All across Florida, car accidents are on the rise and as one of the intermediaries on a number of different delivery routes for commercial vehicles, a number of these accidents are involving large scale commercial delivery trucks. Accidents involving commercial trucks can be devastating, leading to severe injuries and property damage. The sheer size of these trucks can do a ton of damage, especially when in a collision with a smaller passenger car. If you’ve been unfortunate enough to experience such an accident, it’s crucial to know what steps to take to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. In this article, we’ll explore five important things you should know when you get injured in an accident involving a commercial truck.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
According to us, health should always be your top priority after an accident. Even if your injuries seem minor at first, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. According to Mr. Joey Rafaelli, one of the top Car Accident Lawyer Miami, some injuries such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not manifest symptoms immediately but can worsen if left untreated. Additionally, having a medical record of your injuries will be vital for your personal injury claim.
Document the Accident Scene
Preserving evidence is crucial for building a strong case. If you can do so safely, take photos and videos of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, your injuries, and any road conditions that may have contributed to the accident. Collect contact information from witnesses, and make sure to obtain the truck driver’s information, including their insurance details and the company they work for. According to Mr.Joey Rafaeli, considered one of the best Truck Accident Lawyer Miami has in practice, it’s vital that you not only get the drivers personal info but his company’s information as well. As they will likely be the main party being held liable for the incident, and the driver is a secondary figure in the majority of civil cases.
Contact Law Enforcement
In many cases, law enforcement officers will respond to the scene of the accident. One of the most important things for you to do is to report the accident to the police, and ask for a copy of the accident report. This official documentation will play a significant role in your insurance claim and any legal action you might pursue. Police reports are vital, as they represent a third party as well as an authority figure who is considered knowledgeable in such a case.
Do Not Admit Fault
Avoid making any statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Even if you think you may have contributed to the accident in some way, the full circumstances are often more complex than they initially appear. Leave the determination of fault to insurance companies and, if necessary, the legal system. Considered the best personal injury lawyer in Miami, Mr. Rafaeli will often advise clients to stay silent and avoid any conversation that is too in-depth.
Consult an Attorney
After seeking medical attention and ensuring your immediate safety, it’s wise to consult with a personal injury attorney experienced in handling accidents involving commercial trucks – like Mr. Rafaeli and his team. These cases can be particularly complex, involving multiple parties, such as trucking companies and their insurers. An attorney will guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, and work to secure the compensation you deserve for medical bills, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages.
When there is a large commercial truck involved, an accident can go from bad to terribly worse. And it’s vital you get the compensation you deserve. For more information or to schedule a legal consultation, be sure to contact Mr. Joey Rafaeli today.