How to Protect Your Rights When You Are Involved in an 18 Wheeler Accident
It is crucial to seek legal counsel should you be involved in an 18-wheeler accident. An experienced truck accident law firm can assist you navigate the legal process and recover compensation for your injuries.
Commercial trucks are much bigger and heavier than passenger cars which makes them more difficult to maneuver on roads. This can lead to serious injuries and even death in the event of an accident.
What should you do following an accident?
There are some things you can do to ensure your safety in the event of a truck accident. If you follow these steps, you'll be able to get the compensation you're due from the person responsible for the crash.
The first step is to preserve as much evidence from the accident scene as possible. Photographs should be taken of the car that was damaged, the 18-wheeler that hit you, the scene of the accident, and any injuries. Also, make sure you obtain any witness statements and contact information.
You should also make sure you receive medical attention if you are injured. It is crucial to seek treatment as soon after an accident as soon as you can. This will allow you to protect your legal rights and show that you have suffered injuries as a result of the accident.
An 18-wheeler crash can cause serious injuries that can cause permanent disability or even death. The most frequent injuries are the traumatic brain injury (TBI), back and neck damage and whiplash.
Getting immediate medical care is especially critical for victims of truck accidents. Insurance companies will look over your medical records and if there's a gap between the time you visited your health professional and the time you file your claim it could be used as a basis to argue the severity of your injuries.
A law firm can help you understand your rights after an 18-wheeler crash and help ensure that you receive the compensation that you're due. The legal team of experts at Friedman & Simon, L.L.P. New York law will hold the responsible parties accountable for your injuries or damages. We will strive to secure the best possible outcome in your case.
Who is responsible?
Unlike car accidents where the driver responsible is only one 18-wheeler accidents may involve multiple drivers. It doesn't matter if they're the ones responsible for poor maintenance, failing to adhere to safety standards or simply ignoring the rules of the road, we can assist you in determining who is at fault and pursue the compensation you deserve.
In the event of an accident involving commercial trucks, there are numerous federal guidelines that truck drivers and their employers must follow. They include maintenance and inspection requirements as well as hours of service rules, safe driving practices, and driver education.
You may be able file an injury claim against the trucking company as well as the driver, as well as any other parties involved. It isn't always easy to get all the information from a police report or prove that one of the parties in the accident was in violation of an auto code in the incident.
18 wheeler accident case norfolk is vital to have an 18-wheeler or truck accident lawyer who is skilled and has the resources to investigate every detail. They will know where and how to get the evidence you require.
State laws may have different methods of determining fault. For example there are many states that apply a rule known as "comparative negligence," which permits victims to seek damages less their percentage of fault. This means that you will not be eligible to receive any compensation if you are found to be 51% responsible for an accident.
These state laws will not suffice. The insurance of the trucking company can also play a significant role in the amount of the compensation you receive. An attorney who is familiar with these complex policies will assist you in obtaining the maximum amount for your injuries.
What amount of compensation can I receive?
A crash involving a truck can be a devastating event that can result in serious injuries and property damage. However, there are options to get compensation for your losses following an accident.
The severity of your injuries and the reason for the crash will determine the amount of compensation you are entitled to. For instance, if the truck accident left you with spinal cord injuries, you can expect to receive more in damages than someone who was injured but did not suffer a devastating injury.
Fortunately, a knowledgeable 18 wheeler accident law firm will assist you in gathering the evidence you need to make a claim against the truck driver or their employer. For instance, the majority of trucks have electronic data recorders which can keep track of information like speed and direction of the drive, hard braking incidents and other crucial details.
Your lawyer will also review the medical bills and other expenses that you've been able to incur as a result your injuries. These costs can be substantial especially if you're forced to have extensive physical therapy or surgery as a result.
You could be able to claim your lost wages in the event that you missed work due to your injuries. For instance, if you spent 6 months out of work due to an accident, you may be able to claim this amount as a part of your damages.
If your case is extremely complicated, you may be able to claim compensation for any additional damages, for example, the loss of consortium. This settlement is for victims who were unable or unwilling to share the companionship of their spouses or children as a result of their injuries.
You may be able to recover money for past and future property damage. This includes your vehicle's repair costs as well as any other costs you've incurred as a result of the accident.
How do I negotiate with insurance companies?
Insurance companies have lots of leverage in negotiations, and it's essential to ensure that you are getting the amount of compensation you're entitled to. Negotiating is the most effective way to ensure that you receive the full amount regardless of whether you are dealing directly with an insurance company or with an 18-wheeler accident law firm.
Insurance adjusters know that they have a finite amount of money to spend on your case, and so they will often try to minimize the compensation you receive. This is often done by manipulating the facts of your claim or by twisting your words.
It is important that you partner with a seasoned lawyer who can maximize your settlement should you choose to negotiate. Additionally, you should only contact the insurance company through your attorney, and not through any other parties.
Additionally, you must note down all of your interactions with the insurance company to ensure that your lawyer can build a strong case. Your lawyer can also provide proof of your injuries and expenses to aid you in winning the negotiation.
Although the negotiation process can be lengthy and challenging however, it is possible to reach an understanding with the insurance company. It is contingent on the amount of the settlement you're looking for, the willingness of the insurance company to settle, and your desire for a fair settlement.
It is essential that you select an 18 wheeler accident law firm with experience with commercial vehicle accidents. Find out if they have an impressive track record of success in these instances and also ensure that they have the resources to investigate the incident right away.
What happens if I don't have insurance?
If you don't have insurance there are still options to get the medical treatment you require. Many hospitals and clinics offer free screenings during certain times of year for high blood pressure, diabetes, or cholesterol. They may also provide prevention services such as smoking cessation, weight management, and vision tests. These are excellent opportunities for you to get the attention and treatment you require. If you have a major disease, you'll be able to go to the emergency room. This can be costly. It's best to save money for the time you will require it.