A serious 18-wheeler truck accident can be a life-altering experience, resulting in severe injuries and mounting medical bills. In the aftermath, victims are often uncertain whether they need to hire a McKinney truck accident attorney for support. While you might assume you can file a claim and receive fair treatment, the reality can be very different. If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, here’s why you should never handle the claim alone.
Top Reasons You Need a Truck Accident Attorney for a Claim
Mistakes made after an auto accident can put your health and finances at risk. Experienced attorneys will guide you through the entire process of making a claim while overcoming the following challenges.
Truck Accident Claims Are Complex
Truck accidents are more complex than car accidents, potentially including multiple liable parties such as the driver, trucking company, leasing companies and vehicle manufacturers. Attorneys will need to investigate whether rules regarding hours of service, maintenance and mandatory rest periods were followed. Additionally, factors like jurisdiction and the circumstances of the collision can play crucial roles.
Truck Accident Evidence Must Be Preserved
Gathering information is one of the essential steps to take after a truck accident. To support your claim, evidence should be collected and carefully analyzed. Evidence can include electronic logging devices, truck maintenance records, driver logs, dash cam footage, witness statements and so on. Attorneys ensure this information is preserved by sending spoliation letters to relevant parties.
Insurance Companies Use Aggressive Tactics
Insurance company tactics can undermine your claim within days of the accident if you’re not protected. An initial call may try to frame the events to suggest you were at fault, or shared responsibility. Alternatively, you could receive a minimal or reduced settlement offer before you know the full extent of your injuries. A truck accident attorney will recognize these potential traps and ensure you take a strategic approach with insurance companies.
Victims Often Underestimate the Value of a Case
The long-term costs of a truck accident can be far higher than you anticipate. Whether it’s the ongoing costs for surgery and rehabilitation, loss of wages, or diminished earning capacity due to permanent injuries, it’s easy to underestimate the full impact. Attorneys experienced in these types of claims and lawsuits understand how to accurately calculate these costs and negotiate compensation from a position of strength.
Trucking Companies Have Strong Legal Teams
Large trucking companies have in-house counsel or retain law firms that send investigators to the accident scene. These teams gather evidence favorable to the company that may undermine your claim. Victims may also face aggressive litigation tactics or legal technicalities that can reduce the settlement amount. Without an experienced personal injury attorney to support you, your claim could face significant challenges.
Experienced Truck Accident Attorneys in Collin County
For dedicated assistance navigating an auto or truck accident claim, speak with the attorney team at Lucé Law, PC. We represent clients in Collin County who have been injured in truck accidents caused by negligence. Call (972) 632-1300 or request a free legal consultation.
