Being involved in a trucking accident can be a traumatic experience. Not only do you have to deal with the physical injuries, but you may also be left with emotional scars that can last a lifetime. But what happens if you don't realize the extent of your injuries until days, weeks, or even months after the accident? Can you still seek compensation? This blog post will answer these questions and provide you with the information you need to know about seeking compensation for a delayed injury after a trucking accident.
The Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations is a law that puts a time limit on how long you have to file a lawsuit after an accident. In most states, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two or three years. In Washington, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years. If you fail to file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations, you may not be able to recover any compensation.
The Discovery Rule
Some states have what is called a discovery rule. It allows you to extend the statute of limitations if you didn't know about your injury right away. For example, if you were in a trucking accident and developed chronic pain several months later, you may have more time to file a lawsuit. However, you need to prove that you didn't know about your injury and that it was not immediately apparent.
Related Reading
The Long-Term Health Consequences of Trucking Accidents
Proving Your Case
If you want to seek compensation for a delayed injury after a trucking accident, you need to prove that the accident caused your injury. This can be difficult, especially if there is no documentation of your injuries immediately after the accident. You'll need to gather evidence and medical records to support your claim. You may also need to consult with experts to prove that your injury was caused by the trucking accident.
Related Reading
A Guide to Truck Accidents
4 Pitfalls to Avoid After a Truck Accident
Hiring an Attorney
If you're considering filing a lawsuit for a delayed injury after a trucking accident, it's important to hire an experienced personal injury attorney. An attorney can help you navigate the legal system, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. They can also represent you in court if your case goes to trial.
Seattle Truck Accident Lawyers
Seeking compensation for a delayed injury after a trucking accident can be challenging, but it's not impossible. Our team of experienced Seattle truck accident attorneys at Carpenter & Zuckerman are here to help you through this difficult time. We understand the intricacies of truck accident cases, and we will fight tirelessly to ensure that you receive the justice and compensation that you deserve.
Our attorneys will work closely with you to understand the full scope of your situation, and we will use our knowledge and expertise to build a strong case on your behalf. Don't let the trucking company or insurance company take advantage of you–with our help, you can level the playing field and get the compensation that you deserve. We invite you to browse our client testimonials, case results, and truck accident-related resources to see for yourself why we’re the best choice for you.
To schedule a free initial consultation, call us at (425) 585-4009 or contact us online.