The Biggest Truck Accident Claim Mistake You Can Make
The trucking industry is complex and has many different laws and regulations that must be followed by drivers, cargo owners, and the trucking companies themselves. If you've been injured in a commercial truck accident, it's important to understand these rules so that you can pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.
The biggest mistake you can make after a truck accident is not hiring a lawyer right away. You want to be sure that you have a lawyer who is dedicated to your case and will help you pursue the full amount of compensation you deserve. You also need to find an attorney who is familiar with the trucking industry and can investigate your accident to determine who is liable for your damages.
Injuries resulting from a truck accident can be serious, especially if the vehicle is large and loaded with heavy objects. This can cause a significant impact on your quality of life and your health. It's essential to get the proper medical care you need, and it's crucial to keep records of your treatment.
A lawyer can use this information to build a strong case for your claim, learn more here. They can also ensure that you receive all of the compensation that you need to fully recover from your injuries.
Don't Admit Fault
In a truck accident, it's not uncommon for the trucking company or their insurer to try to contact you directly to offer payment or compensation without having to go through the police. They may even send representatives to the scene to gather evidence or talk to witnesses, and they'll do everything possible to minimize your liability.
Do not admit fault
No matter how sorry you are for causing the accident, you cannot be responsible for what happened. In New York, there's a "comparative negligence" rule that requires the judge to reduce your damages by your percentage of fault in the accident.
Don't Share Your Injuries or the Accident on Social Media
It's important to remember that social media posts can be screenshotted, misconstrued, and used against you by a liable party. You also do not want to post about your injuries, the accident, or how it's affecting your life. You can tell your friends, family, and coworkers that you've been injured in a truck accident but do not mention that you are looking to file a legal claim or are seeking help from an experienced truck accident lawyer.
Take Photos of the Damages and Road Conditions
It's essential to take photographs of the damage to your vehicle, as well as any other issues on the road that may have caused the accident. These can prove valuable to your case and can help your lawyer prove that the truck driver was driving negligently, discover more here.
Request Truck Company Records
Under FMCSA regulations, trucking companies are required to maintain records of their drivers' duty status and other relevant details for a limited period of time. This information can be especially useful in a truck accident case, since it shows how long a truck driver has been on the road and whether they have been violating Hours of Service rules. Here is a general overview of the topic: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Personal_injury_lawyer.