Truck accidents are unfortunate events that often alter the course of life for many victims. Besides causing life-changing injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, amputations, and spinal injuries, 18-wheeler accidents also result in fatalities. For these reasons, the aftermath of a crash can be overwhelming for victims and their loved ones.
If you have been in a similar crash anywhere in Texas, you may be eligible to pursue legal action for monetary compensation. Besides covering your medical expenses and related losses, a maximum recovery for damages suffered can help secure your future and ensure financial stability, especially when the injuries sustained are severe.
However, some mistakes following a crash can hurt your chances of making a successful case. Our team of truck accident lawyers in Santa Fe at Lone Star Injury Attorneys prepared this guide to help you after your accident.
Why Avoiding Mistakes After a Santa Fe Truck Accident Matters
Our team assists injured parties in seeking damages after truck accidents. We understand how to handle an accident case and what mistakes people commonly make.
Failing to Report the Crash to the Local Police
Texas laws require that the local police department be notified of any severe auto wreck, including those involving commercial vehicles and big trucks. But in some cases, some victims resort to leaving the accident too soon after being compelled not to call 911, contrary to the requirements of the Texas Code.
Others flee the scene due to fear, anxiety, and confusion. However, this should not be the case. Reporting a crash to the police is crucial for everyone’s safety and helps your case. The police report is vital in establishing liability, thus helping your attorney build a strong case.
Failing to Collect Information
Because of the shock and confusion that follow an auto wreck, many victims often forget to collect crucial information from the scene that could be vital in their personal injury case. If you can, and when it is safe, ensure you collect as much information about the accident as possible.
This may include photos and videos of the vehicles involved and injuries suffered, contact information of the parties involved, statements of eyewitnesses, and other crucial details such as the road and weather conditions at the time of the accident.
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Admitting Fault
After a crash, it is entirely normal to engage the other parties involved. But even as you collect information and gather evidence from the scene, you should be mindful of what you say and how you say it.
Any conversations with the other parties should be focused on gathering as much information about the accident. But while you do so, you should only stick to the facts. Refrain from talking too much or saying things you shouldn’t, especially in liability matters.
Even if you think you were partly at fault, do not admit it. Anything you say to the other parties or the police can be used against you. Do not give any statements without your attorney.
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Failing to Seek Medical Care
Because many commercial accidents are larger and heavier than most vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, and passengers of other cars are far more likely to suffer severe injuries in the case of a crash. Unfortunately, some injuries are not immediately apparent due to the confusion and adrenaline that follows an auto wreck.
For this reason, you need immediate medical evaluation to unmask any underlying injuries. Some of them, such as internal bleeding and organ damage, may be life-threatening. Therefore, seeing a doctor immediately after a crash is essential, even if you don’t believe you were hurt.
Failing to Contact Your Insurance Company
If the other party admits fault, you may not find it necessary to notify your insurance company. However, you must inform your insurer about the crash immediately.
Failing to notify your insurance companyin a timely manner may hurt your chances of recovering compensation even when the fault is apparent.
But while doing so, be careful not to talk too much or sign any documents without counsel from a seasoned Santa Fe truck accident lawyer.
Not Retaining a Truck Accident Attorney
Commercial vehicle accidents are not your typical auto wrecks. Because they are likely to result in life-changing injuries or fatalities, settlement verdicts are often record-breaking.
But with millions of dollars at stake, no insurance company will leave anything to chance. They will put up a fight to deny or lower your settlement. Additionally, the trucking industry is regulated at both the federal and state levels.
For these reasons, we emphasize the need to retain a qualified and aggressive truck accident attorney who can tenaciously fight for your rights and help with the claim process.
Still trying to Figure Out What to Do After a Santa Fe Truck Accident? Call Our Firm Today
If you have been in a big truck accident in Santa Fe, you will likely need clarification about the next steps. Our seasoned truck accident attorneys are available to guide you through the aftermath and help with your case.
There are many mistakes to avoid in a Santa Fe truck accident, and our team will help you do that. Contact us today to learn more.
Call or text (832) 346-9585 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
