Truck accidents are among the most devastating. The size differential between full tractor-trailer hauling upwards of 80,000 and a passenger car is significant. For that reason, federal law has seen fit to heavily regulate the truck industry, passing laws that require trucking companies to perform inspections on their vehicles to ensure that they are roadworthy, hire qualified drivers, and restrict how long drivers can legally operate a truck.
Below, we’ll discuss truck accident claims, causes of truck accidents, and potential award figures.
Understanding Truck Accident Claims
In the majority of cases, you will be filing a claim against the individual truck driver’s or their company’s insurance policy. In cases where the trucking company committed some form of overt negligence, you may be able to sue them directly.
Filing a claim on a commercial driver’s insurance policy is not much different than filing a claim on any auto insurance policy. The most important part is having a lawyer look at your medical expenses, injuries, potential pain and suffering damages, and lost wages. If you hire a lawyer, we handle all communication between you and the commercial auto insurance agency. We collect medical records, come up with a fair number that compensates you for all your injuries, and make certain that you don’t accept a lowball offer that significantly undervalues your claim’s worth.
If you’re filing a claim against an insurance policy, the insurance company will review your claim and quote you a settlement figure. You should not accept this offer no matter how good it sounds. It’s just an opening number. A truck accident attorney will have a better idea of what your claim is worth and a stronger negotiating position with the insurance company.
Truck Accidents are on the Rise
Despite federal regulators limiting the number of hours a truck driver can operate a vehicle for, truck accidents in the United States continue to be on the rise. Some have attributed this to a shortage of truck drivers forcing companies to hire underskilled drivers to deliver large loads on a tight schedule. Some companies have been accused of using trainees to deliver these loads.
Additionally, trucking companies have a duty to ensure that their trucks are roadworthy. It is not uncommon for a dangerous or damaged truck to malfunction causing a serious accident. Problems with the tires are especially rampant.
Truck Accident Claims Involve Multiple Parties
In cases of mechanical failure, an investigation must be conducted to determine the source of the problem. In some cases, the trucking companies performed inadequate maintenance on their vehicles allowing a dangerous truck to leave for delivery and imperiling both their driver and other drivers on the road.
In other cases, you have a defective tire or another part that may have contributed to the accident. In these cases, it may be possible to sue the manufacturer of the defective part while naming the trucking company as a second defendant.
Truck Accident Claims Have Higher Settlements
Trucking companies carry large commercial policies with high policy limits. Trucks cause more damage to cars and their drivers than do smaller vehicles. If you are seriously injured, missing time from work, and require a period of rehab to get yourself back to work, it’s imperative that you speak to a truck accident claim attorney. We can ensure that you get the best possible settlement.
Talk to a Truck Accident Claim Attorney Today
Brylak Law is committed to getting each of our clients a fair settlement that compensates them for the totality of their injuries. If you have been severely injured by a commercial truck and need to file a truck accident claim, contact our offices today. We don’t get paid unless you win.
