Have you been injured by a commercial vehicle?
Commercial vehicles are essential to keeping our economy moving, but when they are involved in collisions, the consequences can be devastating. Due to their size, weight, and complexity, accidents involving delivery vans, utility vehicles, company cars, buses, and other commercial vehicles often result in serious injuries and significant property damage. These cases can also involve multiple liable parties, making them far more complex than a typical motor vehicle accident.
At the Law Office of Ruben M. Ruiz, we understand the unique legal and insurance issues surrounding commercial vehicle accidents. Whether your injuries were caused by a company vehicle, delivery truck, utility vehicle, construction vehicle, or another commercial fleet vehicle, we are committed to protecting your rights and pursuing the compensation you deserve.
What to Do After a Commercial Vehicle Accident
The actions you take following a commercial vehicle accident can significantly affect both your health and your legal claim.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you feel well immediately after the accident, some injuries may not become apparent until hours or days later. Prompt medical treatment protects both your health and your legal claim.
Call Law Enforcement
Request that law enforcement respond to the scene. An official accident report can provide valuable evidence regarding how the collision occurred.
Document the Scene
If you are physically able, gather as much information as possible, including photographs of the vehicles, roadway, traffic signals, skid marks, debris, and your injuries.
Obtain Company Information
In addition to the driver's information, obtain the name of the company that owns or operates the commercial vehicle, the vehicle number, license plate, USDOT number (if applicable), and insurance information.
Speak with Witnesses
Independent witness statements can provide valuable evidence when liability is disputed.
Preserve All Records
Save medical records, repair estimates, receipts, photographs, correspondence, and documentation of any lost wages or other financial losses.
Contact the Law Office of Ruben Ruiz.
Commercial vehicle accident claims often involve corporate insurance carriers and complex legal issues. Early legal representation can help preserve critical evidence and protect your rights.
What Not to Do After a Commercial Vehicle Accident
Don't Admit Fault
Avoid apologizing or making statements that could be interpreted as accepting responsibility before the facts have been fully investigated.
Don't Give a Recorded Statement
The commercial vehicle's insurance company may contact you shortly after the accident. Before providing a recorded statement, consider consulting with an attorney.
Don't Accept a Quick Settlement Offer
Insurance companies often attempt to settle claims before the full extent of injuries and future damages is known. Early offers rarely reflect the true value of a serious injury claim.
Don't Delay Medical Treatment
Missing appointments or failing to follow your physician's recommendations may negatively affect both your recovery and your case.
Don't Discuss the Accident on Social Media
Insurance companies frequently review social media accounts in an attempt to minimize injury claims.
Don't Dispose of Evidence
Preserve photographs, damaged property, medical records, repair estimates, and any documents related to the accident.
Don't Attempt to Handle a Complex Claim Alone
Commercial vehicle accident cases often involve multiple defendants, extensive insurance coverage, and detailed investigations. An experienced attorney can help ensure your rights are protected.
Common Causes of Commercial Vehicle Accidents & Resulting Injuries
Commercial vehicle accidents can occur for many reasons, but they are often preventable. Driver negligence, inadequate vehicle maintenance, improper training, or violations of state and federal safety regulations can place everyone on the road at risk. Because commercial vehicles are typically larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, collisions frequently result in severe or life-changing injuries.
Some of the most common causes of commercial vehicle accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Driver fatigue
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Failure to yield the right-of-way
- Unsafe lane changes
- Improperly secured cargo
- Mechanical failures or poor vehicle maintenance
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Inadequate driver training
- Violations of state or federal safety regulations
- Poor weather or hazardous road conditions
These collisions often result in serious injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Concussions
- Neck and back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Severe lacerations
- Burn injuries
- Crush injuries
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Wrongful death
Because commercial vehicle accidents often involve significant injuries and multiple insurance policies, it is important to seek experienced legal representation as soon as possible.