At the scene of an accident, your safety and the safety of those around you is paramount. You should call emergency services immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance. If you can, move to somewhere safe and check on others involved in the accident. If your injuries allow gather evidence from the scene such as photos, registration plate and vehicle information, and the contact information of any involved parties and witnesses.
Do not admit fault or speculate the cause of the accident. You should also seek immediate medical attention even if you feel ok as this will not only protect your health, it will also serve as vital evidence in your claim. Contact an experienced truck accident lawyer as soon as possible so that they can advise you on your next steps.
If you are involved in a truck accident that wasn’t your fault, you may also be entitled to compensation. Therefore, it is vital that you take down the relevant information and evidence at the scene of a truck accident to give yourself the best possible chance of receiving the compensation that you are entitled to.
At The Law Place, we have a team of highly skilled personal injury lawyers with over 75 years of combined experience in handling traffic accident cases. An adept personal injury attorney will collate all the relevant information and evidence from the truck accident and will make a successful case for compensation on your behalf.
Our phone lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so rest assured you can call us at a time most convenient for you, and an adept lawyer will be happy to help. At our law firm, we offer all our customers a free consultation, where we evaluate your claim and offer valuable legal advice on the next best steps to take, all at no-obligation. Call The Law Place on (941) 444-4444 and speak to a truck accident attorney today.
Best Steps to Take Following a Truck Accident
At The Law Place, we completely understand that it can be hard to think straight and to know what to do following a road collision, which is why we have compiled a step-by-step guide of the best steps to take following a truck accident in Florida.
Step 1: Be Prepared
Road collisions and truck accidents occur every day on Florida roads and highways. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FHSMV) website, there was a staggering 344,170 traffic crashes in Florida in 2014 alone.
If you are involved in an accident, there are a few simple steps that you can follow to prepare yourself.
- Keep a pen and paper in the glove box of your car.
- Always keep your registration and insurance information in your car where you can easily find it. Not only is this useful in the event of a truck accident, but it is also useful if you are ever stopped by a police officer.
- Keep a spare phone charger or portable battery pack in your car in case your phone is low on battery. Your phone is a critical tool in the event of an accident.
- Make sure you have the appropriate insurance coverage.
We’re here to serve you. Our phones are open 24 hours a day. Step 2: Stop at the Scene of the Accident
If you are unfortunate enough to find yourself involved in a traffic collision, then it is critical that you stop at the scene of the accident. If it is not safe to stop at the scene, then stop in a safe place as close to the scene of the accident as you can.
As noted in Florida Statute 316.061, all drivers are required by law to stop at the scene of an accident, to give information to other drivers, statements to law enforcement, and to render aid if it is necessary to do so. Failure to stop at the scene of an accident is classed as a criminal offense and could result in serious penalties and punishments.
If you crash into an unattended vehicle or cause property damage, then where possible, you should try to find the owner. If you cannot find the owner of the vehicle or property, you should leave a note with your contact information.
We’re Florida’s top litigation team with over 75 years of combined experience Step 3: Check for Injuries
Once you have safely stopped at the scene of the accident, it is important to check on yourself, as well as the wellbeing of any passengers and those in other vehicles that were involved in the accident. It is important to check on the wellbeing of others as soon as you possibly can, and in the event that anyone is in need of emergency medical care, then it is important to call for help as quickly as possible.
From the initial call to updates on your case status, we are here to get you answers. Step 4: Report the Accident to Law Enforcement
As with any accident, no matter the circumstances, it is important to report a traffic collision to law enforcement. If the accident is only minor, then you can contact Florida Highway Patrol. However, if the collision is serious, then call the police on 911 and provide them with the following information:
- Your full name.
- The location of you and your vehicle.
- If anyone involved in the accident is injured.
At a later date, you can then file an incident report at your nearest police station. This report will also help with a personal injury claim if you choose to pursue one.
Step 5: Gather Information From Anyone Involved in the Accident
At the scene of a truck accident, it is important to collect the following information:
- Vehicle information – This includes the license plate numbers and registration details of all vehicles involved in the accident. With a truck accident, it is important to also note down the trucking company name, as well as the make and model of the truck.
