident, you'll hear from insurance adjusters for the parties responsible for the crash. Even if they come across as friendly and concerned, never forget that their goal is to pay you as little as possible, so anything you say will be used to minimize or deny your claim. Let a Los Angeles truck accident lawyer handle all negotiations with insurance companies in order to ensure that you receive fair compensation.