Working with a Vancouver Truck Accident Lawyer
Commercial truck accidents make for some of the most devastating auto accidents to date. If you were involved in a truck accident in Vancouver, Washington, you probably have first-hand knowledge of how damaging they can be. While it can be hard to act quickly after such a traumatic event, contact a qualified trucking accident attorney as soon as possible. Cases involving commercial vehicles can be complicated. An experienced auto accident lawyer knows the necessary steps to take after an accident involving a commercial truck or car.
Have a Truck Accident Lawyer Deal With the Insurance Companies
One of the first steps taken following an auto accident is contacting the insurance companies. However, there are some things to consider. Firstly, always remember the insurance company’s job is to reduce the amount owed for the claim against them. For this reason, only provide the insurance company with the necessary details (e.g., the truck company name). For specific legal reasons, you should also refrain from signing any paperwork until you speak with an auto accident attorney.
The same goes for any organizations or contractors calling about the claim after the accident. If the information isn’t pertinent to the damage to your car or truck, don’t pass it along to anyone but your lawyer. For instance, they may ask questions like what you or the driver were doing before the accident or your vehicle’s mechanical history (e.g., maintenance history). Avoiding these questions may weaken any case they try to build against you.
Contact a lawyer immediately after reporting the incident. They will make sure you receive the proper attention and compensation for your pain and suffering.
Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Vancouver, Washington
A truck accident can have many potential causes. However, the primary reason behind a commercial trucking accident is even more vital when going up against a business. Common causes include:
- Negligence on the driver’s behalf
- Improper driving due to conditions
- Mechanical failure
- Trouble slowing
- Exhaustion
Each of these problems can stem from either the driver’s behavior or the company’s policy. It’s important to understand the circumstances behind the accident. Keep this in mind when reporting the incident to your lawyer. This will strengthen your case and ensure that the company has to address the violation in question.
Documentation for your Truck Accident
As with any auto accident, you should not under any circumstances apologize for the event. Doing so may qualify as an admission of guilt, which can only hurt you. You should, however, take photos of the incident before anything changes if at all possible, as doing so will help the case against the truck company in question.
The state of Washington may also have specific reporting requirements. For example, some states require you to report the accident to the DMV. Make sure that you take all of the necessary steps before proceeding with your case. Failure to do so can result in a weaker lawsuit. An experienced trucking accident lawyer can walk you through this process.
Personal Injury Claim in Vancouver, Washington
As the victim of a trucking accident, you should know what kind of compensation and/or settlement you can expect for your claim. There are three main types of payout that you may receive after a commercial auto accident:
- Medical and mechanical compensation – If you have any medical or repair bills, you can expect partial or total coverage from the company.
- Paid time off – If you have to take time off from work to recover, or if you’re unable to get to work because of the damage to your vehicle, you may request compensation for the missed time.
- Pain and suffering – As with any auto accident, the recovery process can be traumatic and grueling. You deserve some form of compensation for your pain and suffering.
Naturally, the accident’s circumstances will dictate your compensation for the accident. For example, if you are considered responsible in part for the crash, your payout will be lower than if the driver and the company are deemed fully liable.
At Fielding Law Group, our auto accident attorneys in Vancouver, Washington will work to get you the proper representation and compensation for your trucking accident. Our attorneys will be with you every step of the way. To alleviate the financial burden while you heal, we don’t get paid unless you win. Trust our truck accident lawyers to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact your nearest Fielding Law Group office to start your free case review today.