An accident with a DHL truck can leave you feeling distressed and overwhelmed. After experiencing such a traumatic event, you may not know what to do next. Nonetheless, to receive fair compensation, it’s important that you take the proper steps.
So what should you do if you get into an accident with a DHL truck? In short, you should report the accident, seek medical attention, and contact a Lafayette truck accident lawyer.
What Steps Should You Take After a DHL Truck Accident?
There are certain steps you should take after a DHL accident to maximize your odds of receiving fair compensation. They are as follows:
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- Report the Accident: Contact the police and file an accident report. This report will serve as an official record, which will be critical to your case.
- Gather Evidence: Collect information at the scene, such as the truck driver’s contact and insurance details, photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Obtain Witness Information: If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact information. Their statements may support your claim.
- Seek Medical Attention: Check yourself and others for injuries. If you’re hurt, seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurance provider to report the accident. Be sure to provide the police report and any evidence you’ve collected.
- Contact a Lawyer: Reach out to a Lafayette personal injury lawyer who can guide you through the legal process and protect your interests.
Laborde Earles injury was great for me they took care of me very fast and professional. If for any reason I need legal help they will be who I use.
ClientWhat to Not Do if You’re in an Accident with a DHL Truck
In the wake of a DHL truck accident, avoid doing the following:
- Admitting Fault: Avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Stick to factual information when speaking to police or insurance adjusters.
- Leaving the Scene of the Accident: If you drive away from the scene of the accident, you may face legal consequences. In addition, the other party may claim you’re responsible.
- Delaying Medical Treatment: Failing to seek medical attention can weaken your case and jeopardize your health.
- Negotiating Directly with DHL: Insurance companies and corporate representatives may try to minimize payouts. Let your lawyer handle communication on your behalf.
- Speaking with the At-Fault Party: Don’t respond to calls from the at-fault party or their insurance company. If you do, they may try to persuade you to admit fault or accept an unfair settlement.
- Posting About the Accident Online: Social media posts can be used against you in legal proceedings. Try to keep the details of the accident private.
I thank God for Digger & David. I don’t know what we would have done if it hadn’t have been for them.
Rick Smith | ClientHow Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a DHL Truck Accident?
In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims varies depending on the date of the truck accident. If it happened on or after July 1, 2024, the statute of limitations is two years. If it occurred before July 1, 2024, the statute of limitations is one year.
Failing to file within your state’s statute of limitations may result in you losing your right to seek compensation. For this reason, it’s important to consult a truck accident lawyer promptly.
The reassurance from Digger and his staff gave me that renewed hope that it’s going to be okay down the road.
ClientHow Is Fault Determined After a DHL Truck Accident?
When determining fault in a DHL truck accident, the following factors are considered:
- Driver Negligence: Was the driver speeding, distracted, or violating traffic laws? Evidence such as the truck’s black box data and driver logs can help establish negligence.
- Employer Liability: DHL may be held responsible for the actions of their driver if they failed to enforce proper training or maintain the vehicle.
- Vehicle Maintenance Records: Poor vehicle maintenance can contribute to accidents. Reviewing these records can reveal negligence.
- Third-Party Negligence: Other parties, such as cargo loaders or parts manufacturers, may share liability if their actions or products contributed to the accident.
They treated us like no other people would. Whenever we needed something they were there for us. I put my trust in them and I don’t regret it.
ClientWhat Types of Damages Can I Recover from a DHL Accident?
If you’re injured in a DHL truck accident, you may be entitled to the following types of damages:
Economic Damages
Types of economic damages include:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Punitive Damages
In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded.
What Is the Average DHL Truck Accident Settlement?
The settlement amount for a DHL truck accident will depend on factors such as the severity of the victim’s injuries, the degree of fault, the victim’s financial losses, and the limits of the at-fault party’s insurance policy.
Since every case is different, there is no average settlement for a DHL truck accident. Generally speaking, settlements can range from tens of thousands to millions of dollars. A truck accident lawyer can provide a more precise estimate.
Why Should You Work with a DHL Truck Accident Lawyer?
Hiring a DHL truck accident attorney can greatly improve your odds of securing fair compensation. Here’s how they can help:
- Evidence Collection: A lawyer can gather critical evidence, including accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimony.
- Negotiation: A lawyer can handle negotiations with insurance companies and corporate representatives to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
- Representation in Court: If your case goes to trial, a lawyer can advocate on your behalf to maximize your compensation.
- Peace of Mind: With a lawyer managing your case, you can focus on your recovery.
Contact a Lafayette Truck Accident Law Firm
Truck accidents can be traumatizing. If you’ve suffered physical and/or emotional damage, you may not know what to do after being hit by a DHL truck.
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Louisiana, the experienced personal injury lawyers at Laborde Earles can help you understand your rights, build a strong case, and pursue the settlement you deserve.
We work on a contingency basis, meaning you won’t have to pay any fees unless we win your case. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Lafayette DHL truck accident lawyer.
