Truck accidents are serious business: did you know that a commercial truck can outweigh a regular car by 20:1? Whether we like it or not, trucks have tremendous power on the road, and this directly translates to heavier injuries for victims when accidents occur. If you or a loved one have been involved in a truck accident, the first thing you should do after seeking medical attention is to engage legal representation. You could be entitled to legal compensation but without an experienced attorney to fight for you, the amount you end up getting may be less than what you are due, or you may even end up empty-handed.
Below, we lay out the legal procedures involved in seeking compensation after a truck accident and explain why they are reasons you need to hire a truck accident lawyer.
Although this may seem pretty straightforward, the reality is that proving fault is often harder than it seems. As this will determine which party is responsible for paying damages, disputes will almost certainly arise even if you can provide substantial evidence. The other party can do this by disputing whether the accident caused your injuries in the first place.
To avoid and address any such scenarios, you need an experienced truck accident attorney who can engage the aid of expert witnesses, witness accounts and personal statements as well as medical records to prove the origin of your injury and/or symptoms of pre-existing conditions.
Although most truck accidents only involve two vehicles, the truth is that there are more than two parties involved in the accident. This is because trucks are commercial vehicles and other parties can include:
- The truck driver’s employer: Employers have a duty to ensure that their drivers are qualified. This can include but is not limited to: holding the appropriate license, having undergone the proper training and being in good health.
- The owner of the truck: It is the responsibility of truck owners – whether that is the employer or a third-party company – to ensure that vehicles are well-maintained and safe to be on the road.
Many people may be under the mistaken impression that only those who were present at the scene of an accident can gather evidence. The truth is, lawyers are resourceful and experienced professionals who can assist in obtaining access to third-party information such as the below:
- Medical Records: Your medical record can help to explain certain symptoms you experience due to pre-existing conditions, while the other driver’s record may be useful if their health condition contributed to the accident.
- Cell Phone Records: Oftentimes, drivers will not readily admit that they have been on their phones while driving even if they have. A cell phone record can help to prove this.
- Expert Witnesses: Experts can help in the reconstruction of an accident and pass a professional judgment on whether it is physically possible that the injuries you sustained are caused by the accident.
If you have been convinced of the several reasons you need to engage a truck accident lawyer after an accident, you have come to the right place at Corradino and Papa, LLC. When you engage one of our experienced and competent lawyers to advocate for your interests, you are significantly increasing your chances of receiving due compensation. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.
Disclaimer: Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.