Steps to Take After a Truck Accident in South Florida
It can be frightening to be involved in a huge commercial truck accident. In the accident’s aftermath, several victims are gravely hurt and baffled.
Many victims, however, are unaware that the actions they take in the aftermath of a truck accident can have a substantial impact on their potential to receive compensation. Following the seven stages outlined below can assist you in defending your rights and beginning to create a strong case against the party that caused the accident.
Suppose you were hurt in a truck accident. In that case, our South Florida truck accident attorneys may be able to assist you in recovering compensation for your medical bills, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and other losses. During a free, no-obligation consultation, we can explain your legal options.
- Stay at the Accident Scene
Do not leave the site if you are involved in a commercial truck accident. Instead, pull over to a safe spot away from oncoming traffic and switch on your hazard lights to make yourself visible to other trucks. Cones, reflectors, and flares should be placed behind your car to alert other drivers and prevent another accident.
- Report the Accident
Call 9-1-1 to report the accident as soon as it is safe to do so. A law enforcement officer will be assigned to investigate and write a report to the accident location. The report will include:
- Basic crash facts.
- Comments from you and the truck driver.
- The officer’s judgment of what happened and who is to blame.
Ask the officer how you can get a copy of the report because it will be crucial evidence in your injury case.
- Seek Medical Treatment
Even if you do not believe you have been injured, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible following an accident. In the minutes, hours, or days following a truck collision, victims often experience a rush of adrenaline, which can hide indicators of injuries.
Seeking medical attention can assist you in determining the cause of your injuries and the accident. Delaying medical treatment might harm your health and your claim because the insurance company may argue that you were not hurt in the accident and that you are exaggerating your injuries.
- Collect Information About the Truck and Driver
It’s critical to acquire as much information as possible on the truck, truck company, and truck driver as soon as possible following an accident, including:
- Name of the trucking company
- The phone number for the trucking company
- United States Department of Transportation number on the truck
- License plate number
- Truck driver’s name
- Truck driver’s contact information
- Insurance information for the truck
- Get Witness Information
If there were any witnesses who saw the accident, take notes and get their names, phone numbers, and addresses. Because they provide an objective perspective on the accident, witness reports are frequently powerful pieces of evidence. Our attorneys can study these accounts and contact them if we have any questions regarding the witnesses’ statements or other parts of the accident.
- Pictures
Take as many images of the accident scene as you can you can. Because the accident scene will most certainly be cleaned up fast for the safety of other motorists, critical evidence may be lost or destroyed. Take photos from various angles to portray diverse views.
When you take pictures, try to capture the following:
- Damage to your vehicle
- Damage to the truck
- Traffic signals and signs near the accident scene
- Debris or damaged vehicle parts on the roadway
- Skid marks
- Speak Wisely
It is critical that you recognise that any statements you make to the opposing party or the insurance company can and will be used against you. Information may be used to dismiss your claim or reduce your compensation amount. As a result, you should avoid expressing your thoughts on what transpired or agreeing to anything the insurance company offers.
Your South Florida personal injury lawyer can manage these interactions to protect your interests throughout the legal process. An attorney can analyze insurance company proposals and advise you on how to protect your interests effectively.
Contact an Experienced Lawyer
Truck accidents are frequently complicated, involving several participants with different interests. Hiring a South Florida truck accident attorney might assist you in leveling the playing field. Trucking firms and connected parties are well-prepared to handle these matters, so having a legal counsel on your side who can assist you maximize your recovery is important.
