Experiencing a truck accident in Jonesboro is life-altering, both physically and emotionally. In the chaos following a crash, what you choose to do, or not do, can have a major impact on your ability to recover damages, get proper medical care, and protect your future.
At Wells & Wells, we work side by side with individuals facing these hardships, helping them avoid common and costly mistakes after a truck accident in Jonesboro. Our focus is on supporting your recovery, simplifying the legal process, and making sure no stone is left unturned in your pursuit of justice.
Common Truck Accident Mistakes in Jonesboro
Victims of truck accidents frequently make choices in the aftermath that can weaken their potential claims. Keep reading to learn more about the common errors to avoid after an 18-wheeler accident in Jonesboro.
1. Admitting Fault or Apologizing After a Truck Accident
In the moments after a collision, it’s natural to want to apologize or accept blame, even if you’re not actually at fault. Unfortunately, Arkansas follows a modified comparative fault rule. This means if you are found 50% or more responsible for the accident, you may not be able to recover any damages. Even well-intended expressions like “I’m sorry” or guesses about what happened can be treated as admissions when insurance companies review your claim.
Instead of discussing fault, it is best to stick to verifiable facts when talking with law enforcement and others on the scene. Share only essential information and avoid making any statements about how the crash happened or who caused it.
2. Speaking to the Trucking Company's Insurance
It’s important to be cautious when dealing with insurance companies and trucking representatives after an accident. They may contact you quickly, requesting recorded statements or pressuring you into accepting a fast settlement.
While they may seem helpful, their goal is often to minimize the amount they pay out. Even a simple or offhand comment can be misinterpreted and later used to devalue or deny your claim. To guard your rights and avoid misstatements, it’s best to refer all communications to your legal team. An experienced attorney can make sure that your words aren’t used against you and that your best interests are represented throughout the process.
3. Failing to Gather Evidence at the Scene
Evidence is the backbone of any successful truck accident claim. When possible, document the accident scene as soon as it’s safe by taking photos, videos, and writing down details.
Be sure to document the following:
- Photographs of vehicle placements, truck markings, weather and lighting, traffic signals, nearby skid marks, and all visible injuries
- Notes about everything you remember from the accident
- Witnesses' names and contact information
- The truck driver's license, name, contact information, and employer details
In addition to scene evidence, collect medical documentation from your first treatment onward. This should include hospital records, emergency room reports, scans, test results, and ongoing treatment notes. Strong medical evidence not only strengthens your claim, but it can also support requests for current and future care expenses.
4. Posting on Social Media
After a truck accident, many people want to update friends or family on their recovery through social media. Unfortunately, anything you post about the accident, your injuries, or your day-to-day life can attract the attention of insurance adjusters and defense attorneys. Comments about your physical or emotional state, photos of activities, or status updates can be distorted and used to challenge your injury claims.
To protect yourself after a truck accident, consider the following social media precautions:
- Set all social accounts to private
- Avoid posting until your case concludes
- Ask friends and family not to tag you
- Consulting with your lawyer before posting anything that could be related to your accident
5. Not Seeking Medical Attention After a Truck Crash
Timely and thorough medical care is not only crucial for your health but also for building a strong claim after a truck accident. People may downplay their symptoms or wait days before seeing a doctor, not realizing that untreated injuries can become more severe and complicated. For example, injuries such as traumatic brain injuries can take hours or days to surface.
By delaying diagnosis, you lose the chance to document injuries that may arise later, which insurance companies often capitalize on to argue your condition is unrelated or not serious.
Consistent follow-up care is equally vital. Attending all follow-up appointments, completing recommended therapy, and following specialist referrals show that you are taking your recovery seriously. It's important to be proactive about scheduling and attending every medical appointment, documenting any new or changing symptoms.
6. Taking too Long to File a Truck Accident Claim
Arkansas law sets a three-year statute of limitations for most truck accident claims, starting from the date of the crash. If you fail to file within this timeframe, you could lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries or losses. Special timelines may apply if a government vehicle is involved or if the claim involves a minor, which can shorten or extend the deadline, making prompt legal action essential.
Beyond legal time limits, preserving evidence is a key reason to act quickly. Witnesses may relocate or forget details, and important evidence such as surveillance footage or crash reports can be lost or destroyed. While three years may sound like plenty of time, it can pass quickly, especially when you're focused on recovery. Acting early gives your legal team the best chance to build a strong case.
7. Accepting the First Settlement Offer From a Trucking Insurer
It’s common for insurance companies representing trucking companies to reach out with quick settlement offers. While these early offers may seem appealing, they often fail to account for long-term needs such as future medical procedures, lost earning potential, or ongoing pain and suffering.
Accepting a settlement before fully understanding the extent of your injuries can permanently limit your ability to seek additional compensation. In many cases, signing that initial offer means closing your case for good, even if your expenses increase later. That’s why you shouldn’t accept any settlement without first consulting an experienced truck accident attorney who can evaluate the true value of your claim and guard your rights.
8. Not Hiring a Truck Accident Lawyer
Not hiring a truck accident lawyer is another common mistake. Without an experienced legal professional to negotiate with insurance companies, advocate for your rights, and determine the full value of your compensation, you may make critical errors that complicate your case.
Navigating the legal process alone can be overwhelming and stressful, especially while you're trying to recover. Having the right attorney by your side means your claim can be handled properly and that you’re not shortchanged in the process.
Contact Our Team for Assistance
If you’re coping with the aftermath of a truck accident in Jonesboro, reach out to Wells & Wells as soon as you’re able. We’re equipped to spring into action, quickly collecting time-sensitive evidence and taking the burden off your shoulders. Let us handle your case while you focus on healing.
To schedule your free consultation or ask questions about your truck accident case in Jonesboro, contact our team at (870) 782-4084. We can stand by your side from start to finish.