Have you been in a truck accident? Not sure what to do? The first thing you should do of course is call 911. Truck accidents are notoriously violent and can cause severe injuries. Once emergency services have arrived always be sure to accept medical treatment. There’s a good chance you’re in shock and unable to feel injury symptoms that take time to develop. Consulting with an experienced trucking lawyer in Fayetteville, Arkansas is a good follow up after you’ve received the proper medical attention. Keep in mind, trucking cases are not the same as a car wreck case. You need someone experienced in trucking litigation.
Collect Evidence
If you’re physically and mentally able, there are some types of evidence you can collect that can serve your case later. Using your phone and/or paper collect the following:
Truck Driver’s Information
- Truck driver’s name
- Contact information
- Driver’s license number
- Company name
- License Plate number
- Insurance information
- What was being hauled
Witnesses
If you can find anyone who witnessed the accident ask them to stay at the scene until the police arrive. Eye witness statements can be powerful evidence.
Photos
Chances are your phone has a decent camera. Take pictures of the damage on both your vehicle and the truck. Take photos of any visible injuries you’ve sustained. Additional relevant evidence like road conditions and traffic signals should be recorded.
What if You’re Partially at Fault?
Even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you still might be entitled to compensation. Arkansas uses a comparative negligence rule, which means that victims are entitled to compensation. The amount of compensation is reduced by the percentage of fault determined by the court.
Who Will be Held Liable for Your Truck Accident?
Many different parties can be held responsible for paying out compensation in truck accident cases.
- Manufacturer of the truck or parts
- Truck owner
- Party that’s responsible for the truck maintenance
- Owner of the freight
- Trucking company
What Should I tell My Insurance Company?
You will need to talk to your insurance company about the details of the truck accident. However, you should first consult with an experienced truck accident attorney. The attorney will advise you on what is necessary for you to disclose to the company. Whatever you say to your insurance company will likely be revealed during any court proceedings. If you’re not careful the information you provide could potentially damage your case and the amount of compensation you are eligible to receive.
What Type of Compensation Can I Get?
Truck accident victims can be awarded many different types of compensation. Your personal injury attorney will try his or her best to get compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Help Me?
If you have been injured in a truck accident that was not your fault and suffered an injury, there’s a good chance you have a valid claim. Daniels Law Firm has helped hundreds of truck accident victims in Arkansas get the fair compensation they deserve. There’s no need to suffer more than you already are. Call today for a free consultation. We can tell you in a matter of minutes if your case has potential.