The sheer scale and complexity of commercial truck accidents in Minnesota, often result in significant damages and serious injuries. In the crucial moments and days following a collision, the steps you take can significantly influence the well-being of everyone involved, as well as the strength of any insurance claims you can pursue. From ensuring immediate safety, reporting the accident, and documenting the scene, to the intricacies of dealing with insurance and seeking legal counsel, each step is critical and pivotal.
With high stakes and aggressive insurer defenses, the importance of experienced legal guidance cannot be overstated. Truck insurers usually send their own investigators to the accident scene within hours of the accident. You need to have your own investigation started as soon as possible. At Knutson + Casey, we ensure your rights are protected and that you have the resources you need to achieve the best possible outcome.
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Experiencing a commercial truck accident can be a harrowing ordeal, leaving you unsure of what steps to take next. The immediate actions you take not only impact your safety but also have significant implications for any subsequent legal claims.
The following is a comprehensive guide to navigating the aftermath of such accidents in Minnesota:
Immediately after the accident, prioritize the safety of all involved. Move to a safe location if possible, and use hazard lights to alert other motorists. Check for involved parties for injuries and call emergency services to report the collision and request medical assistance if needed. It’s essential to get a professional evaluation, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Minnesota law requires reporting any traffic collision involving significant property damage, injuries, or fatalities. This report will be a critical piece of documentation for insurance claims and potential legal actions.
If it’s safe to do so, take comprehensive images of the scene, including damage to all vehicles involved, any visible injuries, road conditions, and traffic signs or signals. Also, try to capture the positioning of the vehicles post-collision. Visual evidence is invaluable for insurance claims and legal analysis.
Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved. For commercial trucks, it’s also important to note the trucking company’s name, the truck’s license plate, and any identifying information about the driver and the vehicle, such as the DOT number.
If there were any eyewitnesses to the accident, collect their names and contact information. Objective accounts from witnesses can play a crucial role in establishing the facts of the case.
Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s wise to see a doctor or visit an emergency room for a thorough check-up. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, may not manifest symptoms immediately. Documenting your medical care is essential for any potential injury claims.
Report the collision to your insurance company as soon as possible. Describe the accident, but avoid admitting fault or making definitive statements until you’ve consulted with a lawyer. Insurance companies often use such admissions against claimants in the process.
Given the complexities of commercial truck accidents, including determining liability among multiple parties and navigating federal and state regulations, consulting with the experienced truck accident lawyers at Knutson + Casey is advisable. We may guide you through the legal process, help protect your rights, and ensure you’re adequately compensated for damages and injuries. We can send out an investigator right away to take photos, and send out drone cameras to film the accident scene. And our investigator can work to obtain the truck’s black box information and other crash data. Time is critical in truck accidents.
Avoid posting or commenting about the accident or your injuries on social media. Insurance adjusters and legal teams often monitor such platforms for evidence that could undermine your claim.
Continue to follow your doctor’s advice and attend all follow-up appointments. Consistent medical records are vital for substantiating the extent of your injuries and their impact on your life.
By following these steps, you can ensure your safety, protect your legal interests, and lay the groundwork for a fair resolution to your claim.
After a commercial truck accident in Minnesota, damages can be recovered through a legal claim to compensate victims for the physical, emotional, and financial tolls of an accident. These damages are broadly categorized into economic, non-economic, and, in some cases, punitive damages.
Economic damages are tangible losses that have a specific monetary value associated with them. They aim to reimburse the victim for out-of-pocket costs and financial losses incurred as a result of the collision, including the following:
Non-economic damages compensate for the non-monetary aspects of your losses, which are significant but not easily quantifiable.
Punitive damages may be granted in rare cases where the opposing party’s conduct is found to be especially harmful, showing deliberate disregard for the safety of others. These are meant to punish the opposing party and deter similar conduct in the future. In truck cases, punitive damages can be sought for many reasons, against the truck driver, the trucking company, and even the trailer company.
The complexity of commercial truck accidents often involves multiple parties, including the truck driver, the commercial trucking company, and potentially other entities such as cargo loaders and vehicle manufacturers. This can influence the types and amounts of damages recoverable, as liability may be shared among several parties.
To accurately assess and pursue the full extent of damages you’re entitled to, speak with the lawyers at Knutson + Casey. We may advocate on your behalf to ensure you recover compensation for all your losses.
The steps you take immediately following a commercial truck accident are pivotal not just for your physical recovery but also for safeguarding your legal rights and ensuring you are justly compensated for your losses. From prioritizing safety and gathering crucial evidence to consulting with a seasoned attorney, each action contributes to the strength of your case.
If you were injured due to negligence in a commercial truck accident, don’t face it alone. The legal team at Knutson + Casey has experience handling commercial truck accident claims and will help you fight for the best possible outcome. Call us today for a free consultation at (507) 344-8888 or fill out a contact form.