Introduction:
Truck accidents can result in serious injuries and significant damages. It’s important to take the right steps after an accident to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Unfortunately, many people make mistakes when they try to handle their truck accident case without a lawyer. In this post, we’ll discuss the how to handle the common mistakes while handling truck accident cases
1. Not Seeking Medical Attention:
After a truck accident, it’s important to seek medical attention, even if you don’t feel injured. Some injuries, such as whiplash or back injuries, may not show up right away. Not seeking medical attention can hurt your case if you later develop an injury. In both Florida and Georgia, there is a statute of limitations for filing a truck accident claim, which is four years from the date of the accident in Florida and two years in Georgia.
Case Example:
In Georgia, a truck driver rear-ended a car, causing the driver to suffer from neck pain and headaches. The driver didn’t seek medical attention until two weeks after the accident, and the insurance company argued that the injuries weren’t related to the accident. As a result, the driver received a lower settlement than they would have if they had sought medical attention immediately.
2. Failing to Collect Evidence:
Evidence is crucial in a truck accident case. If you don’t collect evidence, it may be difficult to prove the other driver’s negligence. Take pictures of the accident scene, get the contact information of witnesses, and gather any other evidence you can. In Florida, comparative negligence laws may reduce your compensation if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident.
Case Example:
In Florida, a truck driver made an illegal U-turn and collided with another vehicle. The driver of the other vehicle was found to be partially at fault for not wearing a seatbelt, and their compensation was reduced accordingly.
3.Accepting the Insurance Company’s First Settlement Offer:
Insurance companies are not on your side. They will try to settle your case for as little as possible. If you accept their first settlement offer, you may be leaving money on the table. A lawyer can help you negotiate a fair settlement. In Georgia, if you are found to be more than 50% at fault for the accident, you may not be eligible to receive compensation.
Case Example:
In Georgia, a truck driver ran a red light and collided with a car. The insurance company offered the driver of the car a settlement of $20,000, but their attorney negotiated a settlement of $50,000, which covered their medical bills and lost wages.
4. Not Understanding the Trucking Industry Regulations
Trucking companies are subject to numerous federal and state regulations. If you don’t understand these regulations, you may miss important details that could help your case. An attorney who is experienced in handling truck accident cases can help you navigate these regulations.
Case Example
In Florida, a truck driver exceeded the hours of service regulations and fell asleep at the wheel, causing an accident. The driver’s logbook showed that they had been driving for more hours than allowed by law, which helped the injured party receive a larger settlement.
Conclusion:
Truck accidents can be complex and challenging to navigate. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Florida or Georgia, it’s important to hire an attorney to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Avoid these common mistakes and let a skilled lawyer handle your case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.