A semitractor-trailer truck accident is one of the most dangerous encounters a motorist can have. These usually serious collisions are responsible for injuring over 100,000 people every year in the United States, and due to the trucks’ large size and weight, these injuries are often devastating.
Trucking collisions also cause property damage totaling in the billions each year. But obtaining financial compensation for injuries and damage caused can be a complicated endeavor. Take a look at what you need to know if you have been involved in a trucking accident.
Accident Investigation is Essential
Whenever a truck is involved in an accident, the trucking company involved sends an insurance adjuster to the scene. This representative is tasked with evaluating the accident scene, identifying key witnesses and important evidence, and protecting the interests of both the trucking and insurance companies.
Victims of semitractor-trailer truck accidents need to protect their own rights and interests by conducting separate investigations. If you are the victim of a collision of this nature, you typically must work with your own insurance company. Soliciting the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney is also necessary to ensure a thorough investigation of the accident on your behalf. These professionals can help you obtain financial compensation for your injuries and property losses, but you’ll need to begin your investigation quickly to preserve evidence that could help prove your case in court.
Finding the Cause of a Trucking Accident
In order to receive a fair financial settlement from the commercial insurance carrier, or to be awarded damages in court, if it comes to that, you must be able to prove the cause of the accident. Commercial truck accidents are often the result of defective truck parts. They can also be caused by the trucking company’s negligence in providing their drivers with safety and defensive driving training. Some trucking collisions happen because drivers feel pressured to meet unrealistic schedules. And, of course, driver error is a factor in many such incidents. Whatever the cause, you must able to prove it to recover compensation for your injuries and property damage.
Getting the Compensation You Deserve
The trucking company’s commercial insurance carrier may offer you a settlement out of court. In many cases, however, insurance companies deny wrongdoing on the part of the trucking company or the driver. After all, these accidents cause serious injuries and extensive property damage, and admitting fault can cost the company a great deal of money. In order to receive fair and just compensation for the accident, you may need to take your case to court.
A personal injury attorney can help you hold the trucking company or other responsible party accountable for your injuries and any property damages. If you have been involved in a trucking collision and need compensation, contact an attorney who is experienced in handling semitractor-trailer truck accidents. Schedule a free consultation today with the professionals at the Montgomery Dowdle Law Offices. They will explain the process, review your case and assist you in obtaining a fair settlement for your truck accident.