A truck accident is no ordinary fender-bender. One moment, you’re driving along, and the next—your world is flipped upside down. Whether you’re dealing with serious injuries, a totaled car, or an insurance company already breathing down your neck, you’re probably asking: What now?
First, take a breath. You’re not alone. This guide will walk you through what to do next, clear up any confusion, and help you avoid mistakes that could cost you later.
1. What Should I Do Right After a Truck Accident?
Your health and safety come first. Here’s what to do:
- Call 911 – Even if you feel “okay,” let professionals check you out. Some injuries take time to show up.
- Move to Safety – If you can, get out of the way of traffic.
- Document Everything – Take photos of the accident scene, the truck, your injuries, and any damage. If there are witnesses, get their contact info.
- Don’t Admit Fault – Even saying “I didn’t see them” can be twisted against you later. Stick to the facts.
- Seek Medical Attention – Some injuries, like internal trauma, don’t show symptoms right away. Getting checked out also creates a medical record that can be crucial later.
2. Do I Really Need a Lawyer for a Truck Accident?
Short answer? Yes. Truck accidents aren’t like normal car crashes. Here’s why:
- Trucking Companies Have Teams of Lawyers – They’ll do everything possible to minimize their liability. You need someone fighting for you.
- Serious Injuries Mean Bigger Bills – Truck accidents often cause severe injuries. A lawyer ensures your medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care costs are covered.
- Complex Laws & Regulations – Trucking companies must follow federal and state laws. An experienced lawyer knows how to find violations that could strengthen your case.
- Insurance Companies Lowball Victims – They might offer you quick cash that barely covers your expenses. A lawyer fights for the compensation you actually deserve.
3. What If I Can’t Afford a Lawyer?
Good news: You don’t pay upfront. Truck accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if they win your case. If they don’t win, you owe nothing.
Still worried? Think of it this way: The trucking company already has a legal team working against you. Having a lawyer costs you nothing upfront and could mean the difference between being financially secure or drowning in expenses.
4. What Kind of Compensation Can I Expect?
Every case is different, but you may be entitled to:
- Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
- Lost wages if you can’t work
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Punitive damages if the trucking company or driver was reckless
The insurance company will try to pay as little as possible. A lawyer helps ensure you get what you actually need—not just what they want to offer.
5. The Trucking Company’s Insurance Already Called Me. Should I Talk to Them?
No. Not without legal advice.
Insurance adjusters seem friendly, but their goal is to protect the trucking company’s bottom line—not help you. They might:
- Ask you for a recorded statement they can use against you
- Offer a quick settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries
- Try to get you to admit fault, even in small ways
Instead, say: “I’m seeking legal counsel, and my attorney will be in touch.” Then, let a professional handle it.
6. How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
Each state has a statute of limitations, which means you have a limited time to file a claim. The statute of limitations in Virginia is 2 years, but don’t wait.
Why? Because critical evidence—like traffic camera footage, truck driver logs, and maintenance records—can disappear. The sooner a lawyer starts investigating, the stronger your case.
7. What If the Truck Driver Wasn’t the Only One at Fault?
Good question. Sometimes, responsibility falls on:
- The trucking company (if they pressured the driver to work too many hours or ignored safety regulations)
- The truck manufacturer (if faulty brakes or tires caused the crash)
- A third-party maintenance crew (if they didn’t do proper repairs)
An experienced attorney knows where to look to find out who’s really responsible.
8. What’s the Process Like If I Hire an Attorney?
Most truck accident cases don’t go to trial—they settle. Here’s how the process works:
- Free Consultation – You tell your story, and the attorney explains your options.
- Investigation Begins – They gather evidence, review truck logs, and consult experts.
- Negotiation with Insurance – Your lawyer fights for a fair settlement.
- Settlement or Trial – Most cases settle, but if needed, your lawyer will take it to court.
You focus on healing. They handle the legal battle.
9. Is It Really Worth the Effort?
Absolutely. Studies show that accident victims who hire lawyers receive significantly higher settlements than those who go it alone. Plus, having legal help means less stress, fewer headaches, and no upfront costs.
Take it one step at a time, and don’t hesitate to reach out for the help you deserve. Call Williams DeLoatche, P.C. now for a free consultation with an attorney. 540-385-5555