WHAT SHOULD YOU DO WHEN YOU’RE HURT ON THE JOB?
The steps you take immediately following an on-the-job injury can significantly impact your health as well as your potential personal injury and worker’s compensation benefits. We’ve put together a quick list of tips for injured truckers to follow when they are hurt on the job.
Whether your injury occurs on the road or at a worksite, following these tips will help you get the injury documentation process started on your own and be fully prepared for your Hurt Trucker Attorney to step in to help.
Here are the initial steps you should take if you’re involved in a truck accident.
TIP #1: REPORT THE INJURY TO YOUR EMPLOYER
If you’re involved in an accident while driving a truck, the first thing you should do is report the injury to your employer.
Your employer is required by law to maintain a record of all workplace injuries, and this will be the first step in getting the workers’ compensation benefits you’re entitled to.
When you report the injury, be sure to put it in writing and keep a copy for your records. Explain how the accident happened, what injuries you sustained, and where and when the accident occurred.
TIP #2: WRITE A DESCRIPTION
Write a description of how the injury happened while it is still fresh in your memory. This will be important evidence if your case goes to trial. Include as many details as possible, such as the date, time, and location of the accident, as well as a description of the events leading up to the accident.
Truck accidents often involve multiple vehicles and can be complex, so it’s important to get as much information down as possible, including the contact information for the other driver, the name of the trucking company, insurance company information, and any witnesses. If you have photographs of the accident scene or your injuries, be sure to keep those as well.
TIP #3: SEEK MEDICAL TREATMENT
When you seek medical attention for your injury, be sure to tell the doctor exactly how the accident happened and give a complete description of the pain and problems you are experiencing. It’s important to get a complete and accurate diagnosis of your injuries so that you can get the treatment you need and document the full extent of your injuries for your personal injury claim.
You should also keep copies of all medical expenses related to your injury, as well as any lost wages from missed work. These will be important when it comes time to file a personal injury claim or seek workers’ compensation benefits.
TIP #4: NO SIGNATURES OR STATEMENTS
Don’t sign any document you do not understand or give any recorded statement to anyone unless you have legal counsel present! After a serious trucking accident, representatives from the trucking company, their insurance company, and even your own company may contact you.
They may try to get you to sign documents or give a recorded statement, but you should always decline. These representatives are not looking out for your best interests and may use anything you say against you in your personal injury claim.
The only time you should give a statement is to the police at the scene of the accident or to your personal injury attorney.
TIP #5: CONTACT A PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER
After a trucking accident, you need an experienced personal injury lawyer on your side. A personal injury lawyer will help you navigate the complex legal process and ensure that your rights are protected.
When you’re dealing with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and lost wages, the last thing you want to worry about is whether or not you’re getting the full compensation you deserve. A personal injury law firm will handle all the legal details of your case so that you can focus on your recovery.
What Are the Common Causes of Personal Injuries for Truck Drivers?
Truck drivers face numerous hazards on the road, leading to various truck accident injuries. Some common causes of truck accidents include driver fatigue, equipment malfunctions, adverse weather conditions, and other drivers’ negligence.
In many semi-truck accident scenarios, the sheer size and weight of the vehicle can amplify the severity of injuries. External factors like poor road conditions or a lack of proper maintenance can also contribute to accidents.
It’s essential for drivers to report any incident as soon as possible and obtain a police report for documentation.
What Role Do Trucking Company Policies Play in Personal Injury Claims?
Trucking companies play a significant role in the trucking industry, especially concerning personal injury claims following a truck accident. Their policies and practices can significantly impact a truck accident case.
For instance, if a trucking company neglects regular vehicle maintenance, leading to an equipment malfunction and, subsequently, a semi-truck accident, it could be held liable.
Moreover, if a company enforces tight schedules, pushing drivers beyond safe hours, it may contribute to driver fatigue and accidents.
After a truck accident, insurance companies representing the trucking companies often work quickly to limit their liability. This is why individuals should consult a truck accident lawyer as soon as possible after the accident.
An experienced attorney can help victims navigate the complexities of a semi-truck accident claim, ensuring they pursue compensation for medical costs, pain and suffering, lost future income, and other damages.
Proper documentation from medical providers is vital for proving negligence and recovering compensation. Truck accident attorneys can guide victims in collecting evidence, understanding the nuances of trucking company policies, and ensuring their well-being and rights are prioritized.
In the aftermath of a commercial truck accident, it’s crucial to make sure all steps are taken to secure the best outcome in a personal injury case.
HAVE A QUESTION? CONSULT A HURT TRUCKER ATTORNEY
Our personal injury lawyers have helped commercial truck drivers claim millions of dollars in benefits after being hurt on the job. Don’t settle for less than you are owed! Contact Hurt Trucker Attorneys by form, phone, or email any time with your questions to get no-cost, no-obligation answers from an expert.