When putting together a truck accident claim, it’s just as important to avoid taking the wrong steps as it is to take the right ones. Chances are you’ve never built such a claim, though, so you’re not entirely sure what to do—or not do—to give it the best chance of success.
The easiest way to determine the best path forward in your unique situation is by consulting an attorney. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer can help you navigate every stage of the proceedings. Your legal team will also ensure you avoid critical missteps along the way.
Let’s take a look at some of the most common mistakes that truck accident victims tend to make in the wake of the wreck:
1. Putting off Treatment
You should visit a doctor as soon as possible after leaving the scene. Postponing medical care could result in serious complications for which you’re deemed liable. As such, truck accident attorneys encourage clients to undergo a comprehensive exam right away.
In addition to starting you on the road to recovery, seeking treatment sooner rather than later will show the insurance adjuster that you were committed to mitigating damages. This, in turn, will make it harder for the opposing party to shift some liability your way.
2. Finding Comfort Online
Before posting about the accident or your injuries on social media, take a moment and consider all that’s at stake. Remember: The insurance adjuster will likely take to monitoring your online activity. If they do, could the things you post be misconstrued and ultimately used against you?
Truck accident lawyers will typically advise their clients to lay low on social media. As long as your claim is pending, keep the strictest privacy settings enabled and refrain from publishing anything about the crash or its aftermath.
3. Accepting a Premature Settlement
If the liable party’s carrier reaches out fairly soon after the crash and offers you a settlement, it will probably be tempting to accept it. Until you’ve arrived at maximum medical improvement, however, there’s no way to be sure of the extent of the damages. In other words, taking their first offer could mean walking away with a lot less than you deserve.
4. Discussing the Situation on Record
If the insurance adjuster requests a statement, it’s wise to defer to your legal team. Saying anything on record opens the door for disputes. This is especially true early on in the proceedings, before the investigations have concluded and you’ve reached maximum medical improvement.
Should you say something that turns out to be inaccurate, the opposing party may be inclined to challenge your credibility in general, thereby threatening the entire foundation of your claim.
Speak with a Jackson Truck Accident Lawyer
Were you seriously hurt in a collision with an 18-wheeler? For help holding the liable party accountable, turn to Brown Bass & Jeter, PLLC.
Our compassionate team is proud to advocate for accident victims who were wronged by others. To set up a free initial consultation with a truck accident attorney in Jackson, complete our Contact Form or call 601-487-8448.
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