Being involved in an auto accident is a traumatic experience. This is especially true if you have been hit by a drunk truck driver. Trucks are much larger and heavier than the traditional passenger vehicle. Because of their size, they are much more likely to cause serious injuries and major damages.
If you have been hit by a drunk truck driver, you will want to pursue a personal injury claim against the driver to recover any compensation for any damages that resulted because of the crash. Such personal injury claims are challenging, so you should consult with a personal injury lawyer as soon as you can after the crash.
What to Do If You Are Hit by a Drunk Truck Driver
If you have been hit by a drunk driver, you should stay on the scene of the accident as you would with any other crash. You should always call the police, so an accident report can be completed.
It is imperative for an officer to investigate the crash. Usually, preliminary fault is determined by the officer who completes the accident report.
You should take photos of the accident scene, if possible. Get statements from any witnesses along with their names and contact details.
Be sure to give your side of the story to the officer for inclusion in the report. Be sure to state facts, not opinions. Seek medical care right away. It is important to establish care for your injuries as soon as possible.
Damages That Might Result From Being Hit by a Drunk Truck Driver
Various damages can result from being hit by a drunk truck driver. Here are some of the more common damages that might result from being hit by a drunk truck driver:
- Past and future medical bills
- Past and future lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Mental anguish and emotional trauma
- Disabilities
- Property damages
You will need to maintain documentation to support your claim. Here are some documents that you will need to keep as evidence for your claim:
- Medical bills and records
- Written repair estimates
- Photos of property damages and of the crash scene
- Receipts for towing
- Receipts for prescriptions
- Mileage for travel to and from medical appointments
- Proof of missed work and lost wages
- The accident report
- Photos of visible injuries
Consult With a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you have been hit by a drunk truck driver, you will want to speak with a personal injury attorney. A lawyer can have a significant impact on your case. With the help of an attorney, your odds of a successful claim increase significantly.
Personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, so they aren’t paid until you are compensated for damages. You have nothing to worry about and nothing to lose. You want to enlist the help of a lawyer who is licensed in your state, so he or she is familiar with state laws. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page.
