When you’re hurt in a truck accident that wasn’t your fault, you want to make sure responsible parties are held accountable and you get the compensation you deserve. At James Alexander Law, our truck accident attorneys in central New York advise clients on how to protect their rights and avoid compromising any personal injury claims that arise from a crash. These tips can help the process run more smoothly and give you a better chance of recovering maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Seek Medical Treatment Right Away
After a crash, you may be overwhelmed and unsure of what to do. Symptoms of some injuries don’t appear right away, so you may believe you’re unhurt and forego medical care. Failing to get checked out by a doctor not only jeopardizes your health, it can also make recovering compensation more difficult. Medical records provide essential proof of the severity of your injuries, which your truck accident lawyer will need to build a solid case on your behalf should you decide to file a personal injury claim. Even if you think you’re not seriously hurt, it’s always a good idea to go to the emergency room or see a healthcare provider as soon as possible.
Collect Evidence
To win a truck accident lawsuit, you must provide evidence to prove who is at fault and what happened. If you are able, take photos of the scene, damage to vehicles, and your injuries. Obtain insurance and contact information from all involved parties and jot down the names and phone numbers of any witnesses. Use the voice recorder on your phone or write down everything you can remember about the accident. Gather any other evidence you think is relevant. If possible, obtain a copy of the police report at the scene.
Do Not Sign Anything or Give a Statement to Insurers
Large trucking companies and their insurance companies often send representatives to the scene of an accident. If any of them approach you or contact you after the crash, do not speak to them. Don’t sign anything or accept a settlement without talking to a truck accident lawyer first. Insurance adjusters may try underhanded tactics to get you to settle for a minimal amount and sign a release of liability form. Doing this will take away your right to pursue additional compensation.
Seek the Advice of a Truck Accident Attorney
If you believe you may have grounds for a personal injury claim, it’s important to speak to a truck accident lawyer as soon as you can. An attorney can evaluate your case and advise you of your options for recovering damages. If you do have a viable claim, a truck accident attorney will handle all aspects of your case, including communication and negotiations with insurers. A personal injury lawyer with a track record of success will also have the knowledge and resources necessary to thoroughly investigate your case and develop compelling arguments that prove who was at fault.
Do Not Discuss Your Case with Anyone Except Your Lawyer
The only person you should talk to about your truck accident claim is your attorney. It can be tempting to discuss it with family or friends or to post about it on social media. Attorneys for the trucking company and insurance companies will scour the internet for any evidence that could show you weren’t seriously injured. Most truck accident lawyers advise personal injury victims to deactivate their social media accounts and refrain from posting until their case is completed. People you know can also be called as witnesses and may have to answer questions under oath, so it’s best to avoid talking about your case. Your lawyer can answer questions or address any concerns you may have.
Be Honest
It’s critical to be honest with your attorney about the accident, your injuries, and any preexisting medical conditions you may have. Stick to the facts, and make sure to disclose any pertinent information to your truck accident lawyer. It’s their job to present as strong a case as possible, and if facts that were concealed come to light, it could jeopardize your credibility, which in turn may derail your claim for damages.
Contact a Central New York Truck Accident Attorney
For more than 38 years, James Alexander Law has served personal injury clients in Central New York, Rochester, and the Southern Tier and North Country areas. To schedule a free case evaluation with a truck accident lawyer, contact us online or call 1-800-529-1333. With offices in East Syracuse and Rochester, NY, we make it easy to find the trustworthy legal representation you need.
