What to Do After a Truck Accident: Your Legal Breakdown

Introduction

As experienced truck accident attorneys, we know that American highways are packed with tractor-trailers and big-rig semi-trucks, especially during the summer and peak holiday travel months.

With such heavy vehicles sharing the roads, big accidents are inevitable. But being hit by a truck isn’t merely a run-of-the-mill accident; it brings a myriad of complications, both physically and legally.

The Physical Impact and Immediate Consequences Of an Accident

When a passenger vehicle is hit by a truck, the aftermath can be catastrophic. Given the enormous weight and size difference between commercial trucks and regular vehicles, collisions often result in severe trauma for car occupants. Such injuries range from minor cuts and bruises to debilitating injuries like traumatic brain injuries, spinal injuries, broken bones, or even fatalities.

It cannot be stressed enough how important it is to seek immediate medical attention after being hit by an 18-wheeler. In addition to the urgency of tending to potential injuries, a prompt medical evaluation becomes a crucial piece of evidence in subsequent legal proceedings.

Insurance matters

All vehicles on the road must carry insurance to protect against accidents and injuries. Each state sets its own minimum insurance requirements for passenger vehicles. However, the situation becomes more complex if you’re hit by an 18-wheeler or other commercial vehicle.

For commercial trucks, liability coverage is much higher. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates a minimum of $750,000 in liability coverage per incident. Many trucking companies carry even higher insurance limits, but these amounts may still fall short of covering all damages, especially given the severity of injuries often associated with truck accidents.

To protect yourself in case of a truck accident, it’s also important to review your own insurance policy, including underinsured motorist coverage. This coverage can help make up the difference if the trucking company’s insurance doesn’t fully cover your losses.

Navigating truck accident lawsuits

The aftermath of a trucking accident places you in a precarious legal situation. Trucking companies, huge companies with big budgets, are equipped with formidable legal teams, all geared to defend their interests. Moreover, dealing with insurance companies after such an accident is no cakewalk.

Insurance agents, skilled in their craft, often try to obtain statements from victims that could potentially diminish the victim’s claims later on during settlements or trials.

An experienced truck accident attorney speaks the language of the insurers and can take the pressure off of you by navigating your lawsuit.

10 Actions To Take After Getting Hit By A Truck

If you are hit by a truck, you may have injuries that require immediate medical attention. Though some of the processes will change for you, many of these next steps will still be helpful once you and your loved ones are safe and stable.

1. File a police report: Make sure a police report is filed. It serves as an unbiased account of the accident, emphasizing its importance in legal battles.
2. Document the scene: If possible, take photographs of the accident scene, damaged vehicles, injuries, and road conditions. Tangible evidence can significantly influence legal outcomes.
3. Collect information: Collect details from witnesses, license plates, and vehicle identification numbers. This data can be invaluable during investigations and legal proceedings.
4. Put your health first: Your well-being is the priority. If you are injured or have concerns, see a doctor immediately and maintain regular medical check-ups to monitor your injuries. If you retain an attorney through our firm, we will help you get the medical evaluations and care you need to support and document your recovery and case.
5. Report the accident to your insurance company: Notify them about the accident. Be factual and leave out how you feel. Make sure to disclose only the same information you provided for the police report.
6. Hire an experienced truck accident attorney: Given the medical, financial, and legal complexity of truck accidents, having a seasoned attorney by your side is non-negotiable.
7. Do not sign anything or speak to the truck’s insurance company: Maintain a protective stance with other insurance companies. Any conversation with them could be used against you, even if they just call to ask how you are. Don’t admit fault, and refrain from providing statements or signing documents without legal guidance.
8. Beware the trucking company’s adjuster. Their allegiance is with the trucking company, and they are contacting you to collect evidence against you or in support of their interests. Ensure all communication is mediated through your attorney.
9. Know about DMV needs: Reporting the accident to the Department of Motor Vehicles might be mandatory, depending on state regulations.
10. Assess the vehicle before repair: Document the extent of damages to all vehicles involved before any repair work.

Post Accident: The Road Ahead 

Being hit by a semi-truck or commercial vehicle is undeniably a daunting experience, often leaving affected individuals overwhelmed both physically and mentally. Beyond the immediate medical concerns, it is common to grapple with potential financial burdens from medical bills, property damages, and loss of income. Then, there are the looming legal battles with well-equipped trucking corporations and their insurers.

Luckily, with an experienced truck accident attorney on your side, you can navigate these challenges. Equipped with this 10-step action plan and strong legal support, you stand a fighting chance to get the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve.

How to get help

You want trucking companies to know you won’t be pushed around. Insurance companies recognize the name Alexander Shunnarah and know our firm won’t back down. With our experienced trucking accident attorneys, we bring power, passion, and deep knowledge to every case, ensuring you get the compensation, care, and peace of mind you deserve.

Whether negotiating a strong settlement or fighting for you in court, we’re ready to stand up for your rights. Trucking companies have tough legal teams—make sure you have an even tougher one. Contact us for a free consultation and let us guide you through the process with confidence.