6 Steps to Follow After You Have Been in a Truck Accident
Truck accidents can be challenging and overwhelming. The chances are good that you or someone you love has sustained serious injuries, and you may not know what to do next.
If you have been involved in a truck accident, there are several important steps you should take to protect your well-being and ensure the best possible outcome. Here’s a guideline of actions to consider:
- Seek medical attention. Your health and safety should be your top priority. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it’s crucial to get a thorough medical evaluation to identify any hidden injuries and document them for insurance purposes. Your well-being is of utmost importance, and documenting your injuries will also be crucial for any lawsuit you may wish to file.
- About catastrophic injuries: While some injuries may be minor, catastrophic injuries occur often in truck accidents. These include: traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, severe burns, and traumatic amputation.
- Contact law enforcement. Call the police and report the accident. They will arrive at the scene, assess the situation, and create an official accident report. This report will be valuable when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.
- Document your surroundings and your injuries. If possible, document the injuries you sustained and the way the scene of the truck wreck looks. Take photos of the vehicles involved, the surrounding area, yourself, your passengers, and any other visible damage. Obtain that can support your case.
- Gather information. Get the contact information of all parties involved in the accident, including the truck driver, witnesses, and insurance information. Also, request copies of police reports, medical records, and any other documentation. This information will be essential for a lawsuit and to facilitate communication with relevant parties.
- About documentation: Trucks are often equipped with dash cams and black boxes. We can request that information and data, along with cell phone data, to prove liability.
- Notify your insurance company. Report the truck accident to your insurance provider promptly. Provide them with accurate details about the incident and any injuries you sustained.
- About dealing with insurance: you don’t have to talk to your insurance company at all; our Richmond-based injury lawyers will handle all correspondence on your behalf. Don’t assume that just because the insurance company represents you that it will be on your side; it won’t. Insurance companies only care about protecting their profits. While you do want to report the accident (so it doesn’t look suspicious), we can handle everything else, including assisting you with any documentation you are required to fill out.
- Consult with a Richmond-based truck accident attorney. It is highly recommended to consult with an experienced Richmond-based truck accident attorney as soon as possible after the accident At Phelan Petty, we assess the details of your case, provide legal advice, and guide you through the entire legal process. An attorney will help protect your rights, handle communication with insurance companies and other parties, and build a strong case on your behalf.
Remember, every accident is unique, so it’s essential to consult with a professional who can provide personalized advice based on the specific circumstances of your case. Truck accidents pose significant dangers to other motorists on the road. These accidents can result in devastating injuries and substantial damages. If you find yourself injured in a truck accident, it is crucial to take immediate steps to protect your rights and seek appropriate compensation.
Filing an injury lawsuit after a truck accident in Virginia
If you wish to file a personal injury lawsuit against the truck driver and other liable parties, be aware of the statute of limitations, which is the time frame within which you must file a lawsuit. This time frame varies by jurisdiction, so it’s important to consult with your attorney and ensure your lawsuit is filed within the specified time limit. In Virginia, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is two years from when the accident occurred.
Do I have to go to trial if I was injured in a truck wreck?
At Phelan Petty, we prepare your case for a jury trial from the start, but settling may be the better option for you. In fact, our preparation and willingness to try cases often encourages insurance companies to offer more reasonable settlements. If you accept an offer, the insurance company will pay out your claim, with the funds typically covering outstanding medical bills and related expenses. Afterward, you will receive a check for the remaining award.
In the best-case scenario, this entire process can be completed within a few months of you reaching your maximum medical improvement. However, securing insurance settlements can often be a lengthier and more challenging process than expected. Despite the sympathetic appearance of insurance companies, their primary goal is to minimize payouts or even deny legitimate claims. If your claim has been denied after a crash with a truck in Virginia, don’t lose hope. There are still potential avenues for compensation available to you. Understanding the common strategies that insurance companies employ to justify unfair claim denials can help you navigate this situation more effectively.
If you have been a victim of a truck accident caused by negligence, the Richmond-based injury attorneys at Phelan Petty are here to provide you with the necessary support and legal representation. Our dedicated team has the experience to handle cases involving commercial vehicles and can effectively take on trucking companies on your behalf. Our goal is to fight for your rights and pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses. We have secured millions for our clients through settlements and verdicts in truck accident cases. To learn more about how we can assist you, please call us or fill out our contact form. We proudly serve clients in Richmond and across Virginia.
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Michael Phelan is a Virginia trial attorney who practices with a special focus on traumatic brain injury (TBI) cases, pharmaceutical and medical device claims, product liability cases, and truck accidents. Michael’s peers have consistently recognized him for his excellence as a trial lawyer, and his clients have praised him for his commitment to deep research, his outstanding communication skills, and his sincerity and dedication.