It’s natural to react emotionally after a truck accident. The experience is often traumatic. Still, it’s important to stay in control of what you say and how you say it. It’s crucial to know what you should and shouldn’t say in the aftermath. Admissions of guilt or apologies can only compromise your potential personal injury claim. Keep your words to a minimum at the scene, and then reach out to an Orlando truck accident lawyer from DWK for help.
What should I say and not say to others involved in the accident?
Exchanging information with the truck driver or others involved in the crash is an important step after an accident. Share contact, insurance information, and truck company information. You should also speak to witnesses to get their contact details and ask them to send you an account of what they saw.
Do not make any comments that could be construed as an admission of guilt. Just saying “I didn’t see you” or a general “I wish this hadn’t happened” could be used to put fault on you, and
fault still matters in Florida despite the State’s no-fault status.
All drivers must carry personal injury protection (PIP) under Florida’s auto insurance requirements, and if an accident causes your injuries, you must first seek coverage through that PIP. If your damages exceed a certain amount, however, you can file an insurance claim against the at-fault party.
Should I call law enforcement?
One of the five things to do after a truck accident is call 911. Authorities can come to the accident scene and make an official police report. Again, be careful as you give your side of the situation. Try to remain calm. Limit your comments to the facts of the accident.
Speculating about what might have happened could work against you. Though it’s normal to feel upset, try to avoid exhibiting anger. If you can leave the scene on your own strength, you must still prioritize your health and see a doctor.
After that, connect with an experienced trucking accident attorney. You can talk openly with your attorney about the accident without fear of negative repercussions.
What shouldn’t I say to the at-fault party’s representatives?
You may hear from an insurance adjuster or other representatives of the truck company or driver after being involved in an accident. Remember that insurance companies and others in the at-fault party’s camp are out to protect themselves, not you. Let your truck accident attorneys speak to the other side for you.
The at-fault party’s representatives may look to resolve your insurance claim against them by offering you a fast settlement. The damage sustained in truck accidents, especially with an 18-wheeler commercial truck, is usually extensive. You’ll need fair compensation to achieve financial recovery and get justice.
Do not agree to any settlement offers without your attorney’s input. Most likely, that initial offer will be much lower than what you need and deserve, and your lawyer can work to negotiate a higher amount.
Can I say anything about the accident on social media?
Do not post about your accident on social media. In fact, it’s best to avoid posting altogether after an accident. You could say something or post a picture about an event that the other side could take out of context and use to undermine your injuries or dismiss your claims of pain and suffering. Even unrelated posts, like attending a party or smiling in a photo, can be used to question the seriousness of your injuries
We’re here to help you move forward
The truck accident lawyers at DWK are here to speak for you and handle all the legalities of your truck accident claim. To arrange a free consultation, contact us online or call (407) 244-3000. We are ready to listen and ready to get to work for you.