How to File a Claim Against a Trucking Company

Trucking companies are often held accountable when tractor-trailers cause devastating injuries and damages. Despite the substantial number of severe truck accidents, trucking companies continue to pressure truckers to work excessive hours, leading to accidents. They may also fail to make necessary repairs to tractor-trailers and otherwise act negligently regarding the safety, maintenance, and operation of commercial vehicles. 

Fortunately, when you have an experienced truck accident lawyer, you can demand the trucking company be held accountable for their recklessness. Here is more about how truck accident claims work and how to pursue justice for your damages.

When Trucking Companies Are at Fault 

Trucking companies are frequently found liable for tractor-trailer accidents for a number of reasons. First, trucking companies are responsible for the actions of their truck drivers through vicarious liability. Truck drivers should be properly vetted, drug tested, and trained before being hired. 

When trucking companies fail to uphold their obligations, they can allow unskilled and irresponsible truckers to operate big rigs, increasing the likelihood of traumatic collisions. Trucking companies are also responsible for the care of their tractor-trailers. Trucking companies should be held accountable when they fail to make necessary safety repairs, conduct safety inspections, or ensure truck drivers have access to the tools they need to operate the big rig safely.

Suppose the trucking company involved in your case was negligent. In that case, your attorney will gather the evidence needed to prove as such when you file a personal injury lawsuit or insurance claim against them. Although suing a trucking company can make your case more complex, it also increases the likelihood that you will be able to recover the compensation you are owed.

How the Truck Accident Claims Process Works

One of the top reasons more truck accident victims do not file suits against the trucking company is that they are overwhelmed and intimidated. However, trucking companies are counting on getting away with paying out as little as possible on claims or avoiding liability altogether. Thankfully, having a reputable truck accident attorney fight for your rights can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. 

We are not afraid to go up against negligent trucking companies and will do everything possible to bring them to justice. With that in mind, it is crucial to understand how the truck accident claims process works before you file a truck accident claim. Although every person’s case is different, the steps to hold a company accountable are generally the same for each case.

You Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer 

First, make sure you hire a truck accident attorney. When you have been involved in a collision with an 18-wheeler, your injuries are likely catastrophic. Even if they are less critical injuries, your recovery may require your full attention and energy so you can regain as much function and mobility as possible and start to move forward with your life. 

This can be more difficult if you are also trying to pursue a truck accident lawsuit alone. When you have a truck accident attorney working for you, you do not have to worry about anything other than healing.

We Conduct a Thorough Investigation to Determine the Fault 

Once you hire a qualified truck accident law firm, their first step will be conducting an in-depth investigation into the cause of the collision. Trucking accidents can happen for any number of reasons, but some of the most common include:

• Dangerous road conditions
• Drunk driving collisions
• Failure to perform necessary safety inspections
• Fatigued driving accidents
• Improper handling of the 18-wheeler
• Improperly secured or loaded cargo
• Jackknife accidents
• Speeding
• Tire blowouts
• Truck part malfunctions

Many times, not only are trucking companies held accountable, but truck drivers can be sued as well. Anyone carrying a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is held to a higher standard than individuals carrying a traditional driver’s license. This is partly because 18-wheelers are so much larger than standard motor vehicles and are, therefore, far more likely to cause catastrophic injuries and deaths.

Your Truck Accident Attorney Calculates the Value of Your Claim

After your attorney has determined whether the trucking company shares liability for your injuries, they will need to calculate the value of your claim. Your lawyer must review your economic or financial losses and non-economic damages to determine how much compensation you are entitled to. Examples of potentially recoverable damages for truck accident victims include:

• Disfigurement
• Emotional distress
• Loss of consortium
• Loss of income
• Medical bills
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability
• Vehicle repairs

We File Insurance Claims and Negotiate with Adjusters

When your attorney determines how much compensation you should be paid, they can move forward with insurance claims and potentially a civil lawsuit. Most truck accident claims are settled without going to court, as the trucking company knows they will be expected to pay far more if your case goes to trial.

Most trucking companies will also have insurance coverage that will cover certain types and amounts of damages. The compensation you can recover through the insurance company will be based on how much coverage the trucking company carries. 

If the trucking company does not have enough insurance coverage to cover every loss you suffered, moving forward with a truck accident lawsuit may be appropriate and necessary. Your personal injury attorney will be ready to file the civil claim and present evidence at trial so you can maximize your financial compensation.

Call in the Strong Arm and Schedule Your 100% Free Consultation Today

A trucking company must be held accountable for their actions when they are negligent. Despite countless insurance claims and civil lawsuits, these corporations remain responsible for the critical injuries and deaths of motorists and passengers nationwide. 

Call in the Strong Arm in Georgia to demand maximum compensation for your losses. Meet with a dedicated truck accident lawyer at John Foy & Associates and access the financial support you need and when you need it most. Our firm proudly offers no-cost, risk-free consultations to truck accident victims across Georgia. Claim yours when you call our office or fill out our quick contact form.