Interstates account for 29.8% of areas where truck accidents occur. High speeds, improper lane changes and failing to yield to a right of way are often involved in truck-related crashes. As an I 85 truck accident lawyer, we know that accidents occur all along the interstate, including:
Trucking accidents are complex and require the guidance of an attorney who understands Alabama laws and will hold all responsible parties accountable for your pain, suffering, lost wages, property damage and more.
We provide the legal counsel you need to recover from your injuries with confidence that your lawyer is fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today to speak to an attorney serving Auburn, Montgomery, Opelika and Tuskegee.
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What To Do If You Were Just In A Truck Accident On I-85
Accidents happen, and the steps you take afterward are crucial because they will link the accident to your injuries and losses. Even if your accident has already happened, it’s still important to follow the steps below.
Call 911
You’ll want to call 911 immediately following the accident. A police report proves that an accident occurred and will include crucial information about the accident location, witnesses, all parties involved and other details.
Do not take the blame for the accident when talking to the authorities or say anything that can be viewed as you being at fault for the accident.
If you’re injured, ask for an ambulance to be dispatched.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you have no apparent injuries, seek medical attention. As an I 85 truck accident lawyer, we’ll use this information to prove your injuries were linked to the accident. Follow all medical advice, attend follow-up appointments and keep copies of all medical treatments you received.
Ask Witnesses for Contact Information and Gather Evidence
If you’re physically able to do so, ask witnesses for their contact information. Take photos and videos of the accident scene, road conditions, injuries, vehicle damage, and anything else relevant to the accident.
As soon as possible, contact a lawyer to help you navigate the legal steps ahead.
Common Injuries After A Truck Accident
Truck accidents are often deadly, and while they can cause a wide range of injuries, some of the most common include:
- Back injuries
- Head injuries
- Neck injuries
- Bone fractures and breaks
- Burns
- Internal injuries
- Disfigurement
- Damage to your joints, ligaments and tendons
- Much more
Your doctor’s tests and imaging will help prove your injuries.
How To Handle Insurance Companies After A Truck Accident
Trucking companies and their insurers will act quickly after a truck accident. While you’re receiving treatment for your injuries, their investigators will likely be busy gathering evidence and building their defense.
You may even hear from the insurance adjuster before you start filing your claim. The adjuster may try to offer a settlement or get a statement from you.
It’s important to remember that the insurance company’s goal is to protect their business and pay out as little as possible in a settlement.
There are several steps you can take to protect yourself and your claim when dealing with insurance companies.
Stick to the Facts
If you take a call from the insurance company, avoid going into detail about the accident and stick only to the facts. Do not admit fault or make any statements that might suggest you may have been at fault.
Consider consulting with a lawyer if you haven’t done so already. Once you hire a lawyer, you can tell the insurance company to direct all of their questions to him or her.
Do Not Sign Anything
At some point, the adjuster may ask you to sign a form that authorizes the insurer to access your medical records.
Politely refuse to sign any documents provided by the insurer. A lawyer can help determine what information should be shared with the insurer (if any) and will handle all communication on your behalf.
Document Your Medical Care
The insurance company will be looking for ways to dispute or undermine your claim. Thorough documentation of your injuries and care will help shield your claim against their tactics.
Make sure that you:
- Follow your doctor’s orders
- Attend all follow-up care appointments
- Make appointments with all recommended specialists
- Take any medications you are prescribed
- Attend physical therapy sessions
- Keep a record of all medical bills, communications with your employer, letters from your health insurer and estimates for the replacement or repair of your vehicle
- Gather copies of the police report and any other evidence you were able to collect at the accident scene
The more evidence you have of your injuries and damages, the stronger your claim will be.
Hire a Lawyer
Trucking companies and their insurers can be aggressive and relentless in their pursuit of evidence to undermine or outright reject your claim.
When you’re trying to recover from an injury and pick up the pieces of your life, the last thing you want to deal with is an unsympathetic insurance company.
Having a lawyer on your side will eliminate the stress of having to deal with insurance companies. A lawyer will handle all communication with the insurer, explain your legal options when pursuing a claim and build a strong case for your claim.
Why Choose Attorney Brian Carmichael?
Accidents on I-85 can be serious or fatal, especially when semi-trucks are involved. You need an I 85 truck accident lawyer who understands the nuances and complexities of truck accident claims and how to handle them.
Attorney Brian Carmichael is an experienced truck accident lawyer with a reputation for getting results (400+ Google reviews). He knows the tactics insurance companies use to get out of paying a fair settlement, and he will fight back to secure the compensation you are entitled to and deserve.
Throughout his career, Attorney Carmichael has helped clients all throughout Alabama with their truck accident claims.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and discuss your options.
