Common Mistakes to Avoid in the Aftermath of a Large Truck Crash
Large truck accidents are a serious problem across the United States. If you were hurt in a wreck with a big rig, it’s important that you take certain steps in the aftermath to preserve your right to sue.
It’s also important to avoid making critical missteps. Let’s take a look at some of the most common mistakes that truck accident victims tend to make, jeopardizing their injury claims in the process:
1. Confiding in the Insurance Adjuster
The insurance adjuster may come off as sympathetic, but at the end of the day, their job is to protect the carrier’s bottom line. As such, it’s wise to avoid corresponding with them until you’ve sought legal counsel.
It’s also advisable to refrain from giving a recorded statement, even if they insist they need one to process your claim. Saying anything on record that ends up containing inaccuracies will only serve to hurt your credibility down the road.
2. Accepting a Premature Settlement
As tempting as it may be, you should not accept the carrier’s first offer. If they’re especially motivated to settle, it likely means they recognize the validity of your claim and they want to resolve the situation before you’ve realized the full extent of the damages.
Even if the insurance company offers you a large sum of money, it’s best to speak to an attorney before you accept it.
3. Releasing Your Medical Records
Your medical records are valuable evidence of your injuries. The insurance company may try to get you to release them without giving you a chance to review them first. This could jeopardize your legal rights.
It also increases the chance of a dispute. If you have any preexisting conditions, for example, and you inadvertently release all of your records and not just those pertaining to the injuries you sustained, it could be used against you.
4. Missing Appointments
It’s important to follow medical advice and attend all of your doctor’s exams and physical therapy sessions. In addition to facilitating your recovery, prioritizing your health will demonstrate a commitment to mitigating damages.
5. Going up Against the Insurance Adjuster Alone
While you’re entitled to represent yourself, you have enough to worry about without having to build a strong claim. What’s more, insurance adjusters are essentially professional negotiators; by hiring an attorney who also happens to be one, you can essentially level the playing field.
Discuss Your Claim with a Truck Accident Attorney in West Palm Beach
Was your life turned upside-down by a large truck crash for which you weren’t at fault? To seek the compensation you deserve, reach out to Donaldson & Weston.
We have secured several multimillion-dollar settlements and verdicts on behalf of accident victims and their families. Put another way, our tenacious team has what it takes to go up against even the largest motor carriers and insurers. Call 261-299-3999 or submit our Contact Form to schedule a free initial consultation with a truck accident lawyer in West Palm Beach.
