What to do after a truck accident?
 

NewsPersonal Injury18 Wheeler Accidents – I Feel Like I Was Hit by a Mack Truck, What Do I Do?

January 6, 2025

The aftermath of a collision with an 18-wheeler can be one of the most frightening experiences of your life. The sheer size and force of a big rig—often compared to being “hit by a Mack truck”—can leave you rattled, hurt, and unsure of what to do next.

If you find yourself in this situation, remember that our Florida truck accident lawyers are here to help you get back on your feet. Below, we’ll explain the steps you should take, the questions you might have, and why legal help can be a critical part of your recovery.

What Makes 18-Wheeler Accidents Different?

Accidents involving 18-wheelers are quite different from regular car crashes for several reasons. First, these massive vehicles weigh up to 80,000 pounds when completely loaded, compared to the 3,000-4,000 pounds a typical car weighs. That extra weight turns even a low-speed accident into a serious collision that can cause major damage to your car and serious injuries to you and your passengers.

Another difference is the difficulty of legal issues. With a regular car accident, the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage is often the only factor. However, with 18-wheeler accidents, you may have to deal with large trucking companies, commercial insurance policies, and multiple parties, including the driver, the truck owner, and possibly the freight company. This is why it’s wise to seek professional advice from a law firm that’s experienced in truck accident cases.


Collision of a semi truck with box trailer a passenger car on the highway


Should I Seek Medical Attention Right Away?

Yes. Getting medical attention as soon as possible is one of the most important steps after any vehicle accident in Florida, especially one involving a large truck. Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask symptoms of injuries. You might have hidden issues, like a concussion or soft tissue damage, that get worse over time. By visiting a healthcare provider promptly, you protect both your health and your legal rights.

Here at Consumer Law Attorneys, our Florida truck accident lawyers know that medical expenses can pile up quickly. That’s why we work tirelessly to ensure that the responsible parties—and not you—shoulder the financial burden for these costs. It’s also why we encourage clients to see a doctor early on. Getting an accurate medical record now can help prove later that your damages are tied to the accident.

Who Could Be Held Responsible for My Accident?

One confusing aspect of 18-wheeler accidents is figuring out who is at fault. Is it the driver? The trucking company? The manufacturer of the vehicle’s parts? Or maybe a combination of all three?

Any of these parties could be liable if they played a role in causing the accident. For instance, if the driver fell asleep because of strict deadlines set by the employer or if brake failure occurred due to faulty maintenance, liability can quickly become complicated.

This is where having legal counsel matters. A skilled attorney can investigate the accident thoroughly, gather evidence (such as driver logs, maintenance records, and witness statements), and pinpoint who should be held responsible.

You shouldn’t have to deal with finger-pointing between multiple parties when you’re simply trying to recover from your injuries. Our Florida truck accident lawyers are committed to sorting out these details so you don’t have to.

Why Are Truck Accident Injuries So Severe?

A collision with a semi-truck often involves high impact, which can lead to a range of severe injuries—head trauma, spinal cord damage, broken bones, or extensive cuts and bruises. Not only are the injuries themselves more serious, but the road to recovery is often longer and more expensive.

On top of physical damage, you might face emotional trauma. It’s common for people who survive truck accidents to experience PTSD, flashbacks, or difficulty driving again. Handling the emotional aftermath can be just as important as healing the physical wounds. That’s why we believe in a holistic approach at Consumer Law Attorneys: ensuring you get treatment for the emotional side effects and being there to guide you through the entire legal process so you can focus on getting better.

What If the Trucking Company Contacts Me?

If the trucking company—or its insurance representative—calls you for a statement, you should be cautious. Anything you say could be used to challenge your claim later.

It’s completely acceptable to decline to comment until you consult with a Florida truck accident attorney. In fact, it’s often in your best interest to let your lawyer handle all direct communication. This way, you avoid unintentionally saying something that might weaken your case.

What If I Can’t Afford a Truck Accident Lawyer?

Choosing the right lawyer can seem overwhelming, especially when you’re worried about finances. But don’t let fears about legal fees keep you from getting the help you deserve.

At Consumer Law Attorneys, we stand on the principles of Fair & Affordable Pricing. Our Florida truck accident lawyers strive to make sure that legal services are within reach for those who need them. We work on a contingency basis, which means you don’t pay anything unless we win or settle your case.


A wooden gavel sits on a wooden table in a courtroom. A truck is blurred in the background, suggesting a legal case involving a truck.


How Do I Protect My Rights Moving Forward?

Here are 4 key actions you can take to protect yourself after an 18-wheeler accident in Florida:

  1. Seek Medical Treatment: Get checked out immediately, even if you feel “fine.”
  2. Notify Your Insurance Company: Tell them promptly, but stick to the facts. Avoid speculation about fault.
  3. Consult an Attorney: Talk to an experienced lawyer before giving official statements to trucking company representatives.
  4. Keep Records: Save all bills, repair estimates, and medical reports related to the accident.

These steps can strengthen your case and help you move toward a fair resolution.

Contact Our Florida Truck Accident Attorneys

If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident, don’t let the stress of medical bills, lost wages, and negotiations with insurance companies overwhelm you. Reach out to Consumer Law Attorneys for experienced guidance and unwavering support.

Contact us today at (877) 241-2200 for a free consultation with our Florida truck accident lawyers. Let our dedicated team handle your case so you can focus on healing and moving forward. You don’t have to go through this alone—trust us to fight for your rights, secure fair compensation, and stand by your side every step of the way.



    *Disclaimer: The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.