Getting into any kind of vehicle accident can be traumatic. If it is a truck accident, the physical and emotional damages can be even greater. Because commercial trucks are so large and heavy, they can cause life-threatening injuries in accidents.
If you were involved in a truck accident, it’s important to stay calm and not do anything rash. Here are five things you should avoid doing after a truck accident:
Give a Statement in the Heat of the Moment
It’s never a good idea to provide a recorded statement of the truck accident. If you do this, you could hurt your chances of recovering compensation for your injuries. You might not give an accurate statement because you haven’t had enough time to gather your thoughts.
Forget to Collect Evidence Like Witness Information
Without sufficient evidence, it’s difficult to have a strong case. That’s why you should take several photos of the accident scene and get the contact information of witnesses.
Admit Fault
Trucks accidents can happen in mere seconds. Once an accident occurs, you may not be able to think clearly. This may cause you to make rash decisions, like admitting fault to the accident. However, you should never state that the accident is your fault. Take time to assess the facts of the accident before you admit to anything.
Speak to the Other Side’s Lawyer
It also is not advisable to speak to the truck company or the truck company’s attorney after the accident. If you speak to the other side’s lawyer, you may accidentally say something that could damage your chances of getting fair compensation. That is why it is important to have a qualified truck accident lawyer on your side. He or she can can protect your best interests and prevent you from saying something that could hurt your case.
Accept a Low Settlement Offer
If the truck company’s insurance company gives you a settlement offer early on, you may be tempted to accept it. After all, you have medical bills to pay and you want to get the legal process over with as quickly as possible. However, an insurance company’s first offer is often too low to cover all the damages you suffered from the truck accident. Resist the temptation to accept a low settlement offer and allow your lawyer to negotiate a better offer.
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