How to Protect Your Rights After a Truck Accident

Because commercial truck crashes can result in such severe injuries and costly losses, it is important to know what to do after an accident. One step is to consult with a Columbus truck accident attorney. 

Collisions involving trucks and other types of large commercial vehicles in Ohio are notorious for their ability to produce profound and sometimes catastrophic injuries. The sheer disparity in size and weight between heavy trucks and traditional passenger vehicles often renders it virtually impossible for affected motorists to avoid serious harm when crashes occur.

Unfortunately, incidents of this type are frequently the result of negligent acts or omissions on the part of truck drivers, vehicle equipment manufacturers, or others. The ensuing burdens of medical expenses, lost wages, physical pain, and emotional trauma can be overwhelming, and it is therefore vitally important for victims and their families to take a series of actions to protect their right to pursue compensation. A Columbus truck accident attorney stands ready to help fight for maximum compensation for each injured client.

What to Do in the Aftermath of a Truck Crash

Though the immediate aftermath of a serious injury accident is often fraught with confusion, the steps taken in those first days and weeks can make all the difference when it comes to securing financial recovery and accountability from responsible parties. Though it may sound like a tired cliché, time truly is of the essence in terms of obtaining the evidence necessary to prevail in a truck accident case. 

Among the most important post-crash tasks are things such as:

• Contacting law enforcement immediately so that a police report can be generated.
• Taking photographs of the accident scene and all attendant damage.
• Speaking to available eyewitnesses to obtain real-time recollections.
• Gathering contact details and insurance information from all involved parties.
• Avoiding oral admissions of guilt.
• Writing down details of the accident and recording any immediate physical symptoms.
• Obtaining medical treatment, taking prescribed medicines, and following suggested therapies.
• Maintaining medical records and logging missed work hours and wages.
• Declining requests from insurance carriers to discuss settlement without first securing the help of an attorney.

Time Limitations on Truck Injury Claims

Though the law in Ohio does afford truck accident victims the right to pursue compensation from negligent parties, the time they are given to do so is not unlimited. According to state law, lawsuits stemming from incidents of this type must generally be filed within two years of the event in question if the claim is to be preserved, and a conscientious injury attorney will ensure that all relevant deadlines are timely met.

Comprehensive Representation for Accident Victims

A skilled truck accident lawyer can provide critical assistance starting in the days or weeks following a crash by assembling evidence, gathering records, and beginning the process of negotiations with insurance carriers. Because insurance adjusters and defense attorneys will do everything they can to cast doubt on the seriousness of a victim’s injuries, shift blame for what occurred, and deny appropriate financial recovery, it is crucial for those harmed in truck accidents to align themselves with a zealous advocate as soon as possible to safeguard their rights.

Schedule a Consultation with a Columbus Truck Accident Attorney

At The Jones Firm, we possess the knowledge, skill, and resources necessary to help truck accident victims aggressively assert their rights to fair financial compensation. If you have suffered serious harm and would like to schedule a no-cost initial consultation, contact us today online or by calling 614-209-5162.