When a trucking accident occurs, insurance companies act quickly. The moment a crash is reported, adjusters begin collecting details about what happened. They often reach out to the parties involved, request police reports, and gather any available photos or witness statements. According to our Raleigh, NC truck accident lawyer, these early steps help shape how they approach the claim and assess potential financial exposure.
Focus On Liability And Fault
Trucking claims typically involve serious injuries and significant property damage. As a result, insurance carriers pay close attention to who was at fault. They review driving logs, GPS data, maintenance records, and dashcam footage if available. Their goal is to identify anything that might reduce their client’s responsibility. In many cases, this means attempting to shift blame or argue shared liability. We’ve seen how aggressive they can be during this process, especially when multiple vehicles are involved.
Pressure Tactics Are Common
Another pattern we’ve seen in trucking claims is how quickly insurance companies try to settle. They may contact injured parties directly, offering a fast payout in exchange for a release of liability. These early offers often come before the full extent of injuries or long-term effects are known. Their goal is to limit the claim’s value before a lawyer gets involved. It’s not unusual for injured individuals to feel pressured or misled into accepting less than they deserve.
Valuation Of Damages Favors The Insurer
When determining how much a claim is worth, insurance companies rely on internal calculators, past claim data, and repair estimates. They factor in vehicle damage, medical expenses, lost wages, and potential future costs. But these assessments often fall short of what a court might award. They may downplay pain and suffering or argue that treatment was unnecessary. We’ve worked with people who initially received low valuations that didn’t reflect the true impact of the crash.
Legal Teams Get Involved Early
Unlike minor car accidents, trucking cases are rarely handled without legal involvement on the insurance side. Most large trucking companies carry policies through carriers with in-house legal teams or retain outside firms. This means that the insurance company is working with attorneys from the start, especially if they suspect litigation is likely. Their goal is to reduce or deny claims wherever possible, using every tool at their disposal.
Local Knowledge Matters In Serious Truck Accidents
Each state has its own rules about fault, insurance obligations, and how damages are calculated. If you’ve been injured in a crash involving a commercial vehicle in North Carolina or Southern Virginia, our legal representation can help level the playing field. We’ve seen firsthand how important it is to understand the laws in your state, especially when dealing with aggressive insurers and their legal teams.
Let’s Talk Before You Sign Anything
At some point after a serious truck crash, the insurance company will come calling. They may sound cooperative, but their goals don’t always align with yours. That’s why it’s important to have someone on your side. At Burton Law Firm, we’ve worked with injured clients across Georgia and know how to protect your rights. If you or someone you love is dealing with the aftermath of a trucking accident, reach out today for a free consultation. We’ll walk through what’s next together, with your recovery and future in mind.