Delivery trucks have become a common sight in Texas neighborhoods as more people do their shopping online. These trucks, also known as box trucks, can be dangerous. As explained by an experienced Midland truck accident lawyer, these high-profile vehicles can be unstable and difficult to maneuver, and many times, the driver has little experience. Add that to the fact that often drivers are in unfamiliar neighborhoods looking at their GPS devices trying to find delivery addresses and it’s no wonder that accidents with these vehicles are on the rise.
What to Do After an Accident With a Box Truck
If you are injured in an accident with a delivery truck, you should take the following steps:
- Call the police to the scene. A police report will be a crucial piece of evidence in building a potential case.
- Take photographs or videos of the vehicles involved in the crash. Document the damage to both vehicles. Get the contact information for anyone who might have witnessed the crash.
- Get medical treatment, even if your injuries appear to be minor. Sometimes the adrenalin that floods your body after a traumatic event can mask symptoms. Insurance companies might also try to minimize the severity of your injuries if you don’t seek medical treatment.
- Be careful what you say at the scene of the accident. After the crash, you are not required to make a recorded statement to any insurance company until after you have spoken to an attorney.
- Call an attorney. Contacting an attorney after the crash will protect your rights and help ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
When you are involved in a crash with a commercial vehicle, there are multiple potential defendants. Depending on the details of the crash, responsible parties could include the truck driver, the company the truck driver works for, the manufacturer of the truck, or anyone who worked on the maintenance and repair of the truck.
Potential Injuries After a Delivery Truck Accident
Some of the most common injuries after a delivery truck accident can be serious—and even fatal. Many victims suffer from the following:
- Concussions and brain injuries. Symptoms of serious head injuries can include memory loss, chronic headaches, blurred vision, and cognitive changes.
- Spinal cord injuries. These can result in temporary or permanent paralysis.
- Broken bones. Bone fractures are painful injuries that often require surgery and months of rehabilitation.
- Amputations. Losing a limb is a life-altering experience that means long term physical therapy, prosthetics, and psychological trauma.
- Neck injuries. Whiplash happens when there is a forceful, rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck. It is a common injury after vehicle crashes—especially rear-end accidents.
- Burn injuries. Burns can happen as a result of a fire or explosion in a crash as well as contact with hot metal or steam that escapes from a damaged radiator. Serious burns can cause permanent scarring and can damage the underlying bones, muscles, and tendons.
Compensation You Might Be Awarded After a Delivery Truck Accident
You might be entitled to the following compensation after you are injured in a crash:
- The costs of your medical treatment, both in the past and expected costs for treatment in the future
- Lost wages and loss of future income if your injuries will prevent you from working
- Property damage
- Physical and emotional pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment if the injuries have negatively impacted beloved hobbies or activities
Dealing with the myriad details after a crash can be daunting, which is why you need an experienced attorney on your side. A lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected, and you are able to obtain all the compensation you deserve so you can focus on your recovery.
At The Button Law Firm, we work on a contingency basis, so there is no up-front cost to you. We don’t get paid until you receive damages. Call today to make an appointment for a free consultation so we can go over the details of your case.
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