Getting into a car accident is always stressful. It is even more frustrating when the other vehicle is a commercial truck, delivery van, or company car. Commercial vehicle accidents mostly involve larger insurance policies, more severe injuries, and complicated questions about who is responsible for your damages. When in this scenario, you might be unsure where to begin or how to protect your rights. The good news is that you do not have to figure it out alone because Morris Bart’s car accident lawyers have extensive experience helping people navigate the unique challenges of commercial vehicle accident claims, ensuring you are not left to face powerful companies and insurers alone. Therefore, in case of an accident involving a commercial vehicle:
Prioritize Your Health and Safety
Your priority should always be your well-being. Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries, like concussions or internal trauma, may not be obvious at first. Additionally, prompt medical care creates a clear record linking your injuries to the accident, providing essential evidence if you decide to pursue a claim.
Report the Accident to Authorities
Always call the police and ensure an official accident report is filed. This report will document key details, including the parties involved, witness statements, and initial fault assessments. This official documentation can be crucial when you must prove what happened and who was responsible.
Gather and Preserve Evidence
Take photos of the vehicles, the accident site, visible injuries, and relevant road conditions. Get contact information for witnesses and note any identifying details about the commercial vehicle, such as company logos and license plate numbers. The more evidence you gather, the stronger your case will be when it comes time to establish liability.
Determine All Potentially Responsible Parties
Commercial vehicle accidents are often more complex than standard car crashes because multiple parties could be liable. The driver, their employer, a third-party maintenance company, or even a manufacturer could share responsibility for supplying defective appliances. An experienced attorney will know how to investigate the accident thoroughly and identify every party that may be held accountable, maximizing your chances for full compensation.
Consult a Skilled Personal Injury Lawyer
Dealing with commercial vehicle accidents is not something you want to handle alone. Insurance companies for commercial vehicles are often aggressive and have teams of lawyers working to minimize payouts. Consulting a personal injury attorney with a track record in commercial vehicle cases can level the playing field.
File a Claim or Lawsuit
Your attorney starts by filing a claim with the commercial vehicle’s insurance provider, presenting evidence, and demanding fair compensation. Your lawyer can file a formal lawsuit if negotiations stall and when the offer is insufficient. This involves drafting legal documents, serving the defendants, and entering the discovery phase, where both sides exchange evidence and take depositions.
Negotiate a Settlement or Go to Trial
Most commercial vehicle accident cases are resolved through settlement negotiations. However, if the other side refuses to offer a fair amount, your attorney will be prepared to take the case to court. At trial, parties present their evidence, and a judge or jury determines liability and damages.
Receive Your Compensation
Once your case is resolved, you will receive compensation for your losses through a settlement or a court verdict. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and costs related to ongoing care.
Conclusion
Suing a commercial vehicle after an accident can feel daunting, but understanding the steps involved and having the right legal team on your side can make the process much smoother. With experienced advocates like Morris Bart’s car accident lawyers guiding you, you can focus on your recovery while they handle the legal complexities. By following these steps, you will be well on your way to securing the justice and compensation you deserve.
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