I Was Hurt in a Semi-Truck Accident in Florida—What Should I Do Next?
Motor vehicle collisions are stressful—especially so when a large truck is involved. Not only are eighteen wheeler accidents more likely to cause serious injuries, the claims process can be even more complicated. A wide range of different issues can arise. For injured victims, a proactive approach is an absolute must. At Pike & Lustig, LLP, we are focused on helping truck accident victims secure the maximum financial compensation. Here, our Miami truck accident lawyer highlights the steps to take after being involved in a crash with a big rig in South Florida.
Step #1: Stop Your Car and Call the Police
You should stop your vehicle, get it to a safe location, and contact the authorities. All semi-truck accidents in Florida that result in physical injuries must be reported to law enforcement. Be sure to call the state or local police immediately. An official report will document the incident—and that police report can be important for your claim later on.
Step #2: Exchange Information With the Truck Driver
Approach the truck driver calmly and exchange contact and insurance information. Make sure to note their name, phone number, driver’s license number, and insurance details. Also, record the truck’s license plate number and the company’s name. The more details that you have, the better positioned you will be to navigate the legal claims process.
Step #3: Get Medical Care for Any Injuries
Your health is the first priority after a semi-truck accident in Florida. If you sustained severe injuries, emergency medical care comes first. Non-emergency injuries still need to be evaluated by a doctor. Many injuries arise with a delayed onset. A healthcare professional can assess your condition and provide necessary treatment.
Note: Florida has a 14-day rule for no-fault motor vehicle accident claims, including truck accidents. If you do not seek medical care within 14 days of the crash, your claim can be denied.
Step #4: Notify Your Insurance Carrier (No-Fault Coverage)
Florida is a no-fault insurance state. You should contact your insurance company—specifically your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) provider—to report the accident. Provide them with the basic details of what happened.
Step #5: Avoid Giving a Statement to the Truck Company’s Insurer
If you were seriously hurt in a semi-truck accident—which is, unfortunately, not uncommon—you can bring a fault-based claim against the trucker, trucking company, or another party. Politely decline any requests to give a statement to the truck company’s insurance representatives. Anything you say might be used against you later. They are not on your side. Speak to an attorney first.
Contact Our Miami Semi-Truck Accident Attorney Today
At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our Miami tractor trailer accident attorney is committed to investing the time and resources into each and every case. We put injured victims first. No claim is too complicated for our team. Contact us today to set up your free case evaluation. Our attorneys fight for victims and families all across the surrounding area in South Florida.
