A vehicular collision involving a heavy-duty truck and machinery has resulted in a road closure on Highway 17 within Winter Haven's boundaries. In the early hours of Friday, June 23, 2023, this accident occurred and effectively restricted passage on a segment of Highway 17, more specifically near Ave K SW.
Winter Haven's law enforcement authorities have reported that a truck loaded with hefty machinery is causing obstruction in the southbound lanes. The highway remains inaccessible as authorities await the arrival of a specially equipped tow truck that can handle the task of clearing the accident site.
The local populace is requested to circumvent the affected area for the time being. At this juncture, no further details about the incident have been divulged.
What to Do After a Crash with a Semi-Truck in Florida
If you find yourself involved in a crash with a semi-truck in Florida, it's crucial to take immediate action to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights. Here are some important steps to follow after such an incident:
Ensure Safety
First and foremost, prioritize your safety and the safety of others involved. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic and turn on your hazard lights.
Contact Authorities
Dial emergency services or the local police to report the accident. Provide them with accurate information about the location, the number of vehicles involved, and any injuries sustained.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don't feel any immediate pain or visible injuries, it's advisable to seek medical attention. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a medical evaluation can help identify and document any underlying conditions.
Exchange Information
Exchange contact and insurance information with the truck driver and any other parties involved in the crash. Gather details such as names, phone numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance policy information.
Document the Scene
If it's safe to do so, take photos or videos of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, the damage caused, and any visible injuries. This evidence can be valuable when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.
Identify Witnesses
If there were any witnesses present at the scene, try to obtain their contact information. Their statements may provide valuable support for your case later on.
Avoid Discussing Fault
Refrain from admitting fault or discussing the details of the accident with the other party involved or their insurance representatives. Stick to sharing factual information with the police and your own insurance company.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with accurate details and cooperate fully during the claims process.
Consult with an Attorney
Consider seeking legal counsel from an experienced personal injury attorney who handles truck accidents. They can guide you through the complex legal procedures and help protect your rights.
Remember, every crash with a semi-truck is unique, and the appropriate actions may vary depending on the circumstances. It's always wise to consult with professionals who can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.
By following these steps, you can ensure your well-being, gather essential evidence, and begin the process of seeking compensation if necessary.
Do You Need to Speak to a Florida Semi Truck Accident Attorney?
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in an accident involving a semi truck, 18-wheeler, tractor trailer, or any other commercial vehicle, you should speak with a skilled, experienced, and aggressive Florida truck accident lawyer as soon as possible because you may be entitled to compensation. Please don’t hesitate to contact us on our website, or you can call our Orlando, Florida personal injury law firm today at (321) 352-7588 to schedule your free consultation by phone. When you schedule a consultation at our law firm, you will get a consultation with a truck accident lawyer, not a customer service representative or intake person.
If you need a South Carolina personal injury lawyer, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at (843) 638-6590. We have at least one lawyer licensed in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. So, if you’ve been injured in the Southeast, we may be able to help you. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
For more information on truck accidents, you can download our free e-book: 10 BIG Questions You Need Answered After a Truck Accident.
Disclaimer: Nothing in this article is meant to be a guarantee of results. Past case results do not guarantee future case results. Each case is unique. The information in this article has been gathered from various sources on Google. Thus, we cannot guarantee there are no inaccuracies herein. We can and will correct or remove this post upon request. You can email us at [email protected]. Finally, the information contained in this article is not meant to be legal advice in any way. If you have legal questions, you should contact an attorney.