It’s inevitable that you will be contacted by an insurance company after a car crash. When a semi-truck is involved in the incident, the insurance companies and headaches can multiply quickly.
Your first thought is for the health and safety of your passengers and yourself, but the insurance companies have their client’s bottom line in mind (and their own). The most important thing to remember is that no matter how nice, supportive, or caring an insurance adjuster seems, they are not your ally.
Important Thoughts to Remember
Naturally, focusing on healing after your accident is your number one focus. Let us point out a few thoughts to keep in mind as you begin to deal with insurance companies.
Find an Attorney You Trust
While you and your loved ones are getting the medical care you need, the insurance companies are working on the case. Since Oklahoma is an at-fault state, meaning the driver responsible for an accident carries the financial liability, insurance companies will waste no time trying to settle the case.
Insurance adjusters are experienced, skilled professionals who have been highly trained. They often have the experience of dealing with dozens of wrecks similar to yours and are responsible for saving the trucking companies money. Their job is to successfully negotiate on behalf of the insurance company and pay you the least amount possible.
Multiple Insurance Companies Will Be Involved
In a trucking accident, determining who is at fault is a complex process, and everyone who could be at fault likely has their own insurance company. That includes the:
- Driver
- Owner of the truck
- Tractor owner/policyholder
- Trailer owner/policyholder
- Cargo owner
In addition, there could also be indemnity agreements between any combination of these parties. If you’ve hired an experienced law firm like Laird Hammons Laird, you can focus your time and energy on healing while your lawyers handle assigning fault and answering the phone for the insurance companies.
Keep Detailed Records of Your Medical Care
Keep a detailed list of your medical costs including doctor visits, medical treatments, and any equipment required. Economic damages include all of these expenses, future medical costs, and income lost from missing time at work. With the help of expert attorneys and their team, like those at Laird Hammons Laird, you’ll get the compensation you deserve for all your medical expenses.
You Don’t Have to Say Anything
When the insurance company calls after your accident, you don’t have to give them a statement. You don’t have to sign anything immediately or record your side of the story. Trucking accidents can be very costly for insurance companies and they are eager for a settlement, even before the total cost of the incident is apparent.
It is natural and expected for you to be emotional after an accident, so if you do find yourself talking with an insurance adjuster before you hire an attorney, be polite. Also, be clear that you won’t be sharing much information during the phone call. Set clear limits on what information you’re comfortable sharing and explain that your lawyer will handle the rest as soon as possible.
You Are the Victim, Not Them
Just because you are the victim does not mean you are helpless. Do not let large and experienced insurance companies encourage you to settle for less than what you need. You and your loved ones have lives to rebuild.
If you or someone you love has been involved in a trucking accident, reach out to us at Laird Hammons Laird. We’ve got the experience and skills to make sure you’re taken care of and able rebuild your life.
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