How to Protect Your Rights After an 18-Wheeler Accident

Of all the different types of crashes on the road, those involving 18-wheelers are the most serious. After suffering severe injuries, your first priority may be on your physical recovery, but there are other concerns, as well. It is critical that you protect your rights to make sure you obtain the full and fair compensation you are entitled to. Below, our San Antonio 18-wheeler accident lawyer outlines how to do it below.

Report the Accident 

An accident involving an 18-wheeler is usually significant and so, medical personnel and law enforcement are likely to respond quickly. It is important that you contact police as soon as possible after any crash, so they can create an accident report. You can use the accident report in your case to prove the date, time, and location of the crash, the identity of the other driver and his employer, and who was at fault for the crash.

Know the Accident Laws of the State 

There are many different laws that govern truck accidents in Texas. It is critical to understand what those are so you can protect your rights. For example, using the modified comparative negligence laws in the state, the other side will likely argue that you were partly at fault for the accident. If they are successful with this argument, it will result in a lower settlement.

File Your Claim On Time

 There are certain steps you must take before you file a claim, such as understanding the severity of your injuries and how they will impact your future. Still, you should file your claim as quickly as possible. Truck accidents in Texas are governed by a statute of limitations, or a time limit. If you do not file your lawsuit within two years of the date of the crash, you will likely be barred from receiving any type of compensation at all.

Do Not Give Too Much Information 

You will have to provide statements to the police, but you should try not to give too much information. For example, you should never guess at what happened. If the police ask you a question and you are unsure of the answer, say you do not know. Also avoid making statements such as, “The truck came out of nowhere,” as the other side will use this to argue that you were not looking at the road at the time of the crash.

Lastly, make sure you never apologize, even to indicate that you regret the accident happened at all. The liable party will use this to say that you must have been at fault because you apologized for the crash.

Contact an 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer in San Antonio 

The best way to protect your rights after any crash is to speak to a San Antonio 18-wheeler accident lawyer. At the Law Office of Israel Garcia, our experienced attorney can advise you of the laws that apply to your case and protect your rights at all times. Call or text us now at 210-LAW-9999 or chat with us online to schedule a free consultation.

Sources:

statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/TN/htm/TN.550.htm

statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/CP/htm/CP.16.htm