Each day, numerous commercial vehicles travel to and through Modesto, Stockton, and the Central Valley. Roadways in this region of California serve as arteries by which large trucks and 18-wheelers transport goods throughout the state and country. With a large commercial vehicle presence, local residents face real, daily risks when traveling on public roads and highways.

Because commercial trucks are massive machines and because they pose elevated dangers to motorists and pedestrians, the trucking industry is heavily regulated. If you or your loved one has recently been injured in a truck accident, understanding your rights and taking the right steps can help ensure the best possible chance for recovering the compensation you deserve.

Some important things to keep in mind and do after a truck accident include:

• Collect Information – Collecting as much information as possible will only help to support your future personal injury claim. This includes the information of truck drivers and the companies for which they work for, the information of any other involved parties or witnesses, and information from any law enforcement officers who may have arrived at the scene. Taking pictures, if you are able to do so, may also prove beneficial.
• Seek Medical Attention – If you or a loved one suffers injuries, seek medical attention. Not only will this ensure that you receive the care you need, it will also help demonstrate that your accident caused damages. Even if you do not have visible injuries at the time of an accident, many medical experts suggest that you meet with a medical professional, as some injuries – including traumatic brain injuries – may not be readily apparent.
• Do Not Discuss Fault – Never discuss fault or accept blame after an accident. Doing so can threaten your ability to recover compensation. Even if you believe that you may be at fault, wait for experts to determine what happened. A defective auto part, for example, may have caused your accident without your knowledge. It is best to let professionals determine the underlying cause, as well as who can be held at fault.
• Do Not Speak with Insurance Providers – Trucking companies and their insurance providers are corporations focused on making money, not paying victims. As such, they do whatever they can to pay victims as little as possible, including offering settlements that are less than what victims deserve. You should never accept an offer made by the trucking company or its insurance provider without first consulting a legal representative.
• Consult an Attorney – Bringing your case to the attention of an experienced Modesto personal injury lawyer can ensure that you have the information you need. At Scott Mitchell Law Incorporated, a member of our legal team can help you understand your rights, the potential value of your claim, and how we may be able to help you recover compensation for your damages. All cases are unique, and we encourage all victims and families to meet personally with our truck accident attorneys for a free case evaluation.

If you or your loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Modesto, Stockton, or any of the surrounding communities, call (209) 418-7386 for a FREE consultation.