Follow These Tips if You Have Been in a Trucking Accident

Trucking accidents have the ability to leave those who fall victim to them severley injured and even incapacitated. In an instant, the life you once knew may have changed forever. Amidst injuries and grief, it can be challenging to have a clear picture of how best to move forward. Following a trucking accident, you may be left to face costly medical bills, an inability to work, physical pain, and more. As a result, you surely will want to connect with a trucking accident lawyer for help in taking action. Following a trucking accident, here are some tips to take in order to safeguard your claim:

Tip #1: Gather as Much Information as Possible

In the wake of a trucking accident, it will be essential that you gather as much evidence as possible in support of your case. It may be challenging to do this if you have sustained serious injuries. This is where a trucking accident lawyer can come in to take the lead and help you to gather information surrounding your case. Gathering information such as:

  • Photographs
  • Videos
  • Police Reports
  • Eyewitness Statements
  • Medical Documentation

Tip #2: Do Not Speak with Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer

Although insurance adjusters may approach you in a friendly way, it’s important to keep in mind that they are not looking out for your best interest. Insurance companies are looking to pay out as little as possible to accident victims. Although they may approach you with questions, answering them without a lawyer can put you at risk of saying something that may mitigate the damages you are facing. It’s a good idea that you avoid speaking with insurance adjusters until you have a lawyer by your side who can help you field questions. 

Tip #3: Do Not Take the First Settlement Offered

Much of the time, it can be challenging to receive a low ball settlement offer from the insurance company. Unfortunately, this is a common tactic utilized by insurance companies. Although it can be disheartening, insurance adjusters are looking for you to accept the first offer to pay out as little as possible. A lawyer can guide you through negotiations by taking the lead and making sure that you receive the settlement offer you are entitled to. 

Tip #4: Make Sure Your Case is Properly Valued

When pursuing your accident case, it’s essential that your case has the proper value assigned to it. This can be especially challenging for an accident victim to do on their own. A truck accident lawyer can assist victims by reviewing all the details surrounding the case in order to make sure that you are asking for the compensation that you deserve. It can be challenging for an accident victim to see the road ahead, a lawyer can help with that by putting together a demand letter that encompasses your current and future losses, including any future care that an accident victim may require. 

The sheer size and force of a large semi truck make them the last type of monster you want to come head to head with on the road. Unfortunately, these types of accidents can occur, and sometimes they are the result of negligence on the part of the truck driver, truck manufacturer or even the trucking company. The process can be incredibly overwhelming, especially when determining who to hold accountable and how to pursue your case.