A collision with a commercial truck is a traumatic and potentially life-altering experience. The steps you take in the moments and days after the accident can significantly affect your health, your finances, and your ability to pursue a legal claim. If you’re involved in a truck accident in Florida, here’s what you need to do to protect yourself.
1. Prioritize Your Safety and Health
- Move to safety if you’re in danger and it’s safe to do so.
- Check for injuries to yourself and others.
- Call 911 immediately to report the crash and request emergency services.
2. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you feel okay, some injuries take hours or days to show symptoms. Getting medical care right away creates a record linking your injuries to the accident—critical for your claim.
3. Report the Accident to Law Enforcement
Florida law requires that all truck accidents involving injury or significant property damage be reported. A police report provides official documentation of what happened and may contain information that supports your case.
4. Document the Scene
If you’re able, gather the following:
- Photos and videos of vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, and injuries
- Contact info for witnesses and other drivers
- Truck driver’s name, license, insurance, and employer information
- Details about the truck, including license plate and USDOT number
5. Do Not Admit Fault
Be polite and cooperative, but avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be used against you later. Leave fault determination to investigators and attorneys.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident promptly, but avoid giving a recorded statement until you speak with an attorney. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, especially in serious cases.
7. Preserve Evidence
Save all receipts, medical records, prescriptions, and communication related to the accident. Your attorney may also request black box data, driver logs, and maintenance records from the trucking company.
8. Contact a Florida Truck Accident Lawyer
Truck accidents involve complex laws, federal regulations, and multiple parties. An experienced attorney will:
- Investigate the crash thoroughly
- Preserve vital evidence
- Handle all negotiations and communications
- Maximize your compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering
Let Us Help You Navigate the Aftermath
At Hairston & Crooks Legal Group, we fight for truck accident victims across Florida. We know how to take on large trucking companies and their insurers.
📞 Call 305-HC-MONEY (305-426-6639) or visit hclegalgroup.com to schedule your free consultation.
After a truck accident, every step matters. Let us help you take the right ones.
