Steps to Preserve Your Rights and Build a Strong Case After a Florida Truck Accident

Truck accidents can be overwhelming and life-changing events. The aftermath of a crash can leave individuals feeling confused and unsure about what to do next. If you have been involved in a truck accident in Florida, it is important to take specific steps to protect your rights and strengthen your case. The choices you make right after the accident can have a lasting impact on your ability to recover compensation for injuries and damages. At, Serrano Law , we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

After a truck accident, your health should always come first. Even if you feel fine or believe your injuries are minor, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries might not show symptoms right away but could still be serious. A medical professional can evaluate your condition and document your injuries, which can be helpful for your case. If emergency services arrive at the scene, let them assess your injuries. If you do not need immediate care, schedule a visit with your doctor shortly after the accident. By addressing your health promptly, you are also demonstrating that your injuries were a direct result of the accident.

Call Law Enforcement to the Scene

Contacting the police after a truck accident is an essential step. When officers arrive, they will create a crash report that includes important details about what happened. This report might describe the weather, road conditions, vehicle damages, and possible causes of the accident. It may also list the names of witnesses and the information of the drivers involved. Having this report can be an important part of building a strong case later on. Make sure to ask the responding officers how to obtain a copy of the report so you can share it with your attorney.

Michael Serrano

Founding Attorney

Candace “Cea” Hartley

Associate Attorney

Document the Scene of the Accident

If it is safe to do so, take time to collect information at the scene. Use your phone to take pictures of the vehicles, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area. Be sure to include traffic signs, skid marks, and anything else that might show what caused the crash. If there are witnesses, try to get their names and contact information. Their statements could provide helpful details about how the accident happened. Additionally, write down your own account of the events while they are still fresh in your memory. These details might seem small, but they can be very useful when piecing together the events leading up to the accident.

Avoid Talking About Fault or Apologizing

It is natural to feel shaken after a truck accident, but it is important to be mindful of what you say. Do not admit fault or apologize, even if you believe you played a role in the crash. These statements can be used against you later. Instead, stick to the facts when speaking with the police, other drivers, and insurance companies. Save detailed discussions about the accident for your attorney, who can help you determine what information is safe to share.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Contacting your insurance provider soon after the accident is another important step. Many insurance policies require that you report accidents within a specific timeframe. When speaking with your insurance company, be honest but careful about what you say. You do not need to provide a recorded statement or sign any documents without first consulting with your attorney. Insurance companies might try to settle quickly, but their goal is often to pay as little as possible. A legal professional can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Mike Serrano’s law office was everything I needed after a very traumatic accident. He was always super up front and honest with me. I never got the feeling he was trying to sell me on something or to do something that I wasn’t comfortable with. He listened to my concerns and when it tough moments came that I needed to stand my ground. He backed me and made me feel 100% secure. He got me exactly what I needed in a settlement and I would never consider using anyone else. His office staff is also phenomenal.”

- Mary

Mike Serrano was a great attorney for my case!! He was very flexible with phone calls/ Zoom meetings. His staff are always friendly, whether it be on the phone or emails. They keep you updated during your entire case! They don’t leave you silent for months. if you call, they always call back with updates! Highly recommend!"

- Kylie Collier Border

I’ve never had to deal with a lawyer before but Mike has set the bar HIGH. He was always available to communicate my concerns and explain each step of the way. I know no other lawyer would have been able to achieve the same results because he jumped on an opportunity that was a little out of the ordinary and it paid off. He really fought for my case and over delivered. I really hope I never have another accident but if I do I’m running to Mike for help."

- Sandy Carter

Preserve Evidence Related to the Accident

Keeping track of all documents and evidence related to the truck accident is essential for building a strong case. Save medical records, repair estimates, receipts for expenses, and any correspondence with insurance companies. If you miss work because of your injuries, keep records of your lost wages. This evidence can show how the accident has affected your life and help prove your case. It is also a good idea to keep a journal documenting your recovery process and how the accident has impacted your daily activities. These personal notes can add depth to your claim and provide a clear picture of your struggles.

Understand Florida’s Laws About Truck Accidents

Florida has specific laws that govern truck accidents, and understanding these laws can help you protect your rights. The state follows a no-fault insurance system, which means you may need to rely on your personal injury protection coverage for initial medical expenses. However, in severe cases where injuries meet certain thresholds, you can pursue a claim against the at-fault driver. Truck accidents can also involve complex rules about liability because trucking companies, maintenance providers, or manufacturers might share responsibility. Working with an attorney who is familiar with Florida laws can make navigating these complexities easier.

