If you suffered injuries in a truck collision that was not your fault, you expect the negligent trucker’s and trucking company’s insurance company to treat you fairly and pay you the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Unfortunately, this may not happen. They could try to deny your claim without a valid reason or try to force you to accept less damages in your settlement.
You should not be surprised if they begin negotiations by offering you a low settlement of far less money than you are entitled to under Virginia law. Here are five steps you need to take to protect your rights.
#1: Retain a Lawyer
Your first step should be to retain a knowledgeable truck accident attorney. They will collect the evidence you need to win your case and fight with the insurance company so that they take your claim seriously and settle it fairly.
#2: Determine Your Claim’s Value
In order to know whether a settlement offer is too low, you need to understand how much your claim is worth. You will need the assistance of a lawyer to accurately determine how much compensation you should receive for your past and future medical expenses, lost wages, property damages, and pain and suffering.
#3: Find Out the Reasons for the Offer
You have a right to know the reasons that the insurance company is offering a low-ball settlement. This will help you determine whether they have a valid reason for making the offer or are trying to save money by paying you less compensation—which is often the case in truck crash claims.
#4: Collect Evidence and Continue Negotiations
Once you know the reasons behind the insurance adjuster’s offer, your attorney can collect additional evidence to refute their arguments that they are only liable to pay you a small settlement amount. This can help your lawyer convince them to pay you all the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
#5: Litigating Your Claim
If the insurance company refuses to be reasonable or the statute of limitations, which is the deadline you have to sue, will expire soon, your attorney will need to file a lawsuit and litigate your claim. Your case will most likely be settled at some point in the litigation process before your jury trial. However, it could take longer than you would like for the insurance company to increase their offer enough for you to accept it.
Contact a Norfolk Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If a loved one or you were injured in a truck accident in Virginia Beach or Norfolk, our experienced truck accident attorneys are here to fight for your rights. To learn how we can assist you, call us at 877-960-3441 or fill out our online form to schedule your free initial no-obligation consultation today.
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