Were you involved in a serious eighteen-wheeler crash in Baton Rouge or elsewhere in Louisiana? These can be dangerous, frightening accidents. A fully loaded tractor-trailer can weigh as much as 80,000 pounds (40 tons). The road to recovery can be long and daunting after a serious crash. It is imperative that truck accident victims are able to hold the trucking companies and its insurance providers accountable. At Babcock Injury Lawyers, we fight for the maximum financial settlement or verdict for victims and their families. Here, our Baton Rouge semi-truck accident attorney provides a guide for seeking compensation after a serious crash in Louisiana. 

Know the Steps to Take Immediate After a Semi-Truck Accident in Baton Rouge

Were you involved in a serious collision with an eighteen-wheeler in Baton Rouge, East Baton Rouge Parish, or elsewhere in the region? You need compensation. A proactive approach is key to protecting your rights and your interests. Here is what you should do after a crash:

  • Stop Your Vehicle and Exchange Information: You should stop your car and exchange contact and insurance details with the truck driver, including names, phone numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance policy information.
  • Call Law Enforcement to Report the Crash: In Louisiana, all truck accidents that result in injuries or major property damage should be reported to law enforcement, such as the Baton Rouge Police Department. 
  • See a Doctor (Medical Emergencies Take Priority): Seek immediate medical attention—especially if you sustained a serious injury. Your health is the top priority after a commercial trucking accident. Further, you need medical records to bring a claim. 
  • Document the Truck Accident: Take photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries to preserve evidence. You should also record details such as the time, location, and road conditions. Finally, be sure to get contact details for witnesses. 
  • Speak to a Lawyer Before an Insurance Adjuster: Insurance adjusters are not on your side after a serious trucking accident. Before you agree to provide any statement to an insurance company, you should speak to a Baton Rouge personal injury attorney. 

An Overview of Truck Accident Liability

Louisiana is a fault-based commercial truck accident state. The party who is at fault for causing a trucking crash can be held liable for the resulting damages. Negligent truckers and trucking companies must be held accountable. Every serious crash should be thoroughly investigated by a reliable lawyer. Under Louisiana law (L.S.A. C.C. Art. 2323), comparative negligence is applied to apportioned liability. A truck accident victim can recover compensation even if partially at fault. However, the compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if you are 20% responsible for a crash, you can only recover 80% of your damages. 

Be Proactive: Statute of Limitations for Truck Accidents in Louisiana

Semi-truck accident claims are time-sensitive. Under Louisiana law, there is a one-year statute of limitations for truck accident injury claims. It is among the shortest deadlines for injured victims in the entire country. Do not wait: Speak to a Baton Rouge truck accident lawyer as soon as possible after a major crash. 

You Deserve Full and Fair Financial Compensation After Truck Accident

Commercial truck accidents can cause serious, even life-altering injuries. It is imperative that truck accident victims are able to secure the maximum financial support. Unfortunately, trucking companies and their insurance providers cannot be relied upon to step up and offer full and fair financial support to injured victims. Our Baton Rouge truck accident lawyers can help. You may be entitled to recover a settlement or verdict that includes monetary damages for: 

  • Vehicle repairs; 
  • Emergency room care;
  • Hospital bills; 
  • Medical costs; 
  • Physical therapy; 
  • Loss of wages; 
  • Loss of future earnings; 
  • Pain and suffering; 
  • Disability; 
  • Disfigurement; and
  • Wrongful death. 

Four Tips for the Claims Process (How to Seek the Maximum Compensation) 

Semi-truck accident claims are complicated. Knowing how to manage the process can make all of the difference. Here are four tips to help you get in the best possible position to get the maximum financial compensation after a commercial trucking accident in Louisiana: 

  • Seek Immediate Medical Care and Document Your Injuries: Do not wait to see a doctor. Prompt medical attention ensures that your injuries are treated and properly documented. That is critical for your claim. You should keep detailed records of diagnoses, treatments, and medical expenses to establish the extent of your injuries. Medical evidence is key to securing the maximum financial compensation. 
  • Never Admit or Accept Any Fault Without a Lawyer: Fault matters in a truck accident injury claim in Louisiana. With that in mind, you should not admit or accept any degree of blame without first speaking to a Baton Rouge truck accident attorney. Avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be used against you in the claims process. Fault is a complex issue in truck accident cases. 
  • Be Patient in Truck Accident Settlement Negotiations: The big insurance companies that defend trucking companies want to settle claims for less. Insurance companies may offer quick settlements that undervalue your claim. Patience is crucial. They generally do not lead with their best and final offer. You have the right to negotiate for additional financial compensation. 
  • Work With Insurers Through a Baton Rouge Attorney: Do not go through the legal claims process alone. You need a high-level, experienced advocate on your side. A Baton Rouge truck accident attorney can manage all communications with insurance companies and protect you through every aspect of the personal injury claims process. 

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Top Baton Rouge Semi-Truck Accident Attorney Today

At Babcock Injury Lawyers, our Baton Rouge eighteen-wheeler accident attorney is standing by, ready to fight for your rights and your interests. If you have any questions about compensation for a truck crash, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a free, no-obligation initial case review. With an office in Baton Rouge, we handle truck accident claims throughout the wider region.