Experiencing the chaos and violence of a collision with a large commercial truck can have devastating consequences and leave you with potentially catastrophic injuries. Regardless of the circumstances, there are several preventative measures you can take to preserve your rights. Consulting with an experienced and knowledgeable North Charleston truck accident lawyer can put you on the right path.
Shelly Leeke Law Firm has extensive experience in negotiating with insurance providers and navigating the confusing and complicated legal system throughout South Carolina. With decades of combined experience counseling victims of nearly every type of motor vehicle and personal injury cases, we can help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact our law firm to schedule a free consultation and learn how to protect your rights after a serious truck accident.
Take These Steps Immediately After a Truck Collision
After being struck by an 18-wheeler, delivery, or box truck, you are likely feeling terrified and unsure of what to do next. Provided you are conscious, alert, and able to do so, move your vehicle to the shoulder or right side of the road. Immediately after, follow these critical steps.
Contact Emergency Services
Although you may be in shock with adrenaline coursing through your body, call 911 and request police and emergency medical assistance. If staying in your vehicle is not an option, such as if the vehicle is on fire or smoking, do your best to move yourself and any passengers to a safe distance from the crash. If you cannot remove yourself from the vehicle but can reach your cell phone, call 911 and be sure to explain that you are unable to leave the vehicle.
When Emergency Services Arrive
Even if you feel relatively unhurt or slightly injured, do not refuse medical care or disregard the advice of qualified medical personnel. You may have internal injuries that you are unaware of, or you do not immediately feel because of the hormones your brain has released into your body due to the trauma of the collision. Following professional medical advice will demonstrate how seriously you are taking your health and will assist your car accident lawyer in South Carolina with building your future case.
Collect Any Evidence You Can
If you have been able to safely move your vehicle to the shoulder, have exited the vehicle, and contacted emergency services, you can begin collecting evidence by taking photos of your vehicle, the vehicle that struck you, and any injuries that you may have suffered. You can then help protect yourself by requesting the contact information and insurance details of any other individuals involved in the crash. Requesting contact information from any potential witnesses can also assist your lawyer in building your case if insurance does not cover your damages.
Contact a Reputable Truck Accident Attorney with Shelly Leeke Law Firm
If you have been able to contact emergency services and police and ensure you are in a safe location, contacting a reputable legal advocate with Shelly Leeke Law Firm can be a powerful asset in seeking maximum compensation for your injuries and damages. We may be able to meet you at the accident scene or consult with you virtually. This way, we can help guide you through the situation and assist you with recording any evidence or details you may have overlooked due to your disoriented state.
You May Have Injuries that Are Not Obvious
Our South Carolina catastrophic injury lawyers have represented numerous accident victims from nearly every type of motor vehicle accident. There are catastrophic injuries that you may have suffered that are not immediately apparent but could be potentially dangerous to your health or even fatal. Ensuring you are thoroughly examined by qualified medical professionals can help you avoid major consequences from injuries such as:
- Head injuries
- Neck injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Whiplash
- Organ damage and internal bleeding
- Second impact syndrome
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Concussions
Many of these injuries do not manifest symptoms until your body has been able to relax and the adrenaline spikes subside. This demonstrates how critical it is to be professionally evaluated. Avoid any possible complications by making sure to follow all medical instructions you receive from paramedics and doctors.
Be Aware of These Laws to Protect Your Rights
There are several laws in South Carolina that you will need to consider to protect your rights to compensation. As the victim of a truck accident, it is your right to hold the liable party accountable. However, you will need to adhere to these important laws to protect your right to seek justice.
Statute of Limitations
According to the South Carolina Code of Laws Title 15 Chapter 3, you will only have three years from the date of the accident to file legal action. There are specific instances when this time limit can be paused or “tolled”, such as when your injury is not immediately diagnosed. For example, if your injury was not diagnosed until a week after the collision but can be directly attributed to the crash, the time limit would start from the date of your medical diagnosis.
Modified Comparative Negligence
In the state of South Carolina, under the South Carolina Contribution Among Tortfeasors Act, you may only seek compensation if you are 50% or less at fault for the accident. However, this means if you are found to be partially responsible for the collision, your payout may be reduced. For example, if you were found to be speeding at 10 mph over the posted speed limit and the judge rules you to be 10% at fault, your total compensation will be reduced by 10%.
Connect with an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney for Your Best Chance at Legal Recourse
Preserving and protecting your rights is paramount to pursuing justice. Having knowledgeable and diligent legal counsel guiding you through the claims and legal processes can be vital to recovering the financial relief you need to begin to rebuild your life after a devastating accident. You have the right to be made whole.
Connect with a trusted truck accident attorney with Shelly Leeke Law Firm to discuss the specifics of your case. We are proud to represent our clients and to pursue the justice they deserve. Call our offices or complete our secure online contact form now to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation as soon as today.
