Trucking accidents are the most dangerous of all road mishaps. Sadly, they are common on American highways, and countless victims sustain injuries and lose their lives every year. But the silver lining is that victims can claim a much larger compensation value than a typical car mishap. Everything boils down to handling the claim well so that you have a strong case against the negligent driver and the trucking company. Let us share some expert legal insights on how you can maximize your compensation claim as a victim.
Understand the claim value you deserve
The sheer size of trucks is the reason why mishaps involving them tend to be more severe. Victims often suffer from grave injuries such as traumatic brain injury, spinal cord damage, fractures, and amputations. Unfortunately, loss of life is also common in such mishaps. As a victim, you may find yourself loaded with massive medical bills. Other forms of financial damage include lost wages, rehab therapies, and home modifications. You can claim these expenses and even add the cost of your pain and suffering to get the value you deserve.
Gather the key evidence
Compensation claims depend on your ability to prove the negligence of a guilty driver. In trucking mishaps, you can even hold a company liable for hiring unsafe drivers or failing to maintain their vehicles. But you must have adequate evidence to prove these facts. Remember to gather all the vital pieces from the accident site, from vehicle details to photos and videos, witness contact information, and police records. You may ask someone else to note the details if you are badly injured.
Look for a specialist legal expert
Nothing is more crucial than having a legal expert to represent you when it comes to maximizing your truck accident claim. Look for someone from the state where the mishap took place. For example, a Colorado-based attorney is the best person to help Determining Liability for a Truck Accident in Colorado if the mishap occurred in the state’s jurisdiction. Bring a lawyer on board sooner than later so that you have expert guidance during a settlement.
Avoid taking the first settlement offer
Since trucking accidents involve big companies, you end up settling a claim with a sharp legal team of a renowned insurance company. They may coerce or entice you into accepting a seemingly large amount as a settlement. But you must avoid taking the first settlement offer because it will probably be a lowball one. Also, taking it in a rush can be detrimental as some injuries may surface later. Let a lawyer handle negotiations on your behalf and opt for a trial if the offer is not good enough.
Start your claim at the earliest
The sooner you start your claim process, the better your chances of claiming apt compensation on time. Every state has a statute of limitations, and failing to seek compensation within this period means you may lose it altogether. Moreover, delaying the case can make it difficult to collect vital evidence to validate your claim. Contact an attorney right after the mishap to get the ball moving.
Trucking accident victims can claim larger compensation amounts, provided they follow the right process. Work on these tips to get enough to cover your losses and put your life on track again.
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