Unfortunately, commercial truck accidents remain a serious public health concern. The National Safety Council (NSC) reports that 117,300 large trucks were involved in injury crashes nationwide in 2021 alone. Dealing with the aftermath of a semi-truck crash is never easy. These companies are represented by aggressive insurance providers. At House Law LLC, we hold trucking companies and insurers accountable. Here, our Kansas City truck accident attorney offers six tips for dealing with the truck company’s commercial insurance company.
Know Their Role in the Process: Truck Company Insurer is Not on Your Side
As a starting point, it is crucial that you understand that the truck company’s insurance provider is looking out for their interests—not what is best for your family. Their primary goal is to minimize your payout. They may even deny compensation altogether. Get into the right frame of mind.
Decline to Give an Immediate Recorded Statement
Neither Missouri law nor Kansas law requires you to give a recorded statement immediately after a trucking accident to the trucking company’s insurer. Insurance adjusters may pressure you to give a recorded statement right after the accident. You should politely decline this request. Remember, they can use your words against you.
Avoiding Admitting or Accepting Fault for the Truck Accident
Even if you think you might be partly at fault, never express this to the insurance company. Fault matters in truck accident claims in both Missouri and Kansas. Being held even partially at fault for your accident can reduce your financial compensation.
Do Not Sign a Full Release for Medical Records (Without a Lawyer)
Insurance companies might ask for access to your medical records. When they have the right to access certain relevant medical records, they are not entitled to your entire medical history. You do not want to give an insurance company more records than they are allowed to get under the law.
Beware of a Quick and Lowball Settlement Offer
Insurers often offer a quick settlement to close the case cheaply and swiftly. These initial offers are usually far less than what you might be entitled to. Following a truck accident, you deserve compensation for property repairs, medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Work With Insurance Adjusters Through an Attorney
You do not have to take on the claims process alone. An experienced Kansas City truck accident attorney can handle all communications with insurance adjusters, build your case, negotiate better terms, and take action to help you secure the best results.
Set Up Your Free Consultation With a Top Kansas City Truck Accident Lawyer Today
At House Law LLC, our Kansas City semi-truck accident lawyers are committed to putting the time, resources, and attention to detail forward to help injured victims get the best results. Call us now or contact us online for a free review of your truck accident claim. We handle truck accident cases throughout the Kansas City metro area, including in Missouri and Kansas.
Tags: brain injury, personal injury, traumatic brain injury
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