What do I do if I’m injured in a truck accident?
By GNGF on January 20th, 2023 in
Following a truck accident, there are several things you need to do to safeguard your future claim against the negligent party. First and foremost, you must get medical treatment for your truck accident injury. Those who are involved in a truck accident often suffer severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputations, internal injuries, and disfigurement from burns. Even if by some miracle you think you are not that badly hurt, you should still be checked out by a medical professional.
During an accident, adrenaline floods your body, often masking symptoms of injury. When the adrenaline rush wears off, you may realize you are injured more severely than you first thought. However, if you are not seen by a medical professional the insurer may try to say that you are not suffering from a truck accident injury. This can make it more difficult for your attorney to secure the settlement you are entitled to receive.
After everyone involved in the accident has had medical treatment, if you are physically able, take photos with your cell phone of the scene of the accident. If there were witnesses to the accident, obtain their contact information. Once you are home after seeing a doctor, take the time to write down every detail of the truck accident that you can remember. Even the smallest detail could end up being important, helping your attorney to build a strong case on your behalf.
After contacting your own insurance company and letting them know about the accident, you should next contact an experienced truck accident attorney. This can be one of the most important steps you take following your truck accident, as your injury attorney has a significant bearing on the outcome of your claim.
The most important thing you should know is that accidents involving 18-Wheelers and other big trucks are different from a “normal” car accident with another driver. Big trucks like 18-Wheelers are governed by federal laws that are designed with public safety in mind. You should consult with an attorney that knows these laws to hold the trucking company responsible for your injuries.
How is fault proven in a truck accident claim?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations govern big commercial trucks like 18-Wheelers. These laws are designed to protect the motoring public from negligent truck drivers. These federal safety laws are also designed to ensure that trucking companies who hire negligent drivers are also accountable when their drivers ignore the safety rules of the road.
Following a truck accident, fault will be proven in the same way as it would be proven following an accident involving two passenger vehicles. When the police arrive at the scene of the truck accident, they will attempt to determine who was at fault for the accident by questioning witnesses and talking to those involved in the accident. If they can determine fault, then that will become a part of the official police report.
If they cannot definitively determine fault, then the insurer(s) will engage in their own investigation. Keep in mind that the insurer for the trucking company will be seeking to discredit your account of the accident and show that they are not responsible. Large insurance companies who work for trucking companies have been known to “circle the wagons” soon after the accident. In some instances, evidence has even been known to go missing. This is another reason you need to have a strong truck accident attorney by your side as quickly as possible.
Your attorney will conduct their own investigation, gathering facts, witness statements, any video evidence, and even the “black box” out of the truck that will show the speed traveled and whether the truck had a hard brake prior to the accident. Your personal injury attorney will work tirelessly to build a strong case on your behalf that fully covers all your injuries and damages.
How Can the Harmonson Law Firm Help?
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in El Paso, Las Cruces, or the surrounding area, you need serious help and you need it quickly. Your injuries may be severe, and you may be unable to return to work. It is understandable that you may be anxious about your future—both your health and your finances. At Harmonson Law Firm, we are ready to help you during this difficult time. We understand that you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what you need to do.
When you contact Harmonson Law Firm, you can rest assured that you have highly experienced, knowledgeable legal professionals in your corner. Having a skilled legal advocate can make a huge difference in the outcome of your claim. Harmonson Law Firm offers attentive and personal guidance to all clients. By working with us you will receive the small firm benefit of having attorneys who will build a personal relationship with you and your family. We truly care about your health and your future. Contact Harmonson Law Firm today. Please note that nothing herein is meant as legal advice specifically related to your case.
