An 18-wheeler is barreling down the highway, weaving between lanes. Suddenly, the massive vehicle slams into your car, sending you off the road. You're seriously hurt, your vehicle is totaled, and your mind is racing with worries about the future.
In the chaos after a devastating truck accident, it's easy to make mistakes that could undermine your legal right to compensation. At Keller & Keller, our Albuquerque truck injury lawyers are dedicated to guiding crash victims through the claims process while avoiding costly missteps.
Here are five common errors that can derail your truck accident claim and how our experienced legal team can help protect your interests every step of the way.
Mistake #1: Not Calling Police to the Accident Scene
Truck accidents often cause extensive damage and serious injuries. Some victims, in a post-accident haze, make the mistake of not calling 911 if they're able to move their vehicle off the road. This is a critical error for two reasons:
- Ensuring prompt medical care. Truck accident injuries may not be immediately apparent. EMTs can assess your condition and provide emergency treatment.
- Documenting the accident. Police reports provide an official record of the crash. The responding officer will note important details like road conditions, vehicle damage, and potential traffic violations.
Without a police report, you may have difficulty proving how the accident occurred and who was at fault. Protect your health and your claim by calling 911 after any truck accident.
Mistake #2: Giving a Recorded Statement to the Insurance Company
After an accident, the trucking company's insurer may pressure you to give a recorded statement about what happened. They may seem friendly and say they need your statement to process your claim quickly.
However, the insurance adjuster's goal is to find ways to minimize or deny your claim. They may try to get you to admit partial fault or downplay your injuries. Agreeing to a recorded statement without consulting a lawyer is a mistake that can seriously damage your case.
Instead, politely decline to give a recorded statement and refer the adjuster to your Albuquerque truck accident lawyer. Your attorney can communicate with the insurance company on your behalf to protect your rights.
Mistake #3: Failing to Seek Prompt Medical Care
It's a mistake to skip a medical evaluation after any truck accident, even if you feel okay. Some serious injuries, like brain trauma or internal bleeding, may not be apparent right away. Failing to get checked out puts your health at risk.
Delaying treatment also gives the trucking company grounds to argue your injuries weren't caused by the accident. The insurer may claim you made your condition worse by not seeking prompt care.
Protect your well-being and your legal rights by getting a complete medical exam as soon as possible after an Albuquerque truck accident. Follow your doctor's treatment plan closely and attend all follow-up appointments.
Mistake #4: Posting About Your Accident or Claim on Social Media
In the digital age, it's natural to want to update friends and family about your truck accident and injuries via social media. However, posting about your crash or claim online is a big mistake. Insurance companies routinely monitor social media for evidence to use against injured claimants.
Something as simple as a photo of you smiling at a family event could be used to argue your injuries aren't as severe as you claim. Prevent the defense from twisting your words by staying off social media until your case is resolved.
Ask friends and family not to post about you or your accident. If you must use social media, never discuss your crash, injuries, or legal claim. Set your accounts to private and don't accept requests from new friends or followers.
Mistake #5: Accepting the First Settlement Offer
The trucking company wants to resolve your claim as cheaply as possible. Soon after the accident, the insurer may offer you a lowball settlement, hoping you'll accept a quick check and sign away your legal rights.
While it may be tempting to take fast money, especially if you're out of work and facing bills, settling too soon is a mistake that can cost you dearly. Once you accept a settlement, you can't go back and ask for more money if your injuries turn out to be worse than you thought.
Instead, let a skilled Albuquerque truck injury attorney assess all your damages and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. At Keller & Keller, we fight for settlements that fully account for our clients' needs, including:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Vehicle repair or replacement
- Other injury-related losses
If the insurance company won't make a fair offer, we're fully prepared to take your case to court.
Don't Make a Mistake That Could Cost You
After an NM truck accident, you may have only one chance to get the compensation you need to pay your bills and provide for your family. Don't let a simple mistake compromise your case.
At Keller & Keller, our experienced Albuquerque truck injury attorneys will handle every aspect of your claim so you can focus on your recovery. We know the tactics used by trucking companies and their insurers, and we have the knowledge and resources to fight for your rights at every turn.
