What to Know if You Have Been Involved in a Truck Accident

What to Know if You Have Been Involved in a Truck Accident

Commercial vehicles have massive size and weight, which is why truck accidents result in severe injuries and fatalities. Your quality of life is likely to worsen after sustaining an injury in a truck accident.

You, therefore, deserve compensation for the injury-related losses. The at-fault party's insurer may deny your claim or make a low settlement offer, affecting your ability to recover from the accident.

A truck accident lawyer can explain your legal rights, investigate the crash, and protect your interests in the claim process.

What to Do After a Truck Accident

Your actions after a truck accident can enhance your safety and protect your legal rights as an injured victim.

Here are a few steps you should take after a truck accident:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if you feel okay, seek immediate medical attention after the crash. Visiting a healthcare provider after a truck accident may contribute to a positive outcome for your claim.

Here are the benefits of seeking immediate medical attention:

• Hidden Injuries: Even if you feel fine initially, some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away. A medical professional can conduct a thorough examination to uncover these hidden injuries early on.
• Legal Documentation: Seeking medical attention creates a record of your injuries and treatments. A truck accident attorney can rely on medical records to file a personal injury claim or lawsuit while seeking compensation for your damages.
• Priority for Healing: Prompt medical care helps diagnose and treat injuries and prioritizes your overall well-being. The at-fault party's insurer can question the severity of your injuries if you delay seeking medical attention.

Inform the Authorities About the Crash

You should also inform the authorities about the crash. When a law enforcement officer arrives at the scene, they will document their findings. A police accident report can serve as an additional source of evidence during the claim process.

The report documents details of the accident scene, including witness statements, photographs, and the officer's assessment of the situation. 

By involving the police, you ensure that an official accident record is created. The findings of the police accident report can establish liability and determine the extent of damages incurred.

Many states require drivers involved in truck accidents to report accidents that result in injuries, death, or property damage. A truck accident attorney can use the report to initiate further investigations and build a comprehensive strategy for your claim.

In essence, involving the police and obtaining an accident report adds a layer of credibility and objectivity to your case. It provides a solid foundation for a truck accident lawyer to advocate on your behalf and maximize the chances of a successful resolution.

Inform Your Insurer About the Crash

You should also promptly notify your insurer about the accident. Many insurers require policyholders to notify them about a crash within a specific timeline. Even if the accident was not your fault, you should inform your insurer to fulfill your contractual obligations.
When speaking with your insurance company, provide factual information about the accident without admitting fault or speculating on details. Stick to the facts and avoid making statements that can be used against you later.
Remember that insurance adjusters want to minimize payouts, so having legal representation from an experienced truck accident attorney can help. A truck accident lawyer can communicate and negotiate with the insurer on your behalf, protecting your rights in the claim.
By alerting your insurer promptly and seeking legal guidance, you can strengthen your position as you pursue compensation for your losses.

Get in Touch With an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney

You should also seek legal counsel after being injured in a truck accident. A legal professional with knowledge and experience in truck accidents can explain your rights and design a strategy for your compensation claim.

From investigating the accident scene to negotiating with insurance companies, an attorney can handle all legal aspects on your behalf, allowing you to focus on recovery. By enlisting the support of a knowledgeable attorney truck accident lawyer, you can increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
A skilled truck accident attorney will assess the circumstances of your crash, evaluate the applicable damages, and fight for a maximum settlement value.
By having a truck accident lawyer by your side, you can rest assured that your rights are protected and that you have a dedicated professional working tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome.

Who Is Liable in a Truck Accident

Although you may be entitled to compensation for your losses, you must prove liability. You should, therefore, understand the parties who may be liable for your losses. 

• The Truck Driver: Often, the first party that comes to mind when discussing liability in a truck accident is the truck driver. If the driver was negligent, reckless, fatigued, or violated traffic laws, they can be held responsible for the accident.
• The Trucking Company: In many truck accident cases, the trucking company may share liability with the driver. If the company failed to properly maintain the vehicle, provide adequate training, or enforce safety regulations, it can be held accountable for the accident.
• The Manufacturer or Maintenance Provider: If the accident was caused by a mechanical failure or a faulty part on the truck, the manufacturer or the entity responsible for maintaining the vehicle can be liable for damages. Improper maintenance, negligent repairs, or defective parts can all contribute to accidents on the road.
• Highway Maintenance Authority: A road authority may be liable for a truck accident if they were negligent in maintaining the road, leading to the accident. They can also be liable for the loss if they failed to take proper precautions to prevent the accident.

A truck accident attorney can gather evidence and establish the party that may be liable for the crash.

What Is the Average Settlement for a 18-Wheeler Accident

There is no average value for an 18-wheeler accident. The outcome of each case depends on the unique facts and circumstances.

