Don’t Talk To (Almost) Anyone After A Commercial Vehicle Accident

After an accident with a commercial vehicle, the average person is likely in shock, and often, in physical pain. It can be easy to stumble through the aftermath in a fog – but this is also the time in which drivers make the most mistakes in terms of dealing with insurers and their claims. If you have never been involved in an auto accident before, it is important to know how to protect your rights after the impact.

Insurers vs Law Enforcement

A person who has just been in an auto accident is not necessarily thinking clearly, particularly if their injuries are severe. Because of this, it is not uncommon for the driver’s employer company to attempt to get victims to sign papers that either indemnify the company, or take responsibility for the accident. Obviously, not every trucking company will engage in this behavior – but many will, seeking to avoid paying significant bills for medical expenses and lost wages.

While it is a good idea to avoid any communication with a defendant’s insurer after a road accident, it is important to speak to law enforcement as soon as possible. Unlike in some other states, Florida law requires that even if no injuries or damages occur, any accident involving a commercial motor vehicle must have a written police report. It is important to communicate calmly and concisely with police; any exaggeration or untruth that makes it into a police report can affect your case at a later date.

Let Your Attorney Speak

All this notwithstanding, there are moments where speaking to the defendant’s insurer may be necessary. It is here that having the right attorney on your side can make all the difference. In these types of cases, an attorney can act as a sentry of sorts, helping to ensure that your side communicates clearly and effectively, minimizing the potential for misunderstandings or for admissions that may be used against you.

In addition, a knowledgeable attorney can help build the foundation of your case against the (allegedly) negligent defendant – for example, they can access witness reports, CCTV camera footage, and other evidence more readily than an injured plaintiff in many situations. An attorney who has handled this type of case before will often have ideas on the best strategy to take in terms of prevailing at trial.

Contact A Tampa Commercial Vehicle Accident Attorney

The most important thing after a commercial vehicle accident is to protect your safety, but protecting your legal rights matters almost as much. A Tampa truck accident attorney from the Rinaldo Law Group can help handle the legal load while you focus on your physical well-being. Call our office today at (813) 831-9999 to schedule a free consultation.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.066.html