Getting into a wreck with a massive commercial vehicle can leave you with severe injuries, property damage, and in some cases, emotional trauma. It is easy to understand how errors can be made in circumstances like these with so much stress and uncertainty. Being prepared by speaking with a knowledgeable legal professional soon after your incident can help you learn what mistakes to avoid in Columbus truck accident cases.
If you were in a collision with a negligent trucker, contact O’Connor, Acciani, & Levy to speak with our Columbus truck accident attorneys for help. We can guide you through the complex process and work towards the best potential outcome.
Mistakes that are Commonly Made after Semi-Truck Crashes
After a collision with a big rig or tractor-trailer in Columbus, there are mistakes to avoid to ensure you do not jeopardize your potential of collecting the maximum settlement amount. Trucking companies typically have insurers and attorneys ready to fight on their behalf, looking for any way that they can avoid financial liability. Some common errors to avoid include:
Failing to Seek Medical Care
Failing to seek medical care could give the trucker's insurance company or attorney cause to assert that there were no bodily injuries. Without physical harm that warrants medical treatment, there are no grounds for a claim seeking compensation. Seeing a doctor as soon as possible after a wreck ensures you receive any needed treatment and helps protect your eligibility to recover for your losses.
Failure to Call the Police After the Accident
Sometimes people skip calling the police after accidents, which is never a good decision. The officer will complete an investigation and provide information, including the police report, that is invaluable for a claim for damages.
Neglecting to Collect Vital Evidence
It is essential to collect evidence right away if you are physically able. You should never attempt to rely on your memory alone. Unless there are severe injuries that limit mobility, you should try to take photos of the accident scene, the damage to both vehicles, and the wounds sustained, and try to get the contact information of any present witnesses.
Insurance Companies and the Statute of Limitations
Insurance adjusters may seem friendly and like they are there to offer help. However, they are often looking for proof that will reduce your settlement amount. Thus, speaking with insurance representatives directly should be avoided unless directed and adequately prepared by a trusted attorney.
Another vital mistake to avoid after a Columbus commercial vehicle collision is missing the deadline described under the statute of limitations. Per the Ohio Revised Code § 2305.10, you have two years from the date of the incident to file a claim or settle out of court. Missing the cutoff date will usually mean losing the ability to recover compensation for the damages. Our attorneys could ensure that the appropriate action is taken within these critical time limits.
Call Our Columbus Attorneys to Learn More About What Mistakes to Avoid in Truck Accident Cases
Making even a minor error can significantly hurt your chances of collecting compensation. Contact one of our qualified legal professionals for the best chance of collecting the maximum settlement amount.
We can walk you through the complex process and offer support and guidance during a challenging time. Call O’Connor, Acciani, & Levy to know what mistakes to avoid in Columbus truck accident cases.
