Getting hit by a big rig is overwhelming. One minute you’re driving, the next—chaos. Maybe you’re dealing with injuries, a totaled car, or insurance companies already calling. You’re probably wondering, What do I do now? and Do I really need a lawyer for this? Let’s break it all down so you can make informed decisions without the stress.
1. I Just Got Hit by an 18-Wheeler. What Should I Do First?
First, take a deep breath. Your safety is priority #1. Try your best to follow these steps.
- Call 911– Even if you feel “okay”, get checked out. Injuries can take hours or days to show up.
- Get To a Safe Spot– if possible, move your vehicle out of traffic.
- Gather Evidence– Take pictures on the accident, your injuries, and any damage. Get contact info from witnesses.
- Don’t Admit Fault– Even saying, “ I didn’t see them” can be twisted against you later.
- Get Medical Attention– Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, aren’t immediately obvious.
2. Do I Really Need a Lawyer for a Truck Accident?
The short answer is yes. Truck accidents aren’t like car crashes. Here’s why:
- Big Companies. Big Insurance, Big Problems – Trucking Companies have teams of lawyers and insurers whose job is to minimize what they pay out. Without legal help, you’re at a serious disadvantage.
- Injuries Are Often Severe – More weight = more damage. Medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care costs add up fast.
- Trucking Laws are Complex – There are federal and state trucking regulations that could impact your case. A lawyer knows what to look for.
- You Deserve Fair Compensation – Insurers might offer you a quick settlement. It’s almost always far less than you actually need.
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, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. No out-of-pocket costs for you.
Still worried? Let’s put it this way: The trucking company already has lawyers working against you. Having your own attorney costs you nothing upfront and could mean the difference between covering your medical bill – or drowning in them.
4. What Kind of Compensation Can I Expect?
Every case is different, but compensation typically includes:
- Medical bills (current and future)
- Lost wages (if you can’t work)
- Pain and suffering
- Vehicle damage
- Punitive damages (if the truck driver or company was reckless)
Insurance companies might try to lowball you, but an experienced attorney fights for what you’re actually owed – not just what they want to pay.
5. The Trucking Company’s Insurance Already Called Me. Should I Talk to Them?
Nope. Not without legal advice.
Insurance adjusters sound friendly, but their goal is to protect the trucking company’s bottom line—not help you.They might:
- Try to get you to admit fault
- Offer a low settlement quickly (before you know the full extent of your injuries)
- Ask for a recorded statement that can be used against you later
Instead, politely tell them, “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?
This depends on your state’s statute of limitations, which can range from one to several years. In Virginia, it’s two years. But don’t wait. The sooner an attorney starts investigating, the stronger your case.
Evidence like traffic camera footage, truck logs, and driver records can disappear fast. Getting a lawyer early means they can preserve that critical information.
7. What If the Truck Driver Wasn’t the One at Fault?
Good question. Sometimes, fault lies with:
- The trucking company (for unsafe policies, overworked drivers, or poor truck maintenance)
- The truck manufacturer (if a mechanical failure caused the crash)
- A third-party maintenance crew (if they did faulty repairs)
An attorney knows how to investigate and determine who’s really responsible so you don’t get stuck with the bill.
8. What’s the Process Like If I Hire an Attorney?
Hiring a lawyer doesn’t mean a stressful court battle. In fact, most cases settle without ever going to trial. Here’s what happens:
- Free Consultation – You tell your story. The attorney explains your options.
- Investigation Begins – They collect evidence, interview witnesses, and analyze truck records.
- 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.
The best part? You can focus on healing while they handle the legal headaches.
9. Is It Really Worth the Effort?
Absolutely. Truck accident victims who hire a lawyer receive significantly higher settlements than those who go it alone. More importantly, it takes the stress off your plate so you can focus on getting better.
We Want To Help!
Getting hit by a big rig is scary, frustrating, and overwhelming. But you don’t have to go through it alone. Understanding your rights and getting the right help can make all the difference in your recovery – physically, emotionally, and financially.
Take it one step at a time, and don’t be afraid to reach out for the help you deserve. Call Williams DeLoatche, P.C. today: 540-385-5555