- Driver information – Ask the other drivers for their full name, current address, and contact details.
- Insurance information – Write down the insurance information of the other drivers, including their policy number.
- Witness information – If there are any witnesses to the accident, then ask them for their name and contact information. Witness accounts can be helpful in building a strong claim for compensation.
- Location – Make a note of the location of the accident, the date, time, and direction that each driver was heading.
- Traffic conditions – Make a note of the traffic conditions and any relevant road signs and markings.
- Weather conditions – Make a note of the weather conditions at the time of the accident.
- Damage – No matter how minor, it is important to make a note of any property damage and personal injury.
Ultimately the more information and evidence that you can gather at the scene of an accident, the stronger your claim will be, and the greater your chances of successfully claiming the compensation that you deserve.
Step 6: Photographic Evidence
By taking photographs of a truck accident, you can preserve vital evidence that can be used in your claim for compensation. It is important to ensure you take photos of the entire accident scene. You should also take close-up photos of all cars involved in the accident, the road and scene around the accident, any debris that may be scattered on the road, as well as tire marks and dangerous hazards. Ultimately, taking photographs at the scene of a truck accident can prove vital if you choose to pursue a claim for compensation.
Step 7: Evaluate Your Surroundings
At the scene of an accident, it is always useful to evaluate your surroundings and check for any cameras nearby. Obtaining video evidence can be hugely valuable when making a claim. Additionally, you should also take notice of anything that appears to be out of the ordinary, such as the attitude of other drivers.
Step 8: Contact Your Insurance Company and a Truck Accident Lawyer
After the accident, it is important to inform your insurance company of the incident that has taken place and seek legal advice from an experienced accident attorney.
If you would like to pursue a claim for compensation, then it is important to seek legal advice from a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after the incident. A skilled attorney can help to gather the necessary evidence and information that will support you with your claim. They will also guide you through the legal process to ensure you receive the best possible outcome.
Liability After a Truck Accident
When you agree to representation from The Law Place, we will determine who is liable. There are several parties who could be liable, and it is also possible for more than one party to share liability.
- Truck Driver – The truck driver could be liable if their actions caused the accident. For example, perhaps they were speeding, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or violating other traffic laws.
- Trucking Company – Trucking companies are required to adhere to strict state and federal regulations which include maintaining their vehicles, hiring trained drivers, and putting in policies and practices regarding driver schedules to avoid fatigued driving. If they acted negligently, then they could be liable for your injuries.
- Cargo Loaders – Liability can also extend to the company responsible for loading the truck. An improperly loaded vehicle can cause serious accidents and it is important that the at-fault party is identified.
- Vehicle Manufacturers – A truck defect may have contributed to the accident. In this can, the manufacturer of the vehicle or faulty part could be responsible for the accident.
- Third Parties – Other drivers or third parties may also be held liable if their actions contributed to the accident. This includes those responsible for road maintenance if poor road conditions played a role in the crash.
How an Attorney From The Law Place Can Help
At The Law Place, our truck accident lawyers have over 75 years of experience helping accident victims. We will ensure that no stone is left unturned in gathering evidence and determining liability. We understand the intricacies of state and federal law and will work tirelessly to build a strong claim.
We will handle all negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf and protect you from common insurance tactics used to minimize payments. We will fight for maximum compensation, while you focus on your recovery.
Another important role of your attorney is determining how much your settlement is worth. While some expenses such as your medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage may be relatively straightforward, other damages require the help of an experienced attorney to quantify and evidence. For example, if your injuries are ongoing then your future medical treatment and lost earnings should be included in your settlement.
It is also essential that your noneconomic damages are considered such as the trauma and emotional distress you have experienced as a result of the accident. You may have had to change the way you live your life, and perhaps your relationships have been affected. All of this should be reflected in your settlement and your attorney will know how to fight for fair damages, even those that are not easily quantifiable.
The majority of cases are settled outside of court, as this saves time and money. However, cases involving multiple liable parties or a liable party that is unwilling to negotiate may go to court. In this case, your truck accident lawyer from The Law Place will be ready to represent you and present your case in court.
