Being in an automobile accident is one of the most terrifying experiences a person can have. From the moment of the initial collision, thoughts and emotions flood the mind of the victim. “What is happening?” “Will I be ok?” Am I going to die”? What is usually over in only a few moments can seem like a lifetime.
But after all the dust settles and everyone is (hopefully) ok, the next question becomes “What happens next?” In many cases, filing a lawsuit for a truck accident should be the answer. Unfortunately, a number of victims are unaware of their rights or what their next step should be.
Don’t let a lack of understanding prevent you from seeking what you are rightfully owed as a result of negligent driving. Here are 5 tips to help you establish the fault of the other driver in circumstances such as these:
1. Hire a Lawyer Who Specializes in Truck Accidents
While this isn’t the first thing that you need to do, we listed it as number one because it is the most important. You must have a competent, experienced attorney by your side when it comes time for filing a lawsuit for a truck accident.
Not only can they help in proving liability, but they also know which entities can be held responsible, including:
- Truck driver
- Truck or parts manufacturer
- Trucking company or carrier
- Cargo loader
- Shipping company
- Maintenance and repair crews
2. Take Pictures/Video of the Incident
If you are physically able to document the accident with your cell phone or another mobile device, this can make or break your case.
Take photos of everything that could have been a factor in the collision, including where the impact was on your vehicle, the other vehicle, the positioning of road/stop signs, traffic lights, road conditions, and anything else that may be relevant.
3. Call the Police
Filing a lawsuit for a truck accident is much easier when you have a comprehensive police report on file. It can also help establish exactly what happened and who is at fault by an authoritative source, as law enforcement is required to investigate what happened at the scene.
This can also help establish what the root cause may have been, such as:
- Driver fatigue
- Reckless driving
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence
- Speeding
- Or many others
4. Gather Witness Contact Info
This will be a huge benefit to the attorney that is filing a lawsuit for a truck accident for you. By being able to go back and speak with people who witnessed the accident, you will have firsthand accounts to share in court.
5. Document Everything that Happened Immediately and Keep a Continual Log
This will provide a record of your physical and mental state following the accident, along with any after-effects that develop in the days and weeks following. This can play a huge role in what you are ultimately awarded.
Filing a Lawsuit for a Truck Accident Can be Complicated
That’s why you need a no-nonsense attorney with both the experience and know-how to handle your case properly from the start. You need to be sure that from the initial consultation all the way up to the time you come to an agreement with the other party, you are represented by a competent, qualified lawyer.