Being involved in a truck accident can be stressful – as if it’s not enough that you have sustained injuries that need time and careful attention to heal, there is the compensation claim process to take care of. If you are at a loss what to do regarding the claim process, we lay it out for you step-by-step in this article.
The first thing to do after seeking medical help is to engage legal assistance. Not only are attorneys well-versed and experienced in the latest traffic laws and attaining the maximum compensation for clients, they can take a lot of the stress and pressure off your shoulders. Furthermore, many firms offer free initial consultations and in some cases, you do not even have to pay attorney fees until you have successfully attained a settlement.
After the accident, you can expect your insurance company to be in touch with you. However, it is important to keep in mind that if the insurance representative asks you a question you do not understand, direct them to your attorney immediately. Such questions may be a subtle way of getting you to admit liability for the accident, which will then allow the insurance company to reduce the value of your claim.
With the help of your attorney, you will start to gather evidence. Attorneys are invaluable in this process as they can obtain access to third-party information the general public may not be able to, such as the following:
- Medical records
- Cell phone records
- Expert witnesses
- Professional accidental reconstruction
- Driver’s logbook
This takes place between you and your insurance company and can start before you even have the chance to engage an attorney. Insurance companies will reach out with an initial settlement offer, which is usually way lower than what you are due. While you have the option to accept, engaging an attorney is a wiser option if you wish to receive a reasonable amount. Your attorney will counter the insurance company’s offer with a demand letter, clearly outlining all the expenses you have incurred with documentation as proof.
If both parties cannot agree on a compensation sum, a mediator may be engaged to help facilitate a resolution. This can work to your advantage as insurance companies would typically prefer to avoid any additional court fees, which is what the case will progress to if not resolved after mediation. If it goes to court, your attorney and the insurance company will take turns to convince the jury of the compensation sum you deserve, after which a verdict will be issued. Although it can be appealed, in most cases the verdict will be a final compensation order.
Now that you understand the lengthy process of the truck accident claim process, save yourself the stress by hiring a truck accident attorney. When you engage one of our experienced and competent lawyers at Corradino & Papa, LLC, you are significantly increasing your chances of receiving due compensation.
Disclaimer: Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.