Michigan Truck Accident Lawyer
Why Hire a Lawyer?
Truck accidents are not the same as car accidents as there can be additional parties involved other than the driver and insurance company. It is essential to contact a Michigan attorney familiar with the unique legal proceedings of big-rig traffic accidents to receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured in a tractor trailer accident you may be entitled to a settlement or financial compensation. Unfortunately, many victims will not receive their fair and just compensation because they don’t contact a skilled attorney. The legal road is bumpy for those who are not familiar with the court system, and we have the experience to fight for the financial award you deserve. Don’t settle for little or nothing just because a large corporation tries to intimidate you. We have inside information that they don’t want you to know. Don‘t risk waiting.
If you are one of the people involved in a truck accident, don’t attempt to fight alone for what is owed to you. Our Michigan lawyers have already handled many truck accident cases, and we’re ready to help you win a fair and just settlement. Call us anytime, 24 hours a day, and we will be happy to serve you. Remember, our lawyers fight for You.
Statistics
- The US Department of Transportation defines a truck accident as a vehicle weighing greater than 10,000 pounds colliding with a passenger car, pedestrian or another truck.
- 2016, the last year with available statistics, saw 180,000 large truck crashes resulting in 125,000 crashes which caused injuries.
- Trucking revenue in North America totals into the hundreds of billions of dollars.
Goodwin’s 5 Steps
Truck accidents are not identical to car accidents: there may be more than one defendant in a big-rig accident, the trucking company may defend the claim more intensely, and the investigation of the accident may be more difficult. What you do immediately after a tractor trailer accident can affect the outcome of a personal injury case. If you happen to be involved in a trucking accident, take these five steps to protect your rights and ensure you receive the full compensation entitled to you by law:
Call the police or dial 911
Take an account of any injuries and call for help. Because of the nature of big-rigs, your injuries may be more significant. Let the dispatcher know of your location and if anyone has been harmed and the extent of the injuries. In most cases a police officer will be sent to the scene. Try not to move your vehicle until the police have arrived. It is essential that you obtain a police report, as it is highly unlikely your insurance company will assist you with any claims if a report has not been filed.
Speak to witnesses
If you are able, while waiting for the police or ambulance, speak to any witnesses that may have seen the accident, and speak to the driver of the truck involved in the accident. Keep conversation minimal and do not admit fault. Even an “I’m sorry” can be construed as something it is not. Avoid apologies and admissions of guilt until all of the facts have been gathered. Talk to anyone who may have seen the accident and gather their contact information.
Take photographs
Use your cellphone or a digital camera to take photographs of the automobiles involved in the accident, any damage to your vehicle, skid marks, traffic signals and signs, and any intersections. These can be helpful depictions later when filing your claim.
Document your injuries
Even if you feel fine, make sure to get a checkup with a reputable doctor or at the emergency room immediately following the accident. The more information you have, the better off you will be later. Keep copies of all documents presented to you, including any documentation from the hospital or doctor and the police report.
Contact a licensed Michigan attorney
Don’t leave anything to chance! Let an experienced Michigan lawyer assist you through the complex legal process. Contact Goodwin & Scieszka anytime, 24 hours a day. No matter when or how you are affected by a truck accident, our attorneys will be available to support you, and to ensure you receive the full care and compensation you deserve. Remember, our lawyers fight for you.