If you have been in an accident involving a commercial vehicle, understanding what to do next can be difficult. We recommend that, depending on whether or not you have left the scene, you call emergency services, receive medical attention, and avoid discussing your circumstances with others. Our team also recommends that you work with a lawyer, as this is a great way to improve your opportunity for receiving compensation for losses and to ensure you have a full understanding of your legal rights.
You don’t have to manage legal matters or the healing process alone, as the truck accident and personal injury lawyers of Goza & Honnold can help. We have a long track record of success in legal matters, and we would be honored to offer you our support and services during challenging times.
What Steps Should You Take if You Get Hit by a Commercial Vehicle?
Following a commercial truck accident where you have been hit by a commercial vehicle, you may want to know what steps to take next. Depending on the circumstances and how long it has been since the incident, we can help you move forward in a way that mitigates risk and improves your odds of legal success.
Call Emergency Services
If possible, try to contact emergency services after your commercial truck accident by calling 9-1-1. Getting emergency dispatchers to the location quickly can ensure that you receive medical care as soon as possible. This will also be helpful to you in the future, as a police or crash report will be required if you want to take legal action against the liable parties.
Seek Medical Attention
Following an accident resulting in injuries, we encourage accident victims to seek further medical attention. While not all bodily harm is necessarily an emergency, it is essential to assess all potential bodily harm and follow a provider’s treatment recommendations to recover as fully and promptly as possible. Waiting to seek medical attention after an accident can make it difficult to determine whether any injuries are the result of a commercial vehicle accident. If you wait too long to seek medical attention, this may be used against you should you pursue a personal injury lawsuit to seek compensation for your injuries.
Document the Accident Scene and Exchange Information With the Other Drivers
In the aftermath of a commercial vehicle accident, documenting the accident scene and exchanging information with the other drivers involved is crucial. This step can help you gather evidence and build a strong case for your personal injury lawsuit. Here’s what you should do:
- Take Photos and Videos: Capture images and videos of the accident scene, including any damage to vehicles, road conditions, and visible injuries. This visual evidence can be invaluable in proving the extent of the damage and the circumstances of the accident.
- Exchange Information: Collect contact and insurance information from the other drivers involved. This includes names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s license numbers, and insurance policy details.
- Gather Witness Information: If there are any witnesses to the accident, get their names and contact information. Witness statements can provide additional support for your case.
- Note the Details: Record the location, date, and time of the accident. These details can help establish the context of the incident.
- Document Injuries and Damage: Take note of any visible injuries or damage to property. This documentation can be critical when seeking compensation for your losses.
When exchanging information with the other drivers, be cautious. Avoid making any statements that could be used against you in court, and do not admit fault or apologize for the accident. Focus on gathering information and documenting the scene to protect your rights.
Stay Off Social Media
We encourage all of our clients to avoid using their social media accounts, at least during the pendency of a legal proceeding, especially if there is a temptation to post online. Text posts, comments, photos, and videos can all be used against you during legal proceedings, even if they seem innocuous. To avoid the risk of misrepresentation, we suggest you avoid posting online altogether for the duration of your legal matters. It is also important to ensure you do not delete any posts, photos, and videos from your social media accounts as you may be asked to preserve such information if you become involved in a legal proceeding.
Avoid Discussing Your Legal Matters Outside of the Attorney/Client Relationship
We encourage you to avoid discussing your legal situation with others, including close friends and family members. Any information you share with others may be used against you in court, so we encourage you to maintain a sense of privacy. All communications concerning your lawsuit should be limited to communications with your attorney.
Retain Legal Help From a Truck Accident Lawyer
One of the most helpful steps you can follow after a commercial vehicle accident is to retain a lawyer who understands the complexities involved in cases with a truck driver. A truck accident lawyer can help you in several ways, all of which make it easier to reduce stress, move through the legal system quickly, maintain your privacy, and focus on your recovery.
Working with a truck accident lawyer doesn’t have to be costly. The truck accident lawyers from Goza & Honnold work on a contingency fee basis and offer free consultations, so you don’t pay attorney fees unless you win your case. Working with a lawyer reduces the risk of mistakes, and winning compensation for your losses means that only the liable parties are likely to pay your attorney fees.
Relax and Focus on Your Recovery
Following an accident, the most important thing to worry about is your health and recovery. We encourage you to do everything within your power to reduce stress and maximize relaxation, as this is a great way to speed up the healing process. Your truck accident lawyer can help with this by managing your paperwork, collecting and analyzing evidence, and taking the lead on other legal tasks related to your claims.
