Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Truck Accident
Minnesota’s roads and highways are vital for transporting goods across the Midwest. From icy winters to busy interstates, the state sees thousands of commercial trucks on the move daily. Unfortunately, with heavy traffic and unpredictable weather, truck accidents are not uncommon—and when they happen, the consequences can be devastating.
After such an accident, the steps you take (and the mistakes you avoid) can have a major impact on your recovery and your legal rights. If you’ve been involved in one, consulting with Minnesota truck accident lawyerscan make a big difference in protecting your interests and ensuring fair compensation.
Many truck accident victims unintentionally hurt their own cases by making avoidable mistakes. These missteps can reduce the value of your claim, delay your recovery, or even cost you your right to compensation altogether. Here are some of the most common mistakes to steer clear of after a truck accident in Minnesota.
- Not Calling the Police
Even if the crash seems minor, you should always call law enforcement to the scene. A police report serves as an official record of the accident, detailing who was involved, when and where it happened, and what the officer observed. Insurance companies and courts rely heavily on this document when determining fault.
Failing to file a police report can weaken your case and give the trucking company or its insurer an opportunity to dispute your version of events later.
- Failing to Get Medical Attention
Truck accidents often cause serious injuries—some of which may not be immediately apparent. Internal injuries, concussions, or soft tissue damage can take hours or days to show symptoms. Seeing a doctor as soon as possible not only protects your health but also creates medical documentation linking your injuries directly to the crash.
If you delay treatment, insurers may argue that your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim or that they were caused by something else.
- Admitting Fault or Apologizing
In the chaos after an accident, it’s natural to want to apologize or downplay what happened. But even a simple “I’m sorry” can be twisted into an admission of guilt. Avoid discussing fault at the scene or with insurance representatives. Stick to the facts—who was involved, what happened, and whether anyone was hurt.
Let your attorney handle discussions about liability and responsibility.
- Speaking Directly to the Insurance Company
Insurance companies—especially those representing trucking companies—are not on your side. Their goal is to minimize payouts, not to ensure you’re fairly compensated. After an accident, adjusters may call you asking for statements or trying to get you to accept a quick settlement.
Never give a recorded statement or sign any documents without first consulting your lawyer. An experienced Minnesota truck accident lawyer knows how to handle these negotiations and will ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way.
- Not Gathering Evidence
The scene of a truck accident can quickly change once vehicles are moved and debris is cleared. If you’re able, take photos or videos of the vehicles, license plates, road conditions, skid marks, and your injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses and note any security or traffic cameras nearby.
Even a few clear photos can make a big difference in proving fault later on.
- Waiting Too Long to File a Claim
Minnesota law limits how long you have to file a personal injury claim after a truck accident. Waiting too long could mean losing your right to compensation entirely. Contacting an attorney as soon as possible ensures that critical evidence is preserved and that all legal deadlines are met.
Key Takeaways
- Always document the accident: Get a police report and gather as much evidence as possible.
- Seek immediate medical care: Early treatment protects your health and strengthens your claim.
- Avoid admitting fault: Even innocent statements can harm your case.
- Don’t deal directly with insurers: Let your lawyer manage all communications.
- Act quickly: Time limits apply, so contact a lawyer as soon as you can.
