(2/13) A truck accident usually leads to significant property damage, injury, and sometimes loss of life. In most cases, the owner of the truck is liable and would be required to compensate all the parties involved. However, their lawyers will do everything possible to pay out the lowest amount possible. How can you fight for yourself or your loved one to maximize your compensation claims in the event of an accident? Let's find out how.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
If you live in Cincinnati, the first thing you may want to do after a truck accident is call an accident lawyer Cincinnati. While this is not a bad idea, it should come much later. First, you should seek medical attention if you or your loved ones are injured. Seeking medical attention isn't just going to maximize your compensation; it can also potentially save your life.
Work With Evidence
Another crucial thing you must do is collect as much evidence about the case as possible. Evidence includes witness statements, medical records, police reports, driver logs, and even the maintenance records of the truck. Most importantly, you should provide videos and photos of the accident and the aftermath.
Contact an Experienced Attorney
With evidence in hand, you should contact an experienced attorney with knowledge of and expertise in truck accident cases. Explain your situation to them and employ their services to help you navigate the legal process. The lawyer will sort through your collected data and gather more to support your case. If the case gets to court, the lawyer will represent your interest.
Calculate Damages
Damages aren't picked randomly. They are usually calculated based on several factors. These factors include lost wages, medical expenses, emotional distress, property damage, and pain and suffering. Your lawyer can help you determine a fair compensation amount considering these variables. They may recommend maxing out the compensation in preparation for the next step.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies aren't just paying out the compensation you request for damages. They would do everything within their power to pay you the lowest amount possible. Your lawyer will need to provide detailed documentation reflecting the severity of the damages. They must prove that the accident caused significant strain on your life if you want the best result. Things get a little complicated when the accidents are due to natural disasters like blizzards.
Trial
If your lawyer cannot negotiate a settlement with the insurance company, the case may need to go to court for intervention from the court. During the trial, your lawyer will prove that you tried your best to settle the case out of court. They will subsequently present your case effectively and wait for the judge to grant judgment.
Conclusion
Finally, remember that there is a statute of limitations for accident cases. Find out what it is in your state. In most instances, you must file a lawsuit for at least two to three years. The sooner you file the papers, the better it will be for your case.
