The aftermath of a truck accident is vastly different from the days and weeks following a car accident. This is true in a personal sense for victims, and from a legal standpoint. A truck accident brings many more legal considerations and accident victims typically suffer much greater injuries and damages. Victims are also often offered a settlement right away, which limits their right to pursue a claim for full damages if it is accepted. If you have been hurt, the main reasons to hire an injury lawyer after a truck accident are outlined below.
The Trucking Industry is Heavily Regulated
Truck drivers must follow all the same rules of the road as other drivers. However, there are additional rules truck drivers, and the companies they work for must adhere to as well. Truck drivers must register with the Department of Transportation and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. These organizations have certain requirements for the trucking industry that include the following:
Accident victims are not always aware of these laws, so it is difficult for them to know when a truck driver or trucking company has violated them. A personal injury lawyer with experience in trucking accidents, on the other hand, is well-versed in these laws and will use them to determine liability.
A Personal Injury Lawyer Will Conduct an Investigation
An investigation is always required after any accident case. However, conducting an investigation after a truck crash is always difficult, particularly when you are trying to recover from your injuries. A personal injury lawyer will have the knowledge and experience to determine which party’s negligence caused the accident and will know how to collect evidence to prove it. An experienced lawyer will also know how to send a preservation letter, demanding that the truck company retains their records, which they are not legally required to do.
Dealing with Many Insurance Policies
When two cars are involved in a crash, there are typically only two insurance policies involved. Truck accidents can involve a number of insurance policies, though. The trucking company may have a policy, the truck driver may have their own insurance policy, and in certain cases, even the cargo loading company may have yet another policy. These different insurers will all try to shift the blame to each other, or even to the driver of the smaller vehicle. A lawyer will determine which insurer is liable and hold them responsible for paying the damages you deserve.
Injuries are Much More Serious
Truck accidents cause some of the worst injuries on the road. Retaining a lawyer will ensure you receive the medical treatment you need, and that you understand the full extent and nature of your injuries before accepting a settlement. This is the only way to make sure you receive the fair settlement you deserve and that you will not be left paying out-of-pocket expenses on your own.
Our Wisconsin Truck Accident Lawyers Can Provide the Legal Advice You Need
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a truck accident, our Oak Creek truck accident lawyers at Martin Law Office, S.C. are here to assist with your case. We have the necessary experience to go up against truck drivers and other liable parties to help you secure the full damages you deserve. Call us today at 414-856-4010 or contact us online to schedule a free case consultation.
