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What To Do If You’re In A Truck Accident in Denver
Truck accidents are often more catastrophic than car accidents. There is not only a greater likelihood of damage to your vehicle, but sustaining physical injuries is more common as well. The legal claims process is also more involved since the driver’s company will most likely be involved. Serious injury may occur at the scene of the crash, but there are still ways to improve the process of your claim. Discover the main things to avoid after a truck accident so your claim will be successful.
About trucking accidents
Although trucks provide vital transport of goods for our economy, data shows that truck safety on highways remains an ongoing risk. Injuries from truck accidents are common, accounting for 5% of overall motor vehicle accidents. Lethal injuries and death occur over 70% of the time in accidents involving tractor trailers – a percentage that claimed nearly 5,000 lives in 2017. Unfortunately, smaller cars don’t stand a chance against the massive rigs on highways. Typical rigs weigh over 40 tons, compared to a typical vehicle weighing four thousand pounds. This size difference is the main factor that causes devastating crashes. You’re more likely to sustain fatal injuries in a trucking accident than with another motor vehicle of a similar size.
Because of the catastrophic likelihood of an accident with a truck, you’ll need extra help when filing a truck accident claim. Be sure to avoid these common mistakes after a truck accident.
Top things to avoid after a truck accident
Don’t dismiss an initial assessment of your injuries
After a truck accident, it’s essential to assess your injuries. Walking away from a crash without proper assessment can cause more damage later on, which further complicates the legal case. Be sure to take your own safety into account first, even if that means waiting for the police and an ambulance to arrive before taking action.
Don’t leave the scene of the accident without evidence
If your injuries aren’t too severe, and it’s safe to leave your vehicle or area, gather any evidence you can regarding the accident. This could include a picture of the truck’s license plate, name and contact info for the driver and trucking company, and insurance info from the other driver.
Don’t admit fault or liability
Even if you are partially responsible, don’t admit any fault until you’ve talked to a truck accident lawyer. During the police report, simply state the facts of the accident to the best of your ability. You don’t need to lie or construe evidence, but don’t damage your credibility with statements made regarding who was liable for the accident.
Don’t talk to your insurance company first
Unfortunately, insurance adjusters and agents don’t always have your best interests in mind. The main goal of insurance companies is to pay out as little as possible in order to keep overall rates down, so avoid updating your insurance claims adjuster about your status. Your Denver truck accident lawyer is on your side, however, and will ensure that you receive the best benefits during your case. This ensures your maximum settlement amount is achieved.