Commercial truck accident claims are a hot topic in law, as insurance is a big part of a legal case after a crash. Knowing the similarities between a standard car accident claim and understanding the key differences between the kinds of claims is crucial for victims to understand.
In a commercial vehicle crash, specifically those with large work vehicles or semi-trucks, injuries and damage are often severe. This means insurance claims are almost always extensive and can look very different from those in a standard car accident. However, there are a few key areas where the claims process looks the same.
How are commercial truck accident claims similar to car accident claims?
First, any accident triggers a call to the police and your own insurance company. You’ll also need to get in touch with an accident lawyer. These are crucial steps to take immediately after a collision. Why do these calls matter?
A police report can be important during the insurance claims process.
Whether you’re dealing with commercial truck accident claims or standard car accident claims, a police report is a vital piece of evidence. They are an objective source of vetted information for all parties involved, and provide a scope and sequence of the accident and resulting damage.
Your own insurance company needs to be involved as soon as possible.
While your own insurance company isn’t responsible for covering the actions of the driver or employer in commercial truck accident claims, they are responsible for making sure you’re taken care of. That means calling them ASAP after your accident is a necessary step! You have the option to file under your Personal Injury Protection coverage, which can, in some cases, offer compensation for medical needs and other covered losses.
An accident lawyer advocates for your needs during commercial truck accident claims.
Commercial vehicle accident claims require an experienced lawyer!
Another similarity to standard car accidents is the need for an accident lawyer immediately after your crash. Reach out to an attorney quickly! It means they will be on your case and advocating for your needs early in the process. This (usually) means a better outcome for you.
The above similarities are important to consider. However, it’s equally important to know and understand the differences when filing a claim after a commercial vehicle accident.
What are the main differences between commercial truck accident claims and car accident claims?
One of the primary differences between car accident claims and commercial truck accident claims is the types of insurance coverage. In Florida, commercial vehicles must carry higher minimums of coverage. These minimums vary. They’re based on the kind of commercial vehicle, the cargo, and whether or not the vehicle travels across state lines. If these commercial trucks are traversing states, they fall under federal liability limits.
Insurance minimums essentially impact how much money is allotted to those injured in accidents. Commercial truck accident claims usually provide greater compensation because injuries and damages with these vehicles are more severe.
Commercial truck accident claims and those for standard car accidents also vary in the type of lawyer you need. For commercial vehicle collisions, you should look for an attorney with commercial accident experience.
Why?
- Commercial vehicle accident lawyers understand federal and state requirements for these larger vehicles, drivers, and their employers
- Commercial truck accident attorneys have experience in juggling multiple at-fault parties at once (the driver, the employer, the owner of the truck, etc.)
- A commercial vehicle accident attorney can give you a better estimate of compensation based on their previous cases and settlements
The above reasons give you the criteria needed for making an informed decision when choosing a lawyer to represent your case.
Brooks Law Group helps you handle commercial truck accident claims after your crash.
In Tampa Bay, work truck accidents and commercial vehicle crashes are common occurrences.
As some of Central Florida’s most trusted accident attorneys, our team is ready and able to fight for your rights when filing commercial vehicle accident claims. We have years of experience battling insurance providers and trucking companies, going to bat for those injured, and getting the compensation they desperately need. You don’t have to worry about expensive legal fees with our firm. Our contingency fee means you don’t pay unless we win, and our free consultations are risk-free to you as you begin the lawsuit process.
With offices in Tampa, Winter Haven, and Lakeland, we’re proud to serve a long list of Central Florida communities with the best legal services. When you’re facing a trucking company negligence case, Look to Brooks.
