Accidents involving commercial trucks are more likely to result in life-threatening injuries, like burns, traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries. If you were recently injured in a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation. However, in order to receive that compensation, you have to take certain steps after your accidents. Here are several tips for maximizing your truck accident settlement.
Obtain Evidence
In the immediate aftermath of a truck accident, gathering evidence is probably not at the top of your mind. However, your case depends on strong evidence. The more concrete evidence you have, the better chance you have of receiving a fair settlement. Try to take photos of the accident scene and your injuries if you’re able to. It’s also important to get a copy of the police report and the names and contact information of witnesses. When you get home, remember to write down everything you remember about the accident in a journal, such as what the truck driver was doing before the collision and how you felt immediately after the crash.
See a Doctor
Getting medical attention immediately after a truck accident isn’t just crucial for your health. It’s also important for your personal injury claim. A doctor will assess the severity of your injuries and recommend the appropriate treatment. If you wait too long to get medical attention for your injuries, the insurance company may try to argue that you aren’t as hurt as you claim to be and deny your case.
Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
Whether your doctor recommends physical therapy or bedrest, you should carefully follow the treatment plan. Your doctor has your best interests at heart and wants to see you make a fully recovery. If you skip doctor’s appointments and don’t take your recovery seriously, you’re giving the insurance company a reason to deny your claim.
Stay Off Social Media
In this day and age, people check their social media pages every day. However, if you’re in the middle of a truck accident lawsuit, it’s best to stay off social media. The other side may watch your social media accounts and try to use what you post against you.
Don’t Accept the Insurance Company’s First Offer
After you’ve been injured in a truck accident, the truck company’s insurance company will likely contact you and offer a settlement. While it may be tempting to accept the offer and get everything done and over with, avoid doing this. The insurance company’s initial settlement offer usually isn’t very high. It’s better to work with an experienced personal injury lawyer and have him or her negotiate a fair settlement.
If you were injured in a truck accident, talk to an experienced personal injury lawyer, as soon as possible. He or she can help you file a timely claim and improve your chances of getting the settlement you deserve.