Although we don’t like to think about it, those who have been or have seen a loved one hurt in an accident involving a semi truck face a slew of consequences, including:
- Mounting hospital and doctor’s bills
- Surgeries and other medical treatments
- A long rehabilitation and recovery process
- Lost work and lost wages
- Depression and grief
Throughout this stressful, painful process, accident victims are also often searching for help in getting compensation from those responsible. If a trucking company may be at fault, fears of expensive courtroom battles with high-priced, big-company lawyers only add to the anxiety caused by the accident and resulting injuries. However, help is available.
Could a Company Be Liable For Your Collision?
There are several reasons a trucking company could be found negligent in a personal injury lawsuit. These reasons include:
- Failure by a driver to use proper caution when operating his or her truck and following all safety and highway laws and regulations
- Failure of the company’s mechanics to properly inspect or repair the truck, resulting in issues with the truck’s brakes, engine, wheels or steering system
- Failure by the company to ensure that all cargo and the trailer are properly secured to allow safe travel
- Carelessness by employees in moving cargo to and from the customer’s location.
If you can prove that the company or driver was negligent, there is a good chance you can get compensation for your injuries.
Preparing Your Personal Injury Claim
If you have been in an accident involving truck and believe you have a personal injury claim against the company, there are a few steps you can take to help ensure success on your claim.
Most importantly, take detailed notes as soon as possible after your collision. Record everything you and other witnesses can recall the vehicles involved, the time of day, the weather and road conditions and, if available, the health and state of mind of all drivers involved.
In addition, gather as many details as possible about any and all injuries suffered, no matter how small, and collect details of all hospital and doctor visits, medical bills, lost work time and lost wages resulting from the accident.
If you can, get statements from your doctors stating the extent of your injuries and linking those injuries to the collision.
In addition to taking notes, take photographs of the accident scene, as well as pictures of the road and/or intersection in which the accident occurred. You should also take pictures of any damage to all vehicles involved and any property damaged in the area of the accident, such as road signs, guardrails, sidewalks and pavement.
If you feel you do have a personal injury claim against a trucking company, do not hesitate to contact a lawyer. An experienced personal injury lawyer will be the most important weapon you have in your battle for proper compensation for injuries and loss arising from an accident.
*The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against UniGroup, Inc, or any other party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
