Three Things Never to Say After a Truck Accident in Miami
Were you involved in a semi-truck accident? If so, it is crucial that you know how to navigate the claims process so that you are in the best possible position to get justice and the maximum financial compensation. Unfortunately, too many people make mistakes in the aftermath of a crash that undermine their own interests. At Pike & Lustig, LLP, we advocate tirelessly for injured victims. In this article, our Miami semi-truck accident attorney highlights three things that you should never say after a tractor trailer crash in South Florida.
- “I Was at Fault” or “I Might Have Been at Fault”
Florida is a no-fault motor vehicle accident state, including for semi-truck crashes. Under Florida Statutes § 627.7407, all motorists must obtain Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. Your initial claim is through your own PIP provider—regardless of fault for the crash. With that being said, you can step outside of the no-fault system if you suffered a serious injury in a truck accident. Fault can be a big issue after a bad crash. Saying you were at fault at the accident scene can prematurely waive your rights— fault should be determined by thorough investigation. Do not make any assumptions. Even if you believe you contributed to the accident, other factors unseen to you, like mechanical failures or other drivers’ mistakes, might be the actual cause.
- “I Feel Okay” or “My Injuries are Not that Bad”
In Florida, truck accident compensation is designed to make the injured victim “whole.” In other words, it is linked to the actual nature, scope, and severity of your injuries. Truck companies and their insurers want you to downplay your injuries so that they can resolve your claim for less.
Even if you feel okay, you may actually be very badly injured. After a truck accident, adrenaline can mask pain and injuries, so saying “I feel okay” may not accurately reflect your true medical state. Unfortunately, early statements about your health can be used by insurance companies to minimize your injuries and reduce the compensation
- “I Do Not Need an Attorney”
Truck companies and their insurance carriers want to pay out as little as possible in legal claims. The absolute last thing they want is for you to hire a lawyer. Suggesting that you will not hire an attorney can make you a less formidable opponent in the eyes of insurance adjusters. It is a big deal as it could potentially lead to lower settlement offers. Do not try to take on the nuances of the claim process alone. An attorney can help navigate the case. Speak to a top Miami semi-truck accident lawyer before giving a statement to an insurance company.
Consult With a Top-Rated Miami, FL Tractor Trailer Crash Lawyer Today
At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our Miami semi-truck accident attorney has the experience you can count on when it matters most. If you or your loved one was hurt in a semi-truck accident, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a free case review. From our office in Miami, we handle semi-truck accident cases all across Southeast Florida.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0600-0699/0627/Sections/0627.7407.html%20
