You may feel scared in the initial moments after an 18-wheeler accident — and for good reason. At this point, it may be best to take a deep breath and focus on what you need to do to keep yourself and others involved in the crash safe. In the days after your collision, you may consult with an Okemos 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer who may help you pursue damages from any at-fault parties.
White Law PLLC is a top choice for those in need of a trucking crash lawyer. Contact us to schedule a consultation with our attorney. In the meantime, we have provided 10 steps below to help you get through a truck accident without putting yourself or anyone else in danger.
1. Call 911
When you call 911, medical personnel and police officers will come to the crash scene. Medical professionals may evaluate you and treat any injuries. Police officers may discuss your collision with you and others involved and put together an accident report.
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2. Get Information from Those Involved in Your Truck Crash
Ask the trucker involved in your crash for their contact, driver’s license, and insurance information. If anyone saw your crash, get their contact information. You may be able to use all of this information as part of a claim for damages.
3. Gather Evidence at the Accident Scene
Use your smartphone to take photos and videos at the accident scene. You can capture photos and videos of damage to your car and your injuries. These may help you show a judge or jury why you deserve compensation from any at-fault parties.
We understand that you may be going through a difficult situation and we are ready to help however we can.
4. Do Not Take Responsibility for Your Crash
If someone asks you if you were in any way responsible for your collision, do not take the blame. A truck driver or another at-fault party may push you to accept responsibility. Doing so may compromise your ability to pursue damages.
You will always work directly with your attorney throughout your case.
5. Continue to Receive Medical Care
Go to a hospital or emergency room if medical personnel encourage you to do so. There is no need to “tough it out” after your accident. You may be worried about the costs to treat your injuries, but these may be covered by an at-fault party or through your insurance policy.
6. Notify Your Auto Insurance Company
Tell your insurance provider about your crash, even if you are not at fault. To legally drive a car in Michigan, you must buy no-fault insurance. This protection may provide you with enough compensation to cover your losses.
7. Do Not Speak to an At-Fault Party or Their Insurer About Your Accident
If the party responsible for your crash or their insurer reaches out to you after your accident, do not say anything to them about your collision. Remember, anything you say may be used against you. Speaking about your accident may hurt your chances of getting compensation.
8. Do Not Publish Content on Social Media
If you want to keep family members and friends up to date about your accident, it may be in your best interests to contact them through phone, text, or email. By publishing photos, videos, or other content about your accident and injury online, the at-fault party may be able to view them. On top of that, this party may be able to use your social media content to build a case against you.
9. Get in Touch with an Attorney
Connect with a Michigan personal injury lawyer who has experience with 18-wheeler crash cases. They may be able to help you get compensation from any at-fault parties. If an attorney believes it may be beneficial to file an injury lawsuit, they may help you with your case.
10. File a Personal Injury Lawsuit
Do not wait too long after your 18-wheeler crash to file an injury lawsuit. There is a three-year statute of limitations for injury claims, according to Michigan Compiled Laws §600.5805. If you decide not to submit your claim within this time frame, you may lose the opportunity to pursue damages.
White Law PLLC puts our client’s needs front and center. Our Michigan truck accident lawyer may help navigate the process of seeking compensation following an 18-wheeler crash. For more information, reach out to us.
Tips to Help You Get Compensation After an 18-Wheeler Accident
You may have a strong case against the trucker or someone else at fault for your 18-wheeler crash. Regardless, you are responsible for the burden of proof. Here are tips to help you show someone caused your trucking collision and deserves to be held accountable for it:
- Use all of the evidence at your disposal. Accident scene photos and videos, medical records, and other forms of proof may help you compel a judge or jury to rule in your favor.
- Get witness statements. If someone saw your collision happen, they may be able to provide a statement to further illustrate you were in no way responsible for your crash.
- Be open to a settlement. The defendant in your case may offer a fair settlement, and you may be able to accept it, receive compensation, and close your case without having to go to trial.
- Work with an attorney. Partner with a lawyer who knows the ins and outs of personal injury laws, and they may help you craft an argument that resonates with a judge or jury.
When you have a proven attorney on your side, you may be in a strong position. Your lawyer may answer frequently asked questions and any others you have about 18-wheeler crash claims. They may also work in lockstep with you to develop an argument to show a judge or jury that you deserve 100% of the compensation you are requesting.
Get Started with an 18-Wheeler Accident Claim
The team at White Law PLLC takes the guesswork out of 18-wheeler trucking crash claims. We can take a look at your case and help you take the right steps to seek damages after your collision. To request a consultation, contact us today.
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