How to Maximize Compensation After Being Hit By a Big Rig

If a big rig has hit you, you’re probably wondering how much compensation you can recover for the damages the driver caused. Truck accidents are different from regular car accident cases because you may be able to hold the driver’s employer liable for damages. Trucking companies tend to have deeper pockets than the average person, which could impact the amount of your settlement.

Here, a Florida truck accident attorney explains how to maximize your compensation after being hit by a big rig.

Gather Evidence at the Accident Scene

Not many people think about collecting evidence immediately after a truck accident. However, by gathering evidence, your lawyer will have an easier time building your case.

Use your phone to take pictures of the accident scene if you can. Take photos of the truck that hit you and your car from different angles. Scan the road for debris, such as broken glass, parts that fell off your car, and tire skid marks. Take pictures of anything else that looks like it might be important.

Try to decipher what caused the accident. Is there a road sign or stoplight blocked by tree branches? Did the truck driver hydroplane on a puddle of water? Take photos of this evidence, too.

Witness statements can also count as evidence. If you find any witnesses, ask for their contact information so your lawyer can reach them later.

Calculate Your Damages

You’ll need to assign a value to your claim to maximize compensation. A Florida truck accident attorney can help you with this.

Damages you can sue for include:

• The cost of your medical treatment, both current and anticipated. This may include ambulance transportation, surgeries, emergency room care, physical therapy, medications, and specialist visits.
• Property damage to your car and other belongings
• Lost wages if you must take time off work to recover
• The cost of disability modifications you need to install in your home, such as a modified shower, stair lift, or wheelchair ramp
• Wrongful death if a loved one died in the accident

Don’t Accept the First Settlement Offer Without Talking to a Lawyer

After the trucker’s insurance company reviews your claim, they will likely make you a settlement offer. Many accept this first offer without carefully reviewing it because they’re unsure how much their claim is worth.

This could be a mistake. Often, the insurance company will lead with a lowball settlement. If you accept it, you can’t return later and ask for more.

This is why having your lawyer review the offer before accepting it is important. If the settlement is unfair, they can negotiate with the insurance company for a higher offer. Should that fail, they can take your case to court.

Hire a Truck Accident Attorney

Quite a few people don’t hire an attorney after an accident because they think they can handle the claim themselves. If you want to maximize compensation, hiring a good lawyer is one of the smartest things you can do.

Your lawyer can:

• Thoroughly review all evidence for your case.
• Identify all liable parties.
• Request black box data from the truck that hit you.
• Contact accident reconstructionists.
• Talk to the insurance company for you.
• Explain the statute of limitations (two years in the state of Florida, recently lowered from four years).

If you aim to maximize compensation, you need the help of a reliable Florida truck accident attorney. The Law Offices of Marc L. Shapiro, P.A., has nearly 30 years of experience assisting victims of truck accidents. Call our truck accident attorneys at 239-500-5000 for a consultation.