Our attorneys have a wealth of experience in truck accident claims and understand how to navigate them effectively. They may use experts such as accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other specialists who can strengthen your case. This ensures that you have peace of mind knowing your case is in good hands.
We also work on a no-win, no-fee basis, so you can never be left out of pocket for reaching out for help.
What Should I Do at the Scene of a Truck Accident? FAQ
How important is it to obtain a police report?
The accident report from your accident is essential to your truck accident claim. It provides an official account of how the accident occurred.
What information should I gather at the truck accident scene?
At the truck accident scene, you should collect as much information as possible including the truck driver’s name, contact details, commercial driver’s license number, and insurance information. Take photos of the truck collision, skid marks, and any damage to vehicles and property. If there are any other involved parties or witnesses, you should also ask for their names and contact information.
Should I admit fault at the scene?
Never admit fault at the accident scene. You may not know all the facts of your case right away and things may not be as they seem. You need time to let your nervous system relax so you can think with clarity. You should discuss the case with your attorney who will help you to determine the facts of your case.
It is also important to note that Florida allows you to claim compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your settlement will be reduced to reflect your proportion of fault. The other party may look to exaggerate your part in the accident in order to pay you less then what you deserve and you should not give them any ammunition to do so.
How can a truck accident injury lawyer help me?
A truck accident attorney will gather evidence, negotiate with trucking companies and their insurers, and represent you in court if necessary. They will fight for truck accident victims for fair compensation for what are often serious injuries.
What if the truck driver was at fault?
The commercial truck driver may be at fault if their negligence caused your accident. However, it is also common for the trucking company to have liability, they may have failed to property maintain their vehicles, or encouraged long working hours leading to fatigue. This can make truck accident claims complex which is why it is important to speak to an experienced truck accident lawyer.
When should I seek medical treatment after a truck accident?
After a truck crash, seek medical attention immediately. Even if you feel fine, get checked by a medical professional. Some severe injuries may not show symptoms straight away including head injuries. Not only will immediate medical treatment protect your health, but it is also important for your truck accident case. Follow all recommended medical treatment and keep detailed records.
How do trucking companies typically respond to truck accident claims?
Trucking companies will have teams of lawyers and insurance adjusters who handle trucking accidents. Their aim is to minimize payouts and they can sometimes use underhanded tactics in order to avoid paying victims fair compensation. When you have representation from an attorney, you level the playing field. They will take over all negotiations on your behalf so you can focus on your recovery.
Are truck accident claims different from car accident claims?
Yes, truck accident claims are more complex due to factors like the size of tractor-trailers, federal regulations governing truck drivers, and the involvement of trucking companies. They often result in serious injuries and higher damages. That is why it is important to have representation from an attorney with experience in truck accidents – such as those found at The Law Place.
What if I have lost a loved one in a truck accident?
If you have lost a loved one in a truck accident, then you may be able to claim compensation in a wrongful death claim. We understand how difficult this can be and that no amount of money can bring back your loved one. However, the attorneys at The Law Place are prepared to be your advocate and give your case the time and dedication it deserves.
How much will representation from The Law Place cost?
At The Law Place, we believe that all truck accident victims deserve fair compensation, which means having high-quality legal representation. That is why our attorneys work on a no-win, no-fee basis. We only take payment when we win your case and as a pre-determined percentage of your settlement. If for some reason, you do not receive compensation, you will not owe us anything.
Speak to an Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident in Florida, then it is strongly advised to seek help from a truck accident attorney as soon as possible after the incident. A knowledgeable accident attorney will be able to guide you through the legal process and will do their best to ensure you win your claim and receive the compensation that you deserve.
At our law firm, we have a team of adept defense attorneys with an abundance of experience in handling truck accident cases. We offer all our customers a free consultation where we will assess the legitimacy of your claim and offer valuable legal advice on the next best steps to take. Our phone lines are open around the clock, so you can call us when you need us most, and an accident lawyer will be there to help. Call us today at (941) 444-4444 and get started with your claim.
