Your Central Texas Law Firm

How long could it take to resolve a truck accident claim?

On Behalf of | Nov 18, 2021 | Personal Injury |

A truck collision could leave the victims suffering from injuries that require extensive treatment and rehabilitation. The effects of a traumatic brain injury or broken bones might leave someone in a dire financial situation. Seeking compensation from negligent drivers for vehicle accidents makes sense for many Texas collision victims. While auto accidents are not necessarily straightforward to resolve, truck crashes might take even more time. Such collisions could become complicated to investigate and settle.

Issues arising with truck accident investigations

A minor truck accident that leaves one single collision victim suffering from property damages, such as a smashed rear fender, might move forward swiftly. A truck crash that leaves many victims injured may take much longer. A claimant would have to provide the court with proof of medical care and other losses to substantiate the claim. When dealing with a complex claim, it might take time to compile all the evidence, such as medical records and proof of lost wages.

Establishing negligence also becomes a vital step when the claimant sues the liable party. With truck crashes, there could be more than one person responsible for the crash. Both the truck driver and another vehicle’s driver could share the blame. Even the truck driver’s employer might face credible negligence claims if the employer’s negligence factored into the accident. Not enforcing mandatory breaks or disciplining bad drivers could be examples of negligence.

Dealing with insurance companies

A driver and the driver’s employer might have sufficient insurance to cover the losses. Negotiating with the insurance company may prove challenging even with a “cut-and-dry” case. With truck accidents, the insurance company might attempt to drag out the investigation or try to negotiate a low offer. Arriving at an acceptable insurance settlement amount could take time. That said, regulations exist to prompt an insurance company to perform its duties fairly and timely.

Suing above a liable party’s policy limits may be an option. When someone suffers significant losses, seeking a substantial settlement or judgment could become unavoidable.