Worst Mistakes to Avoid After a Truck Accident

Experiencing a truck accident can be a harrowing and overwhelming ordeal, marked by pain and stress.

Due to the sheer size and power of commercial trucks, such collisions often result in severe injuries.

Tragically, many truck accidents end in fatalities, leaving grieving loved ones to grapple with not only their loss but also the need to pursue wrongful death claims.

For survivors, the aftermath of a truck accident can bring a wave of financial hardship, stemming from mounting medical bills and the inability to work.

In such dire circumstances, the expertise of a truck accident lawyer from The Firm can play a pivotal role in safeguarding your legal rights and securing the maximum compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and the emotional toll you've endured.

Mistakes to Avoid After a Truck Accident

Neglecting to Obtain a Police Report Following a truck accident, the initial step is to promptly dial 911 or have someone do so on your behalf.

Local law enforcement or the Georgia State Patrol (GSP) will respond to the scene and, in most cases, generate a comprehensive report, accessible to you a few days post-accident.

In rare instances, such as extreme weather conditions or diverted law enforcement resources, there might be a delay in receiving the report. Never agree to forgo reporting the incident under any circumstances.

It is crucial to ensure that a Georgia Motor Vehicle Crash Report is compiled at the scene, even if it requires waiting for the police to arrive.

This report contains vital information that you may need in the future, especially in cases involving commercial vehicles. It includes essential details such as the commercial carrier's name, the number of axles, and the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).

Having a police report can significantly benefit the personal injury claims process. In its absence, the insurance company may attempt to downplay the accident's seriousness using the absence of a police report as a defense.

Delaying Medical Attention While individuals with evident or severe injuries, such as bone fractures or spinal cord damage, usually seek immediate medical care, those with mild to moderate injuries might postpone treatment, opting to wait and see how they feel later.

Waiting, even for a day, can considerably diminish the value of a personal injury claim in a Georgia truck accident.

If you sustain an injury in a collision, seek medical care as soon as possible. If your treating physician recommends follow-up appointments with your primary care provider or a specialist, it's imperative to adhere to those recommendations.

Failure to obtain medical care can be used against you by the opposing party when you pursue a personal injury claim.

Excessive Sharing on Social Media About the Accident While many individuals use social media to connect with friends and family, it's essential to exercise caution when discussing the accident.

Comments made on platforms like Facebook can be taken out of context and used against you. For instance, a casual comment like "I'm fine" may undermine the severity of your actual injuries when you've claimed to experience severe headaches and mobility issues.

Judicial rulings emphasize that there's no expectation of privacy on social media. Even accounts set to private can be accessed through friends' accounts.

Given the potential for significant financial stakes, trucking companies and their legal representatives will seize every opportunity to minimize the value of your claim. It's advisable to maintain a low profile on social media until the case reaches resolution.

Providing a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company Following an accident, you will be required to furnish information to the trucking company's insurance provider.

Insurance adjusters might request a recorded statement to expedite the claim process. However, personal injury lawyers consistently advise against providing a recorded statement.

Adjusters often use this information to diminish the value of a claim, either by coaxing admissions that injuries are less severe or by implying partial fault.

Accepting a Low Settlement Offer Trucking companies may swiftly recognize the seriousness of injuries, and during the initial stages of a claim, adjusters may endeavor to secure a settlement for as little as possible.

It's imperative not to make the critical error of accepting an offer far below the actual worth of your claim.

Failing to Consult an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney Arguably the most significant oversight you can make after an accident is to not at least seek advice from a qualified and seasoned Georgia truck accident attorney.

Whether you're dealing with an injury or a fatality resulting from a collision with an 18-wheeler or commercial vehicle, a Georgia truck accident lawyer from The Firm can guide you through the claims process, preventing missteps that could devalue your claim. Under our contingency fee arrangement, there are no fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I do immediately after a truck accident? Call 911 or ensure someone else does to report the accident. Wait for the police to arrive and file a report, even if it takes time.

Why is it important to obtain a police report after a truck accident? A police report provides crucial information for potential legal claims and helps establish the seriousness of the accident.

Is it necessary to seek medical attention after a truck accident, even for minor injuries? Yes, seeking prompt medical care is essential, as delaying treatment can negatively impact the value of your injury claim.

How can waiting to seek medical treatment affect my personal injury claim? Delaying medical care may allow the opposing party to argue that your injuries were not as serious as claimed.

Why should I be cautious about sharing details of the accident on social media? Comments on social media can be used against you, potentially undermining the severity of your injuries.

Is there an expectation of privacy on social media when it comes to legal cases? No, courts have ruled that there is no expectation of privacy on social media, even with private accounts.

Should I provide a recorded statement to the trucking company's insurance adjuster? No, personal injury lawyers typically advise against providing recorded statements, as they can be used to reduce the value of your claim.

What happens if I accept a low settlement offer from the trucking company's insurance? Accepting a low settlement offer may result in receiving less compensation than your claim is worth.

Why is it crucial to consult with an experienced truck accident attorney? An experienced attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process, avoid costly mistakes, and maximize the value of your claim.

What does "contingency fee basis" mean when hiring a lawyer for a truck accident case? It means the attorney's fees are contingent on successfully recovering compensation for you. If they don't win your case, you won't pay attorney fees.

What types of compensation can I seek in a truck accident claim? You can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the accident.

Is it advisable to contact a lawyer immediately after a truck accident, or should I wait? It's generally a good idea to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights and gather evidence while it's fresh.

How can I reach The Graham Firm for a free phone consultation about my truck accident case? You can call The Graham Firm at (404) 526-9955 to schedule your complimentary phone consultation.

Are truck accident lawyers available 24/7 for assistance? Yes, The Graham Firm provides round-the-clock availability to address your concerns and discuss your case.

Can family members of a truck accident victim file wrongful death claims? Yes, surviving loved ones can file wrongful death claims to seek compensation for their loss.

What information should I provide to my attorney during the initial consultation? You should provide details of the accident, any injuries sustained, and any available evidence, such as the police report.

What is the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), and why is it important in a truck accident report? The GVWR is crucial for identifying the weight capacity of the truck, which can be relevant in assessing the severity of the accident.

How long does it typically take to resolve a truck accident claim? The duration of a claim can vary, but it may take several months to a few years to reach a resolution, depending on the complexity of the case.

Do I have to pay upfront fees to hire a truck accident attorney from The Graham Firm? No, The Graham Firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if they recover compensation for you.

What steps should I take to ensure I don't make critical mistakes in handling a truck accident case? Consult with an experienced attorney, follow their guidance, and avoid discussing the accident on social media until your case is resolved.