Truck accidents involving 18-wheelers and smaller motor vehicles occur much too frequently on major highways like I-70 and I-71. Yet truck collisions can also occur at lower speeds and on narrower roads, as well. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), a total of 4,136 people were killed in large truck accidents in 2018, and a majority of them were occupants of smaller passenger vehicles.
If you or someone you love suffered serious or fatal injuries in a truck crash, it is important to know what steps to take to obtain financial compensation.
Obtain as Much Information as Possible at the Scene of the Truck Accident
I know that truck crashes are often deadly, and even when they are not, car occupants suffer debilitating injuries that require emergency transport to a nearby hospital. However, if you are physically and emotionally able to do so, it is important to obtain as much information as possible at the scene of the crash.
Just like in a less severe car crash or motorcycle accident, you should take photos if you can, and you should obtain contact information for anyone involved in the crash or anyone who witnessed it.
See a Doctor for a Medical Evaluation
Most truck accident victims do not have a choice about getting a medical evaluation. Most truck crashes are so serious that emergency responders must rush people involved in the crash to an emergency department. Yet in some cases, you may not immediately realize just how serious the collision was.
Even if you do not think you have serious injuries, you need to keep in mind that large trucks usually weigh 20 or 30 times as much as a passenger vehicle, and a collision can cause internal injuries. If you do not get a medical evaluation and it turns out your injuries worsen, the defendant can try to argue that you are not entitled to damages according to Ohio’s comparative fault law.
Work with a Truck Accident Lawyer to Begin an Investigation
You need to get started on your case with a truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. I can begin assessing your case and investigating who may be liable for the collision. We may be able to file a lawsuit against the truck driver, as well as parties with deeper pockets like the trucking company or the truck owner.
Call My Office for Assistance with Your Columbus Truck Accident Claim
I know how devastating truck crashes can be, and I know that individuals who do survive these severe collisions can suffer permanent disabilities and disfigurement. I also know how difficult it can be for families to think about a wrongful death lawsuit after losing a loved one in a fatal truck crash.Yet I also know how important it is to hold truckers and trucking companies liable when their careless or reckless actions cause serious and deadly injuries.
Depending upon the facts of your case, we may be able to file a lawsuit against more than one party. No matter what, I will do everything I can to help you obtain financial compensation for your losses. I’ll Make Them Pay!® Contact my office today by calling 877.614.9524.