One of the first things you should do when a truck hits you on the highway is consult a truck accident attorney, who will explain your next steps. They can also investigate the collision, document its causes and contributing factors, and determine what to do and who to pursue for monetary recovery.
Truck accident cases like yours can become complicated. In addition, an accident like yours can leave you facing severe injuries and lifelong consequences. However, while you focus on recovery, your lawyer can take the necessary steps to build a compelling case for financial compensation.
Document the Cause of Your Truck Accident to Identify the At-Fault Party
Before pursuing compensation after a truck accident, you must prove who and what caused the accident. The police report regarding the crash can help. It is an invaluable piece of evidence and a source of information. It will tell your legal team:
- The date, time, and location of the collision
- The road and weather conditions
- The names and contact details of accident witnesses
- Notes and diagrams from first responders at the scene
- Points of impact and other damage to your car
The report might also contain police-generated photos and videos. So, if a lawyer represents you, they will obtain your police report for you and build a solid case file supporting your right to compensation.
Potentially Liable Parties in Your Highway Truck Accident Case
Finding the underlying cause of your truck accident means understanding whose negligence led to it. Truck accident cases could involve potentially liable parties that might include the following:
- The trucker, if they are an owner/operator
- The trucking company
- The truck manufacturer
- A truck parts manufacturer
- The cargo loading company
- The truck’s repair and maintenance facility
Even a government or municipality could be liable for compensation if the condition of the highway or its signage contributed to why the crash occurred. Your lawyer will determine the cause and seek damages from one or more negligent parties.
Contact Us Today And Take The First Step Towards Justice In Your Case! Call (410)777-8960
Recover Damages by Filing a Truck Accident Insurance Claim
An insurance settlement is the most likely resolution to your claim. Your lawyer will create and send a demand letter that outlines your recoverable damages. It will also contain evidence that proves the at-fault party’s negligence.
For example, you might have sustained severe—even life-threatening—injuries because the crash. Then, your attorney will collect your medical records and bills that describe your injuries and how much you must spend to treat them. Other examples of evidence you might obtain include the following:
- Job and salary records
- Accident scene photos
- Photos and video footage
- Accident reconstruction
- BAC test results, if applicable
Additional evidence—including the trucker’s logbook, hours-of-service records, and driving and accident history—could be challenging to secure on your own. However, your lawyer knows how to gather those records, then compile, organize, and submit your evidence to the insurer, allowing you to focus on healing.
Recover Damages by Filing a Truck Accident Lawsuit
Let’s say the insurance company refuses to settle your claim. Then, your truck accident attorney will file a lawsuit on your behalf. They must do so within the time allotted by your state’s statute of limitations. While most cases will not require you to go to court for compensation, if yours does require a trial, your lawyer will:
- Make all appropriate filings with the court.
- Prepare your evidence and exhibits for trial.
- Use discovery to understand the defendant’s case.
- Depose all potential truck accident witnesses.
Your lawyer will present your case to a judge or jury, proving the negligence that led to your accident.
Do Not Wait to Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer After a Highway Collision
You have a limited time to file your lawsuit after a truck accident. The outcome of the accident, the age of the injured parties in your car, and specific actions taken by the at-fault party all play a role in determining the appropriate filing deadline.
If the deadline expires, the courts will not allow you to file your lawsuit or will dismiss your lawsuit. Either outcome means you cannot compel the at-fault driver to compensate you. However, a truck accident lawyer in your area can help you avoid this disastrous outcome.
Economic and Non-Economic Damages After a Truck Accident on the Highway
A truck accident can result in tangible (economic) and intangible (noneconomic) damages. You can recover compensation for the following losses:
- Property damage
- Diminished property value or total loss
- Past and future lost income
- Past and future medical bills
- Treatment-related travel expenses
- Disability or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Mental anguish and emotional trauma
- Physical pain and suffering
Your attorney will document the monetary value of your case, including calculating the value of your intangible damages.
Wrongful Death Damages After a Fatal Truck Accident on the Highway
Your family could recover damages if a loved one suffered fatal injuries. Wrongful death compensation includes the decedent’s funeral and burial costs. In addition, it can include your family’s loss of your family member’s income and domestic support.
You can also recover damages for your loss of consortium, companionship, guidance, support, and society. A wrongful death lawyer from our team will explain who can file a case and receive any resulting monetary award.
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Call Today for a Free Review of Your Truck Accident Case
If you or a loved one sustained injuries in a highway truck crash, it helps to know what happens next. A truck accident lawyer with Adam M. Smallow can clarify what to do and how to hold the at-fault party accountable for their actions. Our law firm will explain what happens if a truck hits you on the highway, including your options for financial recovery.
Our law firm will start pursuing truck accident compensation on your behalf. Contact our consultation team at MD Accident Law today to get started.
Call or text (410)777-8960 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form