Filing A Truck Accident Claim
Accidents involving large trucks are some of the most serious that take place on America’s roads and highways. They often result in fatalities and catastrophic injuries because of the sheer size of these vehicles. Drivers of commercial vehicles are insured differently than other drivers are. Many insurance companies who provide automobile insurance also provide commercial auto insurance. Those who own small businesses or work for large corporations can get insurance for company vehicles such as 18-wheelers, dump trucks, tow trucks and more. There is owner operator insurance, motor carrier insurance, or private carrier insurance. Trucking companies and companies who own trucks must make insurance filings in order to prove that they meet both state and federal insurance requirements.
Those who participate in interstate trucking, hazardous material transportation, and contract trucking have different requirements for filing, as they each present a different level of liability. Most trucks are required to provide physical damage coverage, cargo insurance, and liability insurance. This will cover the cost of damages in the event that you are involved in an accident with a commercial truck. If you are a driver of a passenger vehicle and are involved in a collision with a commercial truck, then the claims process is similar to filing a regular auto insurance claim. First, you must report the incident to your insurance company, then an adjuster will assess the damages in relation to your insurance policy as well as the insurance policy of the trucking company.
Common Causes of Trucking Accidents
Trucks are one of the leading causes of motor vehicle fatalities annually. Extreme caution must be taken, because one slip can mean a severe accident. Trucking companies can be liable for negligent hiring practices if they hire someone who has obtained a fraudulent license or has a poor driving record. Licensing fraud is actually a huge issue in the trucking industry. Currently, arrests have been made in 13 states and investigations are pending in 24 other states. Truck accidents are also commonly caused by fatigue, since they work such long hours. Despite federally-mandated resting periods, truckers are still prone to tired driving accidents. Truckers may also be at fault for negligent driving practices similar to those common with passenger vehicle drivers such as speeding, excessive lane changes, and other moving violations. Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, and other mechanical failures may also present a liability on behalf of the truck driver or company.
What to Do to Maximize Your Recovery
The insurance company will often offer you a settlement that is less than what you believe you need to cover the cost of damages. One important thing to remember is to ask your insurance company for reasons. They should be able to articulate to you why they offered you the amount that they did. The trucking company may be claiming that you were partially at-fault for the accident, which would significantly deduct from the amount that you can be compensated. This is where procuring the services of an Austin truck accident attorney can come in. An attorney can not only assist you in filing all the necessary forms with your insurance company, but they can also ensure that you are not wrongfully deemed liable. Contact Zinda Law Group today to learn more about how our truck accident lawyers can assist you in negotiating the recovery amount after your accident with a truck. Call 800-863-5312 for help today.
