You wake up and find yourself in a hospital bed. Your whole body is in pain. Then your memory flashes back; you were involved in an accident driving your truck. The recovery process can be lengthy and financially draining. Filing for compensation can significantly ease the economical burden of the accident.
What Can You Recover?
The specifics of the crash will dictate the damages for which you qualify. After reviewing your case, an attorney can determine the damages for which you may file.
Medical Expenses
You can have several sources that may cover your medical bills. PIP is one of them. Personal Injury Protection covers the bill regardless of who is at fault. Many truck drivers use their workers’ compensation for benefits.
Property Damage
Personal property damage will be another area of compensation. This can cover truck damage and everything that was inside, including:
- The load
- Your phone
- Your laptop
- Other valuables
Furthermore, the compensator will cover truck repair or replacement cost in case of irreversible damage.
Income Shortage
From the time you were diagnosed to fully recovering, the insurance should compensate you for the lost wages. The insurance company bases its offer on a careful calculation of your income potential. Canton Truck Accident Lawyer will help you with the whole process of seeking compensation.
Wrongful Death
In some cases, the truck driver might die. Apart from the emotional pain incurred, there is also the financial aspect. This means the economical support for the family is cut short. In this case, surviving loved ones can file for compensation.
Practice Safe Driving
By practicing safe driving, you can considerably decrease the risk of accidents. Some precautions while driving a truck in Canton include:
Driving Hours
The federal government requires all truck drivers to indicate the number of hours they have been driving. This ensures that they get enough rest and sleep. Drowsiness is a leading cause of accidents. However, sometimes, pressure from employers cause drivers to falsify their logbooks, endangering their own lives and other peoples’ lives.
Weight of the Truck
Overloading the truck is another major cause of accidents. It is difficult to control an overloaded truck as weights can shift, causing the vehicle to roll over. Trucks’ weights are closely monitored and regulated to ensure safety.
Proper Hiring Procedure for Truck Drivers
All truck drivers are required to undergo a mandatory medical examination to determine whether they are fit to drive. Also, companies are expected to offer sick leave to any driver on medication that can interfere with their driving ability.
What to Do in Case of an Accident
No matter how careful one is, accidents can happen due to someone else’s negligence. It is vital to know what to do after a crash.
Seek Medical Assistance
Check yourself for any injuries. Major or minor. Also, check whether everyone involved in the collision is safe. If there are injuries, call 911. Calmly answer the dispatcher’s questions and wait for assistance.
Report the Crash to the Police
The 911 dispatcher will also inform the police. In case of any query from the police, give honest answers.
Document the Scene
If you are physically able, take some photos at the scene. They come in handy when presenting your case. Ensure that you take them from every possible angle.
Identify the Other Driver
Regardless of who is at fault, get the relevant information about the other party involved in the crash. Also, if there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information. Their testimony can be valuable for your claim.
Be Careful With Your Words
Once you contact the insurance company, they will ask you some questions. Whatever you say to them can be used against you. Never admit to being in the wrong. Let the police document it.
Get Your Truck Examined
The accident might seem small with no impact. However, internal parts might be damaged, which can later cause another accident. It is advised to be thorough and take precautions to ensure your future safety.
Pursue Justice
If you decide to seek justice and compensation for your injuries, a lawyer will be a valuable resource. They will protect your rights and your livelihood throughout the process. Furthermore, knowing that a legal expert handles your case, you may fully focus on your recovery.
