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A Commercial Vehicle Hit My Car – What Next?
hit by a company vehicle

Auto accidents are unfortunately a common occurrence, ranging from minor fender benders to serious crashes. If you have been hurt in a car accident, and it was another driver’s fault, you are able to recover the cost of your medical bills, as well as compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, and emotional distress.

If you were hit by an 18-wheeler or other commercial vehicles, the company that owns or operates the vehicle is ultimately responsible for paying those costs. For the best outcome, you may want representation from an experienced Houston 18-wheeler accident lawyer. The Law Office of Richard Schechter, P.C. can provide the legal support that you need.

What to do after a commercial vehicle accident

If a commercial vehicle hit your car, the first thing to do is ensure that you and your vehicle are safely off the road and that no one needs immediate medical attention. It is highly recommended to call the police to the scene and file an accident report.

In the commercial vehicle accident report, take note of the license plate of the car or truck that hit you and any company name printed on it, as well as any witnesses that may have seen the accident.

If you are in any pain after the collision, you should seek medical attention promptly. This is the best course of action for your own wellbeing, and it is also the best way to document your injuries and their cause. When evaluated by a physician or nurse, be sure to let them know that you were hurt in an auto accident. This will aid their diagnosis and treatment.

Be cautious of any representative from the company that owns the commercial vehicle or truck that hit you, as well as their insurer. Depending on the facts of the collision and the extent of your injuries, you may be able to negotiate a significant accident settlement, but the responsible party will likely try to persuade you to settle in exchange for a low fee before you are fully aware of your rights.

In the aftermath of a commercial truck accident

If you were hurt in a collision with a truck, or any company vehicle, it is advisable to wait until your injuries are fully diagnosed and you reach maximum medical improvement before settling your claim. After being hit by a company vehicle, it may take months or even years to obtain a commercial vehicle accident settlement or otherwise resolve the situation. In the meantime, it is important to continue treating your injuries and following your doctor’s advice, while keeping records of all medical bills and related costs.

The amount that you are ultimately able to collect from the company or its insurer depends on the nature and severity of your injuries, in addition to whose fault is determined to be the cause of the accident. The general rule is that the party at fault pays the damages , but deciding who caused the accident is rarely easy. In many cases, both drivers share responsibility for causing the collision. If you are found to be partially at fault, your reimbursement may be reduced or even eliminated altogether.

If you are successful in suing over a commercial vehicle accident, you can be reimbursed for your medical bills and any lost wages due to time spent in the hospital and in recovery. You may also receive compensation for lost future earning capacity or disability due to long-term or permanent injuries. Finally, you are eligible to be compensated for your pain and suffering, as well as mental anguish caused by the accident.

Due to their potential exposure as a result of these collisions,, companies and their insurer are likely to negotiate aggressively and attempt to pin the blame on you, instead of the company’s driver. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with an experienced auto accident lawyer in Houston who can evaluate the accident report, medical records, lost wages and other evidence in your case and advocate for the best result possible. Contact The Law Office of Richard Schechter, P.C. today for a free consultation.

About the Author

Richard Schechter
Richard Schechter
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A Passion for Justice