According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, truck accidents lead to 6% of vehicle crash fatalities. After a truck collision, it is easy to make decisions that can affect your ability to recover damages. Here are the top mistakes you need to avoid after getting into a truck accident.
Not Calling the Police
You should always call the police, even if the accident seems minor. A formal report documents what happened and is a key piece of evidence when you decide to file a truck accident claim.
Without it, your case will become a matter of one person’s word against another. Also, insurance companies and courts rely heavily on this report to assess fault and damages, so do not skip this step. If possible, ask for a copy of the police report.
Admitting Fault at the Scene
Many people’s instinct is to apologize after an accident, even if they are not to blame for the accident. While it may seem polite, saying “I’m sorry” or “I did not see you” can be considered as admitting fault, which may be used against you later.
It is best to stay calm and stick to exchanging information. Let the police and insurance investigators determine who was at fault based on the facts.
Not Seeking Medical Attention
Trucks are bigger and weigh much more than regular vehicles. Truck accidents involve high-impact forces that can cause serious injuries, and some injuries may not be obvious right away. Internal injuries, concussions, or spinal damage can take hours or days to become obvious.
Delaying medical care can put your health at risk and weaken your claim. Insurers may argue that your injuries were not caused by the accident or became worse because of delayed medical care. Also, ensure that you stick to the treatment plan.
Failing to Preserve Evidence
Evidence can quickly disappear after a crash. Skid marks may fade, vehicle damage gets repaired, and witnesses move on. If you are able, take photos of the vehicles, the road, and any visible injuries.
Get contact information from witnesses and keep records of any communication you have with the trucking company or insurers. If your injuries prevent you from doing this, a lawyer can help you collect evidence.
Speaking to the Trucking Company’s Insurer Alone
Insurance companies are not on your side, especially when they represent big corporations like trucking companies. Adjusters tend to call after the accident, asking for a recorded statement or offering a quick settlement. However, do not be tempted to take the bait.
These settlement offers are often much lower than what you actually deserve. Additionally, anything you say can be used against you to minimize payout. Therefore, always talk to a lawyer before dealing with the trucking company’s insurance.
Conclusion
Recovering after a truck accident is hard enough without making mistakes that you can avoid. By staying quiet about admitting fault, getting medical help as quickly as possible, and preserving evidence, you can protect your health and your rights. If you have been involved in a truck accident, do not go through it alone. Having an experienced attorney by your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
Lynn Martelli is an editor at Readability. She received her MFA in Creative Writing from Antioch University and has worked as an editor for over 10 years. Lynn has edited a wide variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and more. In her free time, Lynn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family and friends.