Understanding Your Rights and Options
If you’ve been involved in a commercial vehicle accident, it’s essential to understand your rights and options. You may be entitled to seek compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, and lost wages. Here are some key things to know:
- Right to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit: You have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party. This legal action can help you seek compensation for your injuries and other damages.
- Multiple Parties for Compensation: You may be able to seek compensation from multiple parties, including the commercial vehicle driver, the trucking company, and the insurance company. Each party may share responsibility for the accident.
- Right to Medical Attention: You have the right to seek medical attention and receive treatment for your injuries. Prompt medical care is crucial for your recovery and for documenting your injuries.
- Right to Legal Representation: You have the right to hire a commercial vehicle accident lawyer to represent you and advocate for your rights. An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and maximize your compensation.
Understanding your rights and options is the first step toward seeking fair compensation for your losses. A knowledgeable commercial vehicle accident lawyer can provide the guidance and support you need during this challenging time.
Potential Liable Parties in a Commercial Vehicle Accident
In a commercial vehicle accident, there may be multiple parties liable for your injuries and damages. Identifying all potential liable parties is essential for seeking full compensation. Here are some potential liable parties:
- The Commercial Vehicle Driver: The driver may be liable if they were negligent or reckless in causing the accident. This could include actions such as speeding, distracted driving, or driving under the influence.
- The Trucking Company: The trucking company may be liable if they failed to properly train or supervise the driver, or if they failed to maintain the vehicle. Companies are responsible for ensuring their drivers and vehicles are safe and compliant with regulations.
- The Insurance Company: The insurance company may be liable if they fail to provide adequate coverage or compensation for your injuries and damages. Insurance policies are meant to cover losses, and failure to do so can lead to additional legal action.
- The Manufacturer: The manufacturer of the commercial vehicle or its parts may be liable if they were defective or malfunctioned, contributing to the accident. Product liability can play a significant role in commercial vehicle accidents.
Identifying all liable parties can be complex, but it is crucial for ensuring you receive fair compensation. A commercial vehicle accident lawyer can help you investigate the accident and determine who is responsible for your injuries and damages.
Dealing With Insurance Companies and Negotiating a Settlement
Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially after a commercial vehicle accident. Here are some tips for negotiating a settlement:
- Hire a Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer: A lawyer can represent you and advocate for your rights. They have the experience and knowledge to handle negotiations and ensure you receive fair compensation.
- Keep Detailed Records: Maintain detailed records of your injuries, medical expenses, and lost wages. This documentation is essential for proving the extent of your damages and supporting your claim.
- Be Cautious in Communication: Be cautious when communicating with the insurance company. Avoid making any statements that could be used against you, and do not admit fault or downplay your injuries.
- Prepare to Negotiate: Be prepared to negotiate and advocate for fair compensation. Insurance companies may initially offer a lower settlement, so it’s important to stand firm and seek the compensation you deserve.
- Consider Mediation or Arbitration: If you are unable to reach a settlement with the insurance company, consider seeking mediation or arbitration. These alternative dispute resolution methods can help you resolve your claim without going to court.
Remember, dealing with insurance companies can be complex and time-consuming. It’s essential to have a qualified commercial vehicle accident lawyer on your side to help you navigate the process and advocate for your rights. With the right legal support, you can focus on your recovery while your lawyer handles the negotiations.
Get Valuable Assistance From Goza & Honnold’s Truck Accident Lawyers in Missouri
If you have been in an accident with a commercial vehicle, such as a company car or semi-truck, you don’t have to manage your legal matters or recovery alone. The truck accident lawyers of Goza & Honnold have extensive experience, and our clients trust us to bring them excellent results in difficult times. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, allowing you to focus on healing rather than worrying about your finances.
Our team members hold positions and accolades from several organizations, including the American College of Trial Lawyers, the International Society of Barristers, and the Missouri and Kansas Super Lawyers. When you retain our support and services, we can answer your questions, help you navigate the complexities of filing an insurance claim, and give you access to helpful resources and strategies. You can schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys by calling (913) 451-3433 or completing the contact form on our website.
Goza & Honnold, a trusted personal injury law firm serving Missouri and Kansas, is known for our dedication to client advocacy and trial excellence. With a strong focus on auto accidents, medical negligence, and product liability cases, our experienced attorneys work diligently to secure fair outcomes while being fully prepared to take cases to trial when necessary. We work closely with our clients to build strong cases that reflect their unique experiences.