The Dos & Don’ts of Building a Truck Accident Claim
Was your life forever changed by a drunk, drowsy, or distracted trucker? If you were seriously hurt in a collision with a big rig, you deserve justice, and filing a personal injury claim may be the best way to seek it.
While taking action against the liable party won’t undo what happened, it could at least provide the funds needed to pick up the pieces in the aftermath. Of course, before you can secure a settlement, you’re going to have to build a compelling case.
If you’re unsure where to begin, read on. Here are a few “dos and don’ts” for getting started:
1. Do Save Any Evidence from the Scene
If you managed to gather any potential proof before leaving the scene, preserve it in a safe place until you can turn it over to your legal team. Such evidence might include photographs of the wreckage, dash camera footage, and statements from eyewitnesses.
2. Don’t Say Anything on Record
The claims adjuster will probably ask for a recorded statement fairly early on in their investigation. Although you may want to be cooperative, it’s wise to refrain from giving one.
Speaking on what happened—especially before you’ve confirmed the facts of the case—opens the door for disputes down the road. You should also avoid discussing your injuries or the extent of their associated damages until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (and even then, it’s advisable to consult an attorney first).
3. Do Log Damages from Day One
You’re going to start incurring damages immediately following the accident. To ensure you don’t overlook a single recoverable loss, start tracking them as soon as possible. This includes saving all relevant documentation, like invoices and receipts, and writing daily entries in a journal about your non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
4. Don’t Put off Seeking Care
There’s always so much to do in the aftermath of a large truck crash that it’s easy to neglect your health. If you were able to walk away from the scene, visiting a doctor may be one of the last things on your mind.
It should be the first, however, because your health may be in jeopardy. Since not all impact injuries manifest symptoms right away, you shouldn’t assume you’re fine just because you feel okay.
Seeking medical care right away will ensure the prompt treatment of any and all injuries. Later, during the claims process, it will also demonstrate a commitment to mitigating damages. This, in turn, will make it easier to seek every dollar you deserve.
Speak with a Florida Truck Accident Lawyer
For help with every aspect of your personal injury claim, turn to the compassionate team at Emerson Straw. We have the knowledge, resources, and experience needed to go up against even the largest corporations, and we’re not afraid to proceed to court if needed. Call (727) 821-1500 or submit the Contact Form on our website to schedule a free initial consultation with a truck accident attorney in Florida.