When negligence leads to an accident with a commercial vehicle, you might have a case for compensation against the at-fault party. Every case is unique, and there is always the possibility of losing out on your recovery due to a mistake on your part.
The stakes are high following a trucking accident, and attempting to pursue compensation without help is a mistake. When you rely on our legal team, we use our extensive experience to help you get the best possible outcome. Since 1995, we have fought for the injured, and we look forward to doing the same in your case. Reach out to our Boca Raton truck accident lawyer to learn how to avoid major mistakes after a truck accident.
Why Admitting Fault Could Harm Your Truck Accident Claim
When it comes to the aftermath of a commercial truck accident, avoiding mistakes can be the most important thing you can do. One of the major missteps in these situations is discussing the facts of the accident with the other driver or their insurance adjuster.
It should come as no surprise that admitting fault will dramatically impact your potential settlement. However, dealing with insurance adjusters can be tricky in general due to their common practice of taking things out of context. These adjusters might take an off-hand comment and suggest it was an admission from you that you were ultimately at fault.
The best way to avoid any complications is to not discuss the facts of your case with anyone but your legal counsel. In addition to talking with the truck driver or their insurance company, you will also benefit from avoiding the topic on social media.
The Risks of Handling a Truck Accident Case Without Legal Help
You have the right to hire legal counsel following a collision with a commercial vehicle. However, some people choose to resolve their cases on their own without hiring a lawyer. This is usually done to save money, but the risks associated with acting as your own lawyer greatly outweigh the financial benefits.
Filing your lawsuit after the deadline or settling your case for less than it is worth are significant risks of proceeding without legal representation. An attorney can ensure your rights are protected while working to maximize your financial recovery.
When the operator of a truck is at fault for the accident, their employer is usually quick to step in and mount a defense. Facing these large companies on your own can be daunting, but you are entitled to work with seasoned legal counsel to get the justice you deserve.
Why Rushing a Truck Accident Settlement Could Cost You
It is natural to want to secure financial compensation for your injuries and move on with your life as soon as possible. Unfortunately, one of the most common mistakes in commercial truck accidents is settling an insurance claim or lawsuit too soon.
By resolving a case quickly, you could recover less than the average truck accident injury settlement. As nice as it is to have the settlement wrapped up and the money in hand, a quick settlement can mean missing out on compensation related to your medical bills.
It can take time for a clear picture of your medical needs to form. In some cases, your severe injuries will take a long time to heal. Without knowing for certain where your maximum medical improvement ends, you could find yourself accepting a settlement only to learn months later that you will need additional medical treatment.
The Importance of Reporting Truck Accidents to Authorities
Florida law is clear on when you are required to notify the police regarding an accident. Given the extensive damage that typically comes with a commercial truck accident, you can expect these requirements to apply in each of these cases.
You must notify the police of a crash when it involves bodily injuries, death, or major property damage. However, any vehicle repairs can be costly, making it likely that a collision with a commercial truck will require a call to law enforcement.
Failing to report a crash in these situations is not just a bad idea; it is also a crime. In addition to facing criminal charges, you could also weaken your personal injury case if it looks like you attempted to flee from the accident scene.
Do Not Let the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Truck Accident Lawsuit Expire
Large trucking companies are either protected by insurance policies or have the resources to hire a legal team directly following a truck crash. Their attorneys will not hesitate to move to dismiss your case with prejudice if you wait too long to file a personal injury lawsuit.
In Boca Raton, Florida Statutes § 95.11 sets the time limit for filing personal injury claims in Florida. You generally have two years from the date of the accident to settle your claim or file a personal injury lawsuit. It can take time for our attorneys to investigate a truck accident due to the catastrophic damage these vehicles cause. The sooner you speak with a lawyer, the better your chances of success can be.
Violating the Florida statute of limitations for personal injury cases is one of the worst mistakes you can make following a truck accident. Unless a rare exception applies, the court may be forced to dismiss your case and permanently bar you from ever recovering compensation for your injuries.
Our Truck Accident Attorneys Can Help You Avoid Costly Mistakes with Your Claim
These are only a few of the most important mistakes to avoid after a truck accident. To put yourself in the best position to recover damages, let the team at GED Lawyers guide you through the litigation process. Our attorneys have spent years advocating on behalf of the injured, and we look forward to getting you all of the financial compensation you deserve. Contact us as soon as possible for a free consultation with a truck accident lawyer.
