Do I Need a Truck Accident Attorney?

Truck accidents can cause serious injuries and property damage. Other motorists and passengers injured in car accidents often pay the price when that accident involves a tractor-trailer. Serious injuries can make it difficult to go back to work, leaving you with expensive medical bills.

Many drivers regret trying to handle their semi-truck accident claim without a lawyer. A truck accident lawyer can fight for you to get compensation for your injuries. Contact one today for more information about your rights.

When Do I Need a Truck Accident Lawyer?

In an ideal world, the truck driver who caused the accident would make sure to pay for all your damages, including medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. In the real world, you probably need a lawyer to get the right amount of compensation for your damages.

Even when a big rig driver was responsible for the accident, the trucking companies will usually deny all responsibility and try to blame you for the crash. If you try to fight back, the trucking companies and insurance companies will use their expensive legal teams to make sure you get as little as possible. There is no reason you shouldn’t have someone on your side to fight for you.

The trucking industry may change their tune when they find out you hired an experienced truck accident lawyer. A good trucking accident lawyer can level the playing field to put you in the strongest position to recover the money you deserve.

Do I Need a Lawyer If My Insurance Is Handling the Accident?

It is important to understand the role of your auto insurance company, which will generally handle your accident claims, including property damage and injury claims. However, the insurance company is also interested in its own profits. They may make a settlement offer, but it may not be enough to cover your injuries.

In a serious trucking accident, victims may have to end up fighting both their own insurance company and the trucking company responsible for the accident.

A trucking accident lawyer is different. A lawyer has an ethical duty to act as your advocate. They will try to get the best outcome for you, including negotiating a fair settlement or taking your case to court if necessary.

What Can a Truck Accident Lawyer Do for Me?

In truck accidents, your lawyer can help in several ways. Immediately after hiring an attorney, they can take all the pressure off you, so you can focus on getting better.

Deal Directly With the Insurance and Trucking Companies

No one likes dealing with insurance companies. It can be tough to get in touch with a human being, and the insurance adjuster may treat you like they are doing you a favor. But insurance adjusters are always on the lookout to get you to say something they can use to deny your claim. You can avoid all this by hiring an attorney to be your point of contact with the insurance company and trucking company.

Negotiate To Get a Higher Settlement

Most truck accident cases end with a settlement. A settlement is an agreement to accept a certain amount of money to release your legal claims. Beware of any initial settlement offer. Even if it seems like a lot of money, the insurance company may be trying to get you to accept less than your personal injury case is worth. Before accepting any settlement, make sure you understand your rights.

Your attorney has experience with truck accident claims and may have a good idea of a fair settlement amount. Remember, the settlement should take into account all your losses, including any losses you may suffer in the future, like additional medical treatment or loss of earning capacity. You still have the right to accept or deny any settlement offer but your lawyer can usually negotiate a higher amount.

Take the Truck Company to Court

If settlement negotiations don’t work and the trucking company isn’t cooperating, it may be time to take your case to court. A personal injury lawsuit is your chance to take your case to the people. Your attorney can use the lawsuit to review the trucking company records, the truck’s black box, driver training records, accident history, police reports, and witness testimony to build a strong case.

Your attorney can present your case directly to a jury to let them decide how much the trucking company has to pay. If the jury finds the truck driver liable, they will be legally responsible for paying for your damages.

Enforce the Judgment Against the Trucking Companies

One of the frustrating parts of a lawsuit is that even after you win, the trucking company may not want to pay. You may have to take additional legal action to collect your claim. Your personal injury attorney has experience with making sure you get paid.

Nothing To Lose With a Free Case Evaluation

If you’re still unsure if you should hire an auto accident lawyer, think about what is at stake. A motor vehicle accident can lead to severe injuries, including chronic pain, limited range of motion, and permanent disability. If you lost a loved one in a trucking accident, there could also be funeral expenses and immeasurable emotional pain to deal with as well.

You have nothing to lose with a free initial consultation. During an initial case review, you can talk to a wrongful death or personal injury lawyer about your case. You can ask any questions you have to understand how they will fight for you.

The attorney will explain your legal rights, options for a settlement or truck accident lawsuit, and how much your case might be worth. Find a truck accident attorney to get you the compensation you deserve.