Experiencing a truck accident can be an overwhelming event. In the aftermath, questions about legal rights and responsibilities may arise. One crucial question often on the minds of those involved is, “When would I need to hire a lawyer?” Here, we will explore the timeline for seeking legal assistance and the ways in which an attorney can help after a truck accident.
Overview of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents can take numerous forms, each with unique causes and highly destructive results. They include;
- Rear-end collisions: One common form of truck accidents involves rear-end collisions. These incidents are mostly due to breaking suddenly, driving while distracted, or relatively short braking distances. Due to the truck’s size and weight, rear-end collisions can lead to severe injuries and/or damage.
- Jackknife accidents: Jackknife accidents occur when a truck’s trailer swings out to the side and forms an angle resembling an open jackknife. This can happen when a truck driver loses control due to slippery road conditions or abrupt maneuvers. Jackknife accidents pose a significant threat to other vehicles sharing the road.
- Underride accidents: These accidents happen when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the trailer of a truck. Underride accidents are particularly dangerous and end up resulting in catastrophic injuries. Inadequate safety features on trucks or poorly maintained trailers can contribute to underride accidents.
- Blind spot accidents: Trucks have substantial blind spots, and accidents frequently occur when smaller vehicles enter and remain unseen in these areas. Blind spot accidents can easily be triggered by failure to signal or check blind spots comprehensively. This leads to collisions during lane changes or turns.
When to Seek Legal Assistance
So, exactly when should you seek legal assistance? Here is a timeline we think will help;
#In the Immediate Aftermath
After a truck accident, prioritizing safety is paramount. Ensure that medical attention is sought for any injuries and contact law enforcement to report the incident. While at the scene, if possible, gather relevant information, including contact details of involved parties, witnesses, and law enforcement officers. Note that it might not be quite impactful to hire a lawyer at this stage.
#Medical Attention and Documentation
After you have addressed immediate safety concerns, ensure you get medical attention for any injuries you have sustained. We advise that you keep records of medical treatment and gather any documents of expenses related to injuries. At this point, consulting with a lawyer becomes crucial as they can guide you on preserving evidence and documenting the extent of your injuries.
#During Insurance Claims
Dealing with insurance companies can be complex, especially when it comes to truck accidents. The insurance process often gets overwhelming, and you might encounter difficulties in securing fair compensation. This is the time to consider hiring an attorney. Our dedicated personal injury attorneys at Ruhmann Law Firm can guide you through the complex process of insurance claims and negotiate on your behalf.
How an Attorney Can Help
Hiring an attorney after a truck accident comes in handy in various ways. Here is what attorneys bring to the table;
Legal Expertise
Truck accidents have long and complex legal structures. Hiring an attorney ensures you have someone with the necessary legal expertise to deal with the complexities of personal injury law. We can assess the circumstances of your case and provide guidance on the best course of action.
Investigation and Evidence Preservation
Soon after being hired, our attorneys will initiate an investigation into the accident. From gathering evidence to checking available surveillance footage, we swing right into work. Timely action is crucial to ensure the preservation of evidence before it is lost or compromised.
Determining Liability
The success of any personal injury case largely depends on establishing liability. A skilled attorney will work to determine who is at fault for the accident. Multiple parties may be liable in truck accident cases. Identifying all responsible parties is essential for a comprehensive legal strategy.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often attempt to play lowball and offer an amount less than you deserve. A legal expert can handle negotiations with insurance companies and advocate for your rights. We ensure that any settlement offered is fair and takes into account all present and future damages.
Seek Legal Guidance Today
Our experienced attorneys at Ruhmann Law Firm are ready to help you with the case and provide the knowledge needed to get the desired results. If you have been involved in a truck accident, get in touch with us to understand your rights and explore the options available to you. We are always here to help.