Be Careful When Dealing with the Trucking Company

After a truck accident, you may be contacted by representatives from the trucking company or their insurers. They may ask for a statement or offer a settlement. While it may seem like they are trying to help, their priority is often to protect their interests. Accepting a quick settlement might leave you without enough compensation to cover future medical bills or other expenses. Having an attorney handle these communications can protect you from making decisions that could harm your case.

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Work with an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney

A truck accident can involve many complicated factors, including large insurance companies and multiple parties who may be responsible. Hiring an attorney who understands how these cases work can make a significant difference. They can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurers on your behalf. A legal professional can also help determine the full value of your claim, ensuring that you receive compensation for all your damages, including medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Follow Through with Medical Treatment

After a truck accident, following your doctor’s advice is one of the best ways to protect your health and your case. Attend all scheduled appointments and follow any treatment plans. If you stop treatment too soon, it might suggest that your injuries were not as serious as claimed. By staying consistent with your care, you show the lasting impact of the accident and help build a strong case.

Case Results

Car Accident

This client was injured in an auto accident with a driver who improperly merged into her lane. Her vehicle was totaled. She sustained an aggravation of her pre-existing disc herniations in her neck and new disc herniations in her lower back. We obtained the full limits of both the at-fault driver’s bodily injury coverage and our client’s underinsured motorist coverage, which were significant. The settlement was achieved without a law suit and within four months after the client finished treating.

Rear End Collision

This particular client was injured in an accident in late 2015 when she was rear-ended. She sustained an aggravation of pre-existing disc herniations in her neck and a new disc herniation which ultimately required a surgical fusion. By the time of trial, her medical bills exceeded $180,000.00. The Defendants’ offer pre-suit was $20,000.00. We were able to obtain a jury verdict of $441,000.00, plus attorneys’ fees.

Car Accident

A client was injured in a rear-end collision where he sustained an aggravation of a pre-existing disc bulge that developed into a herniation in his lower back. We obtained a jury verdict which was over 6 times what had been offered prior to trial.

Car Accident

In this case, our client injured her shoulder after being struck by a vehicle while she was performing volunteer services. The driver was traveling at such a high rate of speed entering a parking lot that he clipped another vehicle, hit a parking barrier and was launched into a tree. After the client attempted to negotiate with the insurance company prior to hiring us, we were able to obtain an amount that was over double the prior offer.

Intentional Torts

Our client was injured from an assault by a patron of a party while working security. His shoulder required multiple surgeries. He hired our office to pursue a claim to recoup his medical bills, which exceeded $130,000.00. After his assailant offered him $10,000.00 to resolve his case, we took the case to a jury to decide. The jury awarded our client all of his medical bills and tripled his award for pain and suffering.

Car Accident

This client came to us about a car wreck that occurred in 2014 where she sustained injuries. She approached our firm just one week before the statute of limitations was set to expire after being turned away by several other law firms. We filed a lawsuit and were able to obtain the limits of the at-fault driver’s bodily injury coverage and an additional settlement from the client’s insurance carrier.

Truck Crash

This couple was injured in an automobile accident after they were rear-ended in a seven-car pileup caused by a semi-trailer. Of the 15 people who made claims on the same insurance policy, our clients each received the second and third highest offers, which covered all of their past and future medical bills and their attorney’s fees.

Truck Crash

In this case, our client was injured from a rear-end collision with an eighteen-wheeler. Her original lawyer procured a settlement offer of $7,000.00 to settle her case. Because the offer did not approach the amount of bills she incurred from accident related treatment, she came to our firm for a consultation. She decided to hire us. We promptly filed suit and obtained a settlement for her.

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Stay Patient Throughout the Legal Process

Truck accident cases can take time to resolve, especially when there are serious injuries or multiple parties involved. It is important to remain patient and allow your attorney to handle the legal process. They will work hard to secure the best outcome for your case. While it can be frustrating to wait, taking the time to build a strong case is often worth it in the long run.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Florida truck accident, Serrano Law is here to help. Our dedicated team understands how difficult this time can be and is committed to guiding you through every step of the process. We offer compassionate support and the resources you need to seek justice and compensation. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward recovery.