Los Angeles, the City of Angels, has its significant share of busy roads and tragic accidents. Among the tragic accidents, truck accidents are the most devastating. Known for being the backbone of the U.S. economy, trucks have also been a leading cause of road accidents.
The causes of trucking accidents in Los Angeles can range from driver negligence to manufacturing issues, but you need to know what to do after a truck accident.
This blog is the perfect guide for understanding what you should and shouldn’t do after getting hit by a truck.
Do’s
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
The first thing you must make sure you do after getting involved in a truck accident is to get medical attention as soon as possible. After getting hit, check for any injuries and move to the side of the road or another closer, safer location so you don’t sustain further damage. Once you are safe, call emergency services and wait for the first responders to arrive.
Once the emergency medical team arrives, they will conduct emergency tests on you and attend to any wounds you have sustained. This initial check-up can help detect any hidden injuries like internal bleeding and whiplash. Even if nothing is detected, it is always better to have a thorough examination done as soon as possible.
Ensure you properly follow the treatment and go for any recommended follow-up. The medical record that is created after the accident can be a solid piece of evidence that can support your claim.
2. Report the Accident to Authorities
After the accident, once you have called emergency services, law enforcement will also be there. Once the cops are there, they will conduct an investigation of the accident scene and gather information about the same. The cops will also come to you to get your statement.
When giving your statement, only state the facts you know and avoid speculation. The cops will then officially lodge a report about the accident, which is called the police report. You can ask to get a copy of the report, as when it comes to claims, police reports serve as an unbiased account of what transpired during the accident.
3. Gather Evidence at the Scene
To support your claim, you will need as much evidence as you can collect. One thing to remember is that visual evidence is golden when it comes to accident claims. You can take pictures and videos of almost everything related to the accident, such as your injuries, vehicle damage, road condition, etc. Collect the contact information and statements from people who have witnessed the accident, as it can support your claim.
You can also try to get surveillance or dashcam footage of the accident, as it could be useful.
4. Consult an Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accident cases are much more complicated than other road accidents, as they involve multiple parties. Due to the constant demand, the trucking industry is large and strong, meaning trucking companies can easily access strong and aggressive lawyers to defend their companies. Planning to handle the claim yourself will likely lead to you returning empty-handed.
Hiring a local lawyer who is experienced with truck accident claims can be helpful, as they can help determine which party can be held liable. They can also ensure that the process is filed on time, determine the value of your losses, negotiate for you, and even represent you in court.
Don’ts
1. Don’t Admit Fault
It is important to understand that anything you say to someone involved in the accident can be used against you. This includes saying ‘I’m sorry,’ as it can be counted as an admission of guilt. Always make sure to stick to the facts and do not speculate. When it comes to discussions with the defense, let your lawyer handle it.
2. Don’t Accept the First Settlement Offer
Insurance companies often employ bad faith tactics to get you to accept a lower payment or avoid paying you. This includes offering an initial payment offer, saying that the said amount is all they can give you. You must understand that if you accept this offer, you cannot go back when you realize that the money you got is insufficient.
Consult a lawyer and get a proper evaluation to determine the extent of your losses.
3. Don’t Post About the Accident on Social Media
You might get tempted to post about your accident on social media, but this is a terrible idea. It is best if you refrain from posting on social media for the time being, as it is likely that the defense is keeping an eye on your page. Posting pictures of traveling, hanging out with friends, updating your followers about the accident, etc., can nullify your claim.
4. Don’t Delay Filing a Claim
No matter what type of accident it may be, filing a claim has a specific period that must be followed, called the statute of limitations. Failing to file your claim at the said time will lead to the claim being denied. The later you file the claim, the higher the chances of evidence getting lost or witnesses forgetting the details of the accident.
Hiring a lawyer as soon as possible can ensure that your claim is filed within the statute of limitations and with all evidence to strengthen it.
