Bart Durham Personal Injury News & Blog

What to Know About Settling a Truck Accident Claim

Written by Bart Durham Injury Law | Sep 22, 2023 10:31:17 PM

For anyone involved in a big truck accident, the path to obtaining rightful compensation can be a winding one. As these accidents often involve greater damages and complexities than typical vehicular collisions, it's essential to understand the intricacies of settling a big truck accident claim.

At Bart Durham Injury Law, our team is well-versed in the nuances of truck accident claims. Let’s dive into some frequently asked questions and provide clarity on key aspects of the settlement process.

How Much Should my Settlement Be?

The amount you should settle for after a big truck accident isn't a simple, straightforward number. Several factors influence this amount:

  • Fault Determination: Was the truck driver entirely at fault? Or was there shared liability? The settlement amount often hinges on this.
  • Total Damages: This includes both tangible damages, like medical bills and vehicle repairs, and intangible ones, such as pain and suffering.
  • Expertise of Your Attorney: A seasoned truck accident attorney can effectively negotiate and often secure higher compensation.
  • Insurance Policy Limits: The insurance policy of the liable party can also dictate the maximum compensation available.

How Long Can a Truck Accident Claim Take to Settle?

The timeline for settling a truck accident claim varies widely, depending largely on the complexity of the case. Two significant determinants are the severity of the truck accident and the thoroughness required in the liability investigation.

Severity of the Truck Accident 

The severity of a truck accident plays a pivotal role in determining the duration required to settle a claim. More severe accidents typically result in extensive physical injuries, substantial property damage, and sometimes even fatalities. These complexities entail a more comprehensive investigation, demanding a thorough review of medical records, accident reconstruction, and consultations with multiple experts. 

Additionally, as the stakes are higher in severe accident claims, insurance companies often scrutinize every detail before agreeing to a payout, leading to prolonged negotiations. All these factors combined mean that claims for severe truck accidents generally take longer to reach a resolution compared to less severe incidents.

Liability Investigation

Determining liability in a truck accident can be a meticulous process. Investigators not only consider the immediate events leading up to the collision but also broader factors.

Was the truck driver in compliance with regulations, such as rest breaks? Was the truck adequately maintained and safe for the road?

Furthermore, the size, weight, and type of cargo can also play a role in the accident and the subsequent investigation. All these facets can make the liability determination phase longer than one might expect.

Negotiating With Insurance Companies

Once liability is pinned on the truck driver or another entity, the negotiation phase commences. Here, the expertise of your truck accident attorney becomes invaluable, because insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts.

A skilled attorney understands this dynamic and works diligently to ensure you receive a fair settlement, reflecting the full spectrum of your damages.

Hire a Truck Accident Attorney For Your Case

Navigating the labyrinth of a truck accident claim without legal expertise can be daunting. It's more than just getting compensation; it's about ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.

At Bart Durham Injury Law, we advocate for accident victims in Tennessee and Kentucky. Our seasoned team is committed to securing the best possible outcome for you.

If you or a loved one has been impacted by a truck accident, don’t navigate this journey alone. Reach out to us today and let our expertise guide you to justice.