A truck accident can change your life. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks make these accidents particularly dangerous, often resulting in severe injuries, significant property damage, and long-lasting emotional trauma. If you've been involved in a truck accident in Milwaukee that resulted in a disability, it's crucial to take the right steps to protect your health, rights, and potential legal claims. Our dedicated Wisconsin truck accident lawyers at Hupy and Abraham can guide you through the necessary steps after a truck crash so you can better protect your rights and increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
Table of Contents
1. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention
Your health and safety should be your top priority. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic. Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance.
Truck accidents can lead to devastating injuries like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, and severe fractures. These injuries can bring lasting physical limitations, chronic pain, and a loss of mobility, all of which can seriously affect your ability to work, carry out daily tasks, and enjoy life as you once did.
It's important to follow your doctor's treatment plan closely and attend all follow-up appointments and consultations. If you have any doubts about your diagnosis or treatment, don't hesitate to seek a second opinion.
2. Document the Accident and Your Injuries
Proper documentation is key to building a strong case for fair compensation. Start collecting evidence as soon as possible after your truck accident. This includes:
- Copy of the police report. Obtain a copy of the police report from your accident. This official document provides crucial details about the incident and can support your claim.
- Record of expenses. Keep a detailed record of all medical treatments, appointments, and expenses related to your injuries. Save all bills, receipts, and insurance correspondence.
- Photos of your injuries. Take photos of your injuries as they heal and any visible disabilities resulting from the accident. These visual records can be powerful evidence of your suffering and limitations.
- Daily journal. Start a daily journal documenting how your injuries and disabilities affect your daily life. Note pain levels, challenges with everyday tasks, and emotional struggles. This personal account can help illustrate the accident's full impact on your life.
- Witness statements. Gather any witness statements or contact information from people who saw the accident occur. Their testimonies could prove invaluable in supporting your version of events.
3. Use Caution With What You Say
When speaking with law enforcement or insurance representatives, stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault or making speculative statements about the cause of the accident. Remember, anything you say could potentially be used against you in future legal proceedings.
Additionally, it is also important to avoid posting about the accident or your disability injuries on social media. What you post online can be used against you to downplay the severity of your disability and the impact it has on your life.
4. Evaluate Your Financial Situation and Future Needs
A disabling truck accident can have far-reaching financial consequences. It's essential to assess your current and future financial needs carefully. You will want not only want to consider your medical expenses but also the following:
- Lost wages. Calculate your lost wages due to time away from work. If you're unable to return to your previous job, estimate the long-term impact on your earning potential.
- Home modifications. Consider the costs of modifying your home or vehicle to accommodate your disability. These expenses should be factored into any compensation claim.
- Future financial goals. Think about how your disability might affect your ability to save for retirement or achieve other long-term financial goals. This "big picture" thinking is crucial when determining fair compensation.
5. Seek Legal Representation from a Milwaukee Truck Accident Lawyer
Dealing with a truck accident case can be overwhelming, especially when multiple parties may be responsible. An experienced truck accident lawyer will help you identify every possible source of compensation, whether it’s the truck driver, the trucking company, vehicle manufacturers, or others who might share responsibility for your accident.
Your lawyer will handle all conversations with insurance companies and opposing attorneys, shielding you from saying anything that might weaken your case. This allows you to focus on what truly matters—your recovery. They'll fight to protect your rights and strive to secure the maximum compensation you're entitled to.
Keep in mind that in Milwaukee, the statute of limitations for a truck accident claim is three years from the date of the crash. While there are exceptions, missing this deadline could mean losing your chance to recover any compensation. Your lawyer will ensure all deadlines are met, so you don’t have to worry.
At Hupy and Abraham, we recognize the unique challenges you’re facing, and we're here to support you every step of the way. Our experienced team has a strong track record of winning for our clients, as reflected in our case results and testimonials. Every case is different, but we approach each one with the same dedication and care to fight for the best possible outcome.