The Steps Involved in the Average Truck Accident Claim

A truck accident usually occurs through the fault of the drivers of the truck or because of a mechanical fault. No matter the cause of the truck accident, it can be devastating. The reason is that victims of the truck accident experience severe injuries. Some die from the impact, some may not be able to go about their normal lives, and properties may get destroyed. 

In such instances, victims of truck accidents need the services of experienced truck accident attorneys to help them, especially when they are pursuing truck accident claims. With these truck accident claims, victims can get compensation for the pain or loss they have suffered. 

So, what are the steps involved in the average truck accident claim?

Evidence Collection

This is the first step when pursuing a truck accident claim. Investigations should be done into the truck accident and evidence obtained, which will help the claim. The truck maintenance records to determine if the accident was a result of a technical malfunction, driver logs to know the driver behind the wheel, damaged guardrails, eyewitness testimonies, photos, and video evidence, etc., will help the claimant. 

It is often best to report the truck accident to the police so that there will be a police report available to back up your claims. If you go to court to get medical treatment for the injuries sustained from the truck accident, there should be medical reports available as part of the evidence.

Determining Liability

The next step is determining who is liable for the accident. This determination of liability is possible based on the evidence that was collected when the truck accident was investigated. It could be one of the parties or both parties that caused the truck accident. 

Besides the drivers of the vehicle being liable for the truck accident, the insurance company, trucking company, or the driver’s employee can be held liable to pay the damages.

Reaching Out to a Truck Accident Lawyer

The third step in an average truck accident claim is reaching out to a truck accident lawyer. It is this attorney that will help protect your rights. They will negotiate on your behalf and ensure that you do not sign any agreement or document that is not favorable to you. 

Some claimants sign contracts without going through them carefully, which makes them settle for less than they would get for compensation. So, the lawyer should be the one in communication with the insurance companies, the defendant, etc.

Proper Negotiation With the Appropriate Party

After a personal injury demand letter that clearly outlines the damages and compensation you want has been sent to the insurance company or the liable party, it is up to you to negotiate well with the help of your truck accident attorney. 

The liable party will offer a settlement, but you must ensure that you back up your claim for a fair settlement with evidence.

Settlement or Trial

Sometimes, negotiating out of court for your truck accident settlement is impossible, so go to court for trial. It should be a last resort because of how time-consuming it can get, but it will help you get a fair settlement for the accident you went through.

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