What to Do After a Truck Accident: A Step-by-Step Legal Guide

Truck accidents tend to be more complicated than other vehicular accidents. Determining liability can be challenging and the injuries that victims suffer are usually severe. 

Florida has its fair share of truck accidents. The National Safety Council recently reported that Florida was in the top three of the states with large trucks involved in fatal crashes. Indeed, the heavy weight and large size of a truck means that a collision with a much smaller car can lead to serious and catastrophic repercussions.

In Florida, victims of commercial truck accidents have the right to compensation. For assistance determining how to file a truck accident claim and get the most from it, a Tampa automobile accident attorney at Fulgencio Law can help. 

Steps to Take After a Florida Truck Accident

When injuries are present after a truck accident it is critical not to wait before calling 9-1-1 to get first responders to the scene. When your accident happened in the roadway this can be an added danger for everyone involved in the accident. So, if possible, relocate your vehicle off of the road to a safer location.

Sometimes the devastation at a truck accident scene is so extensive that gathering evidence is not easy or impossible. On the other hand, if you can exchange contact information, and insurance information, ask witnesses for their information, and take photos, then do so. All of these things can support your injury claim.

When the police arrive they may write a report. This report can be used in your claim to serve as an official record and provide additional details about the accident from the officer’s perspective.

Next, to start the claims process, you will need to notify your insurance provider. It can be helpful at this point to also be in contact with a personal injury attorney to help you navigate the claims process and manage communications with the insurance company. 

It is essential not to wait to get the claims process started. Florida’s statute of limitations for vehicular accidents is only two years from when an accident happens. Since there is a lot to do during the claims process and there can be unexpected hurdles or delays, the sooner the claims process is begun the better to account for potential issues that can arise.

Due to Florida’s comparative negligence rules, if you are liable for causing the truck accident your ability to recover compensation can be jeopardized. The comparative negligence fault system that is used says that individuals who are more than 50% responsible for the accident, may not recover compensation. If you are 50% or less to blame for the accident, then you will be able to receive compensation.

Call Fulgencio Law Today

In a truck accident, several parties may be liable for paying a victim for their damages. Damages that can result from a truck accident and that are compensable in a claim include medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, emotional distress, pain and suffering, loss of companionship, and more.

If you would like help with your Florida truck accident claim, please call Fulgencio Law today at (813) 463-0123 to schedule a free consultation with an attorney.