According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, as of June 28, 2024, there have been 924 crashes involving semi-trucks, and sadly, 22 of these have led to fatalities. These tragic accidents have taken the lives of 24 individuals and resulted in injuries to 198 others.
The large size and heavy weight of 18-wheeler trucks can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. Those affected might struggle with increasing medical expenses and emotional turmoil. If you find yourself in an accident, it is important to ensure you receive compensation that reflects all the damages you’ve encountered, such as bills, lost income, and other related damages.
Asheville truck accident lawyer Daniel Bridgmant suggests that you should work with an experienced lawyer who can help you document your injuries and understand trucking regulations. These are crucial steps to obtaining fair compensation for your losses.
Learn more about these important steps to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.
Hiring a Competent Truck Accident Lawyer
Hiring a skilled truck accident lawyer is the first step to maximizing your compensation if a truck hits you. An experienced truck accident lawyer can handle the intricacies of these claims. Having a lawyer who understands trucking regulations, insurance plans, and liability laws can significantly enhance your chances of receiving full compensation.
When looking for a truck accident lawyer, seek out someone who has successfully handled similar cases. An experienced lawyer will defend your rights and guide you throughout the process. They’ll persistently research the accident, gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and represent you in court.
Collecting and Preserving Evidence
To prove your case after an 18-wheeler hit, you’ll need to document the situation. Capture photos and videos of the accident scene, including the vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, and weather conditions. Request witness contact information and statements. Keep any doctor’s notes, medicines, and bills to prove your injuries. Get the police report and verify it. Preserve accident-damaged clothing, cars, and personal belongings.
Preventing evidence loss or destruction requires immediate action. If you have been involved in a truck accident, reaching out to a lawyer can help you understand the evidence you will need for your claim. Keep in mind that the more evidence you can gather and preserve, the higher your chances of maximizing your 18-wheeler accident compensation.
Understanding Insurance Coverage
Once you have collected evidence from an 18-wheeler accident, it is important to understand the insurance coverage involved. Exploring your insurance choices is necessary. The truck driver’s commercial insurance usually covers vehicle accidents. Trucking companies also carry liability insurance for driver accidents. Understanding these policies can assist you in handling the process of filing insurance claims.
You should also check your insurance. Your personal auto insurance might help you out in cases where you are involved in an accident with a truck driver who does not have enough coverage or none at all. Your health insurance may also cover accident-related medical bills. Knowing all these insurance coverages will help you get the most reimbursement. An experienced lawyer can explain how these insurance plans interact and enhance your case.
Calculating Damages and Losses
Calculating damages and losses after an accident is crucial for ensuring you receive fair compensation. Start by assessing the damage to your car and personal items and obtaining repair or replacement estimates for your claim. Estimate your lost income by documenting missed work due to injuries, and gather any employer records showing your absences and compensation.
Next, consider the physical and emotional toll the accident has taken on you. While more subjective, pain and suffering damages play a significant role in your overall compensation. By thoroughly estimating all financial losses and documenting the impact on your well-being, you can build a detailed and strong claim to secure the reimbursement you deserve.
Negotiating a Fair Settlement
To negotiate a fair settlement after being hit by an 18-wheeler, it’s crucial to gather all necessary documentation and evidence to support your claim. This encompasses police reports, medical records, photos from the accident scene, witness statements, and any other pertinent details that can bolster your case.
Sharing a detailed and understandable account of the accident and its effects will be essential when discussing matters with the insurer of the party responsible.
Engage in settlement discussions with confidence and professionalism but if you’re still unsure how to effectively manage this, you should hire a lawyer. An insurance company cannot exploit you with the help of a lawyer.
Conclusion
Dealing with the complexities of truck accident claims after an 18-wheeler hit can be overwhelming, but with the right legal support, you can protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for the physical, emotional, and financial hardships you’ve endured. By taking these steps, you can improve your chances of achieving a fair and just outcome for your accident.
