Things To Know Before You Talk to a Truck Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, you are going to want to talk to a truck accident attorney. You are likely dealing with many distressing things simultaneously, such as physical pain, mental distress, medical bills, loss of earnings, and possibly the loss of a cherished family member. It can be a difficult and overwhelming time, but it’s essential to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Upon making the decision to speak to an attorney, you’ll need to prepare for your initial consultation. Your lawyer will have many questions about the tragic accident and its aftermath, and you will want to have the answers so you can aid them in evaluating the strength of your claim. It is also important to understand why this information is vital to your pursuit of compensation.
Should you or a family member suffer injury or death due to a truck accident, you need to talk to a truck accident attorney. At Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, we have vast experience in this type of litigation and dedication to our clients as they endure this traumatic event. Call us today at (201) 585-9111 (New Jersey) or (212) 543-1600 (New York) for a FREE consultation.
What Should I Know Before I Talk to a Truck Accident Attorney?
A consultation with a truck accident attorney involves a thorough discussion of your case. The attorney will ask questions designed to understand the circumstances surrounding the accident, the nature and extent of your injuries, and the impact the accident has had on your life.
Before you talk to a truck accident attorney at your initial consultation, here are some things you should have prepared:
The Timeline of Your Case
The sooner you talk to a truck accident attorney, the better. Not only because the statute of limitations for truck accident cases limits the time you have to file a lawsuit, but because critical evidence can be lost or destroyed over time. The specifics of your accident are still fresh in your mind immediately following the incident, making it the best time to recount the event in detail.
The statute of limitations on personal injury is 2 years in New Jersey and 3 years in New York. Both states have a 2-year statute of limitations on wrongful death.
Collect & Organize Relevant Documentation
Gather all documents and information related to the accident. This includes the accident report, medical records, medical bills, insurance policy information, photographs from the accident scene, witness contact information, and anything else that could support your claim.
- Were there any witnesses to the accident?
- Have you taken photos or collected any evidence from the accident scene?
Witnesses can offer an impartial account of the accident, which may support your claim. Physical evidence can significantly bolster your claim. Photos of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and your injuries can be particularly helpful. An attorney can guide you on what may be relevant.
The Details of the Accident
Your attorney must understand how the accident occurred. Remember as many details about the accident as possible. The more information you can provide—such as the date, time, location, weather conditions, traffic conditions, traffic cameras, speed, and actions of the other parties involved—the better your attorney can analyze liability and evaluate the potential of your claim.
- How did the accident occur?
- Where did the accident occur?
- What were the road conditions?
- Were the police called, and was a report filed?
Information About the Truck Driver and the Trucking Company
If possible, obtain information about the truck driver, the trucking company, and their insurance details. This information will help your attorney determine potential defendants in your case.
- What are the names of both the trucking company and the driver involved?
- Do you have the license plate numbers or specific details about the truck?
- Do you have the Commercial Driver’s License number of the driver?
- Have you done any research on the trucking company involved?
Understand Your Injuries & Medical Treatment
Did you receive immediate medical treatment? Seeking prompt medical care protects your health and strengthens your personal injury claim by establishing a clear link between the accident and your injuries.
Be prepared to discuss your injuries and medical treatment. Your attorney will need to know the details of your injuries, diagnosis, treatment plan, and prognosis. If you have not seen a doctor, it is crucial to do so as soon as possible. Your medical records will play a vital role in demonstrating the severity of your injuries and the need for compensation.
Your attorney will also want to understand the full extent of how your injuries have affected your life. This will inform your damages, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, lost wages, and diminished earning capacity.
- Are you restricted from normal activities or work because of your injuries?
- What diagnosis were you given after your accident?
- If you were taken to the hospital, how long were you hospitalized? What treatment was given?
- What symptoms are you experiencing since the accident?
- How has the accident impacted your life and your ability to work?
Disclose Any Interaction with Insurance Companies
If you have been contacted by an insurance company about the accident, let your attorney know. It is important to consult an attorney before settling with an insurance company, as initial offers are often much lower than you may be entitled to.
Additionally, whenever possible, have your lawyer talk to the insurance companies on your behalf, as they are practiced at it. It is in the insurance adjuster’s best interest to catch you admitting some fault for the accident, even when you are absolutely not at fault. Don’t give them the opportunity to twist your words and use them against you.
Be Ready to Discuss Past Accidents or Pre-Existing Conditions
Any past accidents or pre-existing conditions should be disclosed during your initial consultation. Past accidents or claims could potentially be used by the defense to dispute the extent of your injuries. Your attorney will want to be prepared for this as well.
While pre-existing conditions don’t prevent you from seeking compensation, they can complicate your case. Full disclosure allows your attorney to address these issues proactively. It is critical to be honest and open with your attorney so they can craft the best strategy.
- Do you have any pre-existing conditions?
- Have you had any other accidents or personal injury claims in the past?
Your Insurance Coverage
Your attorney will need to know about your insurance coverage, including any personal injury protection, bodily injury liability, property damage liability, collision and comprehensive, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and/or health insurance, as these may affect your claim.
- What insurance coverage do you have?
It’s Okay to Ask Questions
In fact, it is in your best interest to do so. Don’t hesitate to ask questions when you talk to a truck accident attorney. Any questions you have about the process, what you should expect, their experience, or anything else you’re unsure about are of great importance. It’s essential to feel comfortable with your attorney, and they should be more than willing to answer any questions you may have.
Two questions you’ll want to ask at your initial consultation are:
What is your experience with truck accident cases?
Every attorney has a different level of experience and expertise. Ask about their experience specifically with truck accident cases, their success rate, and if they have experience going to trial. This will help you understand if they are the right fit for your case.
How do you get paid?
Most truck accident attorneys, like Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if they win your case. Be sure to discuss the fee structure and any additional costs before hiring a lawyer.
Having a comprehensive understanding of the above points and being prepared to discuss them will be instrumental in helping your attorney evaluate and build your case.
Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer Today!
Don’t hesitate to talk to a truck accident attorney, even if you’re unsure about some of the aspects of your claim. An experienced lawyer can provide guidance and support, helping you navigate this challenging time.
Remember, you don’t have to face this alone. The skilled truck accident lawyers at Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi will fight for the justice and compensation you deserve, helping to ease your burden during this trying time. If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one in a truck accident, take the first step toward just compensation by contacting us for your FREE consultation today.
