When you’re in a crash with a commercial vehicle, like an 18-wheeler or delivery truck, the damage can be serious, and so can the legal and insurance challenges that follow.
Dealing with commercial truck insurance claims is very different from a regular car accident. These claims often involve large trucking companies, aggressive insurance adjusters, and complicated policies.
This guide explains what to expect after a commercial vehicle accident and how to protect your case from the very beginning.
For personalized advice, please contact Attorney Tyler Monahan, partner at Turner-Monahan, PLLC, to discuss your case.
Why Are Commercial Vehicle Insurance Claims More Complicated?
When an accident involves a commercial truck, such as a big rig or delivery van, several things make the situation more complex:
- More parties may be involved – The driver, the trucking company, the cargo company, and others may all share blame.
- Higher insurance limits – Because injuries in commercial truck crashes are often severe, trucking companies carry large insurance policies. This means more money is at stake, and insurance companies will fight harder.
- Aggressive defense teams – Large commercial insurance providers have legal teams trained to limit payouts.
- Strict federal and state rules – Commercial vehicles follow different safety standards, logbook requirements, and weight limits, which may impact your case.
What Insurance Companies Do After a Commercial Vehicle Crash
Insurance companies act fast after a crash. Their goal is to reduce the amount they have to pay. Here’s what they usually do:
Send investigators to the scene quickly
They may collect their own evidence before victims even think about legal help.
Delay or deny claims
Some companies try to run out the clock or give vague reasons for denying claims.
Blame the victim
They may try to shift the fault away from the commercial driver and onto you.
Offer low settlements early
Before you know the full cost of your injuries, they may offer quick money to close the case.
Request recorded statements
These can be used against you later. You are not legally required to provide one without legal counsel.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Commercial Truck Accident
The actions you take after a commercial vehicle crash can make or break your case. Here’s what to do:
1. Call 911 and Get Medical Help
Your health comes first. Even if you feel fine, some injuries show up later. Get checked out right away.
2. Document the Scene
- Take photos of vehicles, road conditions, and injuries.
- Get contact info of witnesses.
- Write down everything you remember while it’s fresh.
3. Do Not Admit Fault
Even saying “I’m sorry” can be twisted and used against you later.
4. Contact a Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer
A skilled attorney knows how to deal with insurance companies and protect your rights. Do this as early as possible.
5. Send a Spoliation Letter
This is a formal letter your lawyer sends to the trucking company to prevent them from destroying or hiding important evidence, like dashcam footage, driver logs, and truck maintenance records.
Evidence That Can Make a Big Difference
When building a strong case, your lawyer will try to collect evidence such as:
- Driver’s logs and rest records
- Black box data from the truck
- Inspection and maintenance records
- Driver’s training and background
- Cargo details and load information
- Surveillance or dashcam footage
This is why it’s critical to act quickly. Some of this evidence can be legally destroyed after a certain time if you don’t ask to preserve it.
For thoughtful, trial-tested representation from someone who truly understands what injury victims face, contact Attorney Matthew T. McLain at Turner-Monahan, PLLC.
Common Insurance Tactics to Watch Out For
Even if the truck driver was clearly at fault, you may run into pushback like:
- Claims that the driver was an independent contractor
- Arguments that your injuries were pre-existing
- Pressure to settle before all medical treatment is done
- Attempts to get you to sign a release form too early
An experienced commercial vehicle accident attorney knows how to fight these tricks.
Why You Need a Lawyer After a Commercial Truck Crash
This is not a situation where you want to handle things alone. A good commercial truck crash lawyer will:
- Investigate the accident thoroughly
- Deal with the insurance adjusters so you don’t have to
- Help you get proper medical care
- Fight for full compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages
At Turner Monahan PLLC, our 18-wheeler attorneys and commercial truck accident lawyers have the experience to go up against big insurance companies and protect your rights.
Whether it’s a car accident, defective product, or serious injury, Matthew T. McLain brings the skill and compassion you need. Reach out today to discuss your case.
Protect Your Case from Day One – Talk to Turner Monahan PLLC
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash involving a commercial truck, time is critical. Evidence can disappear fast. Insurance companies may already be building their case. You need someone in your corner.
Turner Monahan PLLC is here to help. Our commercial vehicle accident attorneys know how to handle these cases from start to finish.
Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with our Fort Worth personal injury attorneys, Tyler Monahan or Matthew McLain, to discuss your case and explore your options. Let us help you achieve the justice and compensation you deserve.
Disclaimer
The commentary and opinions are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to provide legal advice. You should contact an attorney in your state to obtain legal advice concerning any particular issue or problem. You can become a client and enter the attorney-client privilege only after hiring Turner-Monahan, PLLC, by signing a written retainer agreement.
