Truck accidents are among the most severe motor vehicle collisions, often resulting in life-changing or incapacitating injuries for those involved.
The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks can amplify the impact, leaving victims unable to follow the typical steps recommended after an accident.
In these moments, prioritizing safety and seeking immediate medical attention are critical.
While it may not always be possible to gather evidence at the scene, taking action as soon as you are able can protect your rights.
At Keith Law Group, we understand the challenges truck accident victims face and are here to guide you through the steps you can take to build a strong case.
If you are able to, take the following steps after a truck accident:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention – Your health is the priority. Even if injuries don’t seem severe, visit a doctor to identify potential internal injuries or delayed symptoms.
- Contact Law Enforcement – Report the accident to the police so an official accident report can be filed, which may serve as key evidence.
- Document the Accident Scene – If possible, take photos or videos of the accident, your injuries, and any visible truck or roadway damages.
- Collect Information – Obtain the contact details of the truck driver, their employer, and witnesses, as well as the truck’s insurance and registration information.
- Consult a Truck Accident Lawyer – Speak with an experienced attorney to protect your rights, handle communications with insurers, and begin building your case.
- Preserve Evidence – Keep copies of medical records, repair estimates, and any correspondence related to the accident.
- Avoid Speaking with Insurance Adjusters Alone – Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim; let your lawyer handle all communications.
- Follow Medical Advice – Adhering to your doctor’s treatment plan not only aids recovery but also documents the extent of your injuries for your claim.
Taking these steps can make a significant difference in securing the compensation you need to recover after a devastating truck accident.
Gathering Evidence for Your Truck Accident Claim
Evidence is crucial in truck accident claims to establish liability, demonstrate the severity of your injuries, and support your demand for compensation.
Truck accidents often involve complex factors, such as federal trucking regulations and maintenance records, which require thorough investigation and preservation.
At Keith Law Group, we have the experience and resources to gather critical evidence, from accident reports to electronic logging device (ELD) data.
Common evidence in truck accident cases includes:
- Accident Reports – Police and incident reports detailing the crash.
- Photographs and Videos – Visual documentation of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries.
- Witness Statements – Testimonies from bystanders who saw the accident.
- Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Data – Records of the truck driver’s hours of service and compliance with federal regulations.
- Maintenance and Inspection Records – Proof of whether the truck was properly maintained.
- Driver’s Employment Records – Information about the driver’s qualifications, training, and previous safety violations.
- Medical Records – Documentation of your injuries, treatments, and related costs.
- Black Box Data – Information from the truck’s event data recorder, including speed, braking, and mechanical performance at the time of the crash.
- Correspondence with Insurers – Communication with insurance companies regarding your claim.
- Repair Estimates – Costs for repairing your vehicle or other property damage.
Collecting this evidence early can significantly strengthen your claim and increase the likelihood of a fair settlement or verdict.
Contact Keith Law Group to help you protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
Common Damages in Truck Accident Cases
In a legal context, damages refer to the financial compensation awarded to a victim to address the losses caused by another party’s negligence.
In truck accident cases, damages aim to cover both tangible costs, like medical bills and property damage, and intangible losses, such as pain and suffering.
These cases often involve substantial damages due to the severity of injuries and the complex factors surrounding truck accidents.
At Keith Law Group, we work closely with our clients to identify and document all the damages they have incurred.
By presenting comprehensive evidence, we fight to secure the maximum compensation you are entitled to under Arkansas law.
Common damages in truck accident cases include:
- Medical Expenses – Current and future costs for surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, and medications.
- Lost Wages – Compensation for income lost during recovery or due to a reduced ability to work.
- Pain and Suffering – Non-economic damages for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property Damage – Costs to repair or replace vehicles and other damaged property.
- Loss of Consortium – Compensation for the loss of companionship or support suffered by loved ones.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life – Damages for the inability to engage in hobbies, activities, or everyday pleasures.
- Punitive Damages – Awards intended to punish the truck driver or company for gross negligence or intentional misconduct.
- Out-of-Pocket Costs – Expenses like transportation to medical appointments or necessary home modifications.
Understanding and calculating these damages accurately is essential to building a strong case.
Keith Law Group is dedicated to ensuring every client receives fair compensation for the full scope of their losses.