Some of the factors that determine the average settlement value include:

Severity of the Injury

When determining the value of an 18-wheeler claim, the severity of the injury has a significant impact. Whether it's a traumatic brain injury or a spinal cord injury, a severe injury has a long-term impact on your health.

From extensive medical bills and ongoing rehabilitation to lost income and emotional distress, the aftermath of a serious injury can be overwhelming. The more severe your injuries are, the higher the potential value of your losses.

That said, truck accident victims with severe injuries are likely to receive a higher settlement value compared to their counterparts with minor injuries. Severe injuries demand a higher settlement value because of current and future losses.

The Availability of Evidence

In the aftermath of a traumatic truck accident, the availability of strong evidence can significantly impact the outcome of your 18-wheeler claim. Concrete evidence, such as medical bills, photographs of the scene, and police accident reports, can strengthen your case and influence the settlement value.

By promptly gathering and preserving evidence, you enhance a truck accident lawyer's ability to construct a compelling argument on your behalf. Strong evidence can establish liability, demonstrate the extent of your injuries, and prove the opposing party's negligence. 

Furthermore, tangible evidence can counter any disputes or challenges the insurance company raises, leading to a more favorable resolution for your claim.

When you collaborate with an experienced truck accident attorney, they can guide you on the types of evidence necessary to bolster your case. Their years of handling truck accident claims equip them with knowledge of personal injury laws and the ability to use evidence to protect your interests.

Shared Liability

Shared liability also has a part to play while determining the value of an 18-wheeler claim. If you are found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation can be reduced to the extent of your responsibility.

A skilled truck accident lawyer understands shared liability laws and will work to protect your interests in the claim. They can conduct investigations so the at-fault party doesn't shift the blame on you.

A truck accident attorney can also negotiate with insurers so that you can receive a fair settlement value for your losses.

Insurance Coverage of the At-fault Party

Many injured victims in 18-wheeler accidents obtain compensation from the at-fault party's insurer. However, Inadequate insurance coverage on the part of the at-fault party can significantly decrease the settlement value you may receive. 

You'll likely endure financial losses if you can't fully recover compensation for damages and injuries sustained in the accident. A seasoned truck accident attorney can assess the insurance coverage of the parties involved and work towards maximizing your settlement.

In cases where the at-fault party's insurance coverage falls short in compensating you for your losses, a truck accident lawyer can take legal action by suing the negligent party. Through a court order, you can recover additional damages that go beyond the limitations of the insurance coverage.

The Duration of the Recovery Period

The duration of your recovery is a key factor that insurance companies and a truck accident lawyer will consider when evaluating the value of your case. A longer recovery period often indicates more severe injuries, resulting in higher medical bills, ongoing treatment costs, and potential long-term effects on your quality of life.

Moreover, an extended recovery period may mean a longer time away from work, leading to lost income and financial strain. Ensure you accurately document your recovery timeline, including medical records, treatment plans, and any impact on your ability to work. 

A skilled truck accident attorney can assist you in documenting the injuries so you can receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Compensation for a Truck Accident

You have a right to pursue compensation from an at-fault party whose negligent actions contributed to the accident and injuries. A truck accident attorney can compile evidence and pursue compensation on your behalf.

Here are a few damages you can obtain in a truck accident:

• Medical Expenses: Following a truck accident, medical bills can quickly pile up due to the injuries sustained. Compensation can cover past and future medical expenses related to the accident, including hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and medication.
• Lost Income: When injuries from a truck accident prevent you from working, you may be eligible for compensation for lost income. Lost earnings include the income you would have earned if you had not been injured in the accident.
• Pain and Suffering: The emotional and physical pain experienced as a result of a truck accident can be overwhelming. Compensation for pain and suffering aims to alleviate the distress caused by chronic pain and the emotional toll caused by the injury.
• Emotional Anguish: Learning you'll be permanently disabled can trigger emotional anguish. Compensation for emotional anguish can help address the trauma, anxiety, and mental distress resulting from the accident.
• Loss of Companionship: In cases where a truck accident results in the loss of a loved one, a truck accident lawyer can pursue loss of companionship damages. These damages aim to address the impact of losing a family member on the surviving relatives.
• Reduced Quality of Life: A truck accident can lead to long-term or permanent disabilities that impact your quality of life. Compensation for reduced quality of life aims to address the physical limitations or reduced enjoyment of life due to the injuries sustained in the accident.

Let a Truck Accident Lawyer Fight for the Compensation You Deserve

You're likely to endure hefty medical bills, physical injuries and emotional toll after a truck accident. Although you're entitled to compensation, the at-fault party's insurer may frustrate your recovery claim.

You can rely on a truck accident attorney to protect your rights as an injured victim. They can investigate, negotiate with insurers, and represent your claim before a judge or jury. A truck accident lawyer understands the impact of an injury and will fight so you obtain the maximum settlement value for your losses.

Get in touch with a truck accident lawyer for legal assistance. Contact us today!