You're driving home on I-25 near Albuquerque when a delivery truck suddenly swerves into your lane. Despite your evasive maneuvers, the delivery vehicle clips your rear bumper, causing your car to spin off the highway. Overwhelmed and in pain, you wonder what to do next.
After a commercial delivery truck crash, you need a clear plan to safeguard your health and your legal rights. The experienced New Mexico truck accident attorneys at Keller & Keller are here to help you pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Here’s what you need to know if you’ve been in a delivery truck crash.
Prioritize Your Health and Safety
Immediately after a delivery truck crash, your priority should be seeking appropriate medical care. Even if you feel mostly fine, it's crucial to get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. Some serious injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, may not show obvious symptoms right away.
Prompt medical attention not only protects your well-being but also establishes a clear record linking your injuries to the delivery truck accident. Insurance adjusters will scrutinize any gaps or delays in treatment, so be proactive about your health.
Gather Critical Evidence
If you're able to do so safely, collect key evidence at the crash scene, including:
- Photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries
- Contact and insurance details for the delivery truck driver
- Names and contact information of any witnesses
- The name of the delivery company and any identifying numbers on the truck
A police report will provide valuable documentation, but don't rely on law enforcement to gather all necessary evidence. The more proactive you are, the stronger foundation you'll have for your injury claim.
Report the Crash to Your Insurance Company
Most auto insurance policies require timely reporting of accidents. Promptly notify your insurer of the delivery truck crash. Stick to the basic facts and avoid speculating about fault. If the insurance company requests a recorded statement, decline until you've consulted with a knowledgeable New Mexico truck accident attorney.
Be Cautious When Dealing With the Delivery Company
Following a serious delivery truck crash, you may be contacted by representatives from the trucking company or their insurance carrier. Their goal is to minimize payouts, not to ensure you're fairly compensated. The insurance company may employ tactics like:
- Offering a quick, lowball settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries
- Asking you to sign blanket medical authorization forms
- Trying to get you to admit partial fault for the crash
To protect your rights, avoid discussing the specifics of the accident or your injuries with anyone except your own doctor and lawyer. Never accept a settlement or sign any documents without first consulting an experienced attorney.
Understand How Commercial Truck Accident Claims are Unique
When a delivery truck driver causes a crash, you're not just up against an individual—you're facing off against a large corporation with a team of lawyers looking to protect their bottom line. Trucking companies are well-versed in strategies to minimize their liability, such as claiming the driver was an independent contractor.
To level the playing field, you need a skilled New Mexico truck accident attorney who understands the nuances of commercial vehicle crash claims. Your lawyer will thoroughly investigate the accident, gathering evidence to build a compelling case for maximum compensation.
Contact a New Mexico Truck Accident Attorney for Help
After a serious delivery truck crash, you need an advocate to handle the details so you can focus on your recovery. In New Mexico, you have a limited time to file a personal injury lawsuit. An experienced New Mexico truck accident attorney will:
- Conduct a thorough, independent investigation to uncover critical evidence
- Identify all potentially liable parties, including the driver, trucking company, and vehicle or parts manufacturers
- Consult with accident reconstruction specialists and medical experts to build a strong case
- Handle all communications with the insurance companies and protect you from unfair settlement tactics
- Negotiate skillfully for a just settlement or fight for you in court if needed
If a negligent delivery truck driver has seriously injured you or a loved one, don't wait to seek legal guidance. The skilled attorneys at Keller & Keller offer free consultations to discuss your case and explore your options for pursuing justice. After a delivery truck crash, let us handle legal matters while you focus on healing. Together, we'll work tirelessly to hold negligent trucking companies accountable and fight for the full, fair compensation you deserve.
