If you’ve been injured in a collision involving an 18-wheeler or another large commercial vehicle, it is critical not to treat it like any other accident. Truck accident claims are often more complicated than a regular passenger vehicle crash and require the knowledge and resources that only an experienced Mississippi truck accident lawyer can provide.
Because truck accident victims are often forced to deal with severe injuries, extensive property damage, and multiple parties that could bear responsibility for the accident, it’s essential to hire a lawyer as soon as possible to get the process of seeking compensation started. Here, we’ll review the steps for a truck accident claim you and your lawyer will need to take when dealing with a severe injury accident caused by a negligent trucker, trucking company, or another entity.
Signing an Agreement with a Truck Accident Lawyer
The first step in the truck accident claim process is to meet with a truck accident lawyer. When you meet with an attorney, they can go over the facts of the case with you and determine whether you have a case for compensation.
If your truck accident lawyer believes you have a viable case and you want them to work on your case, you’ll need to sign a retainer agreement so they can officially represent you. Before you sign an agreement with an attorney, make sure you fully understand what you agree to, especially regarding what fees your lawyer will charge.
Communication with Your Attorney
Once you’ve hired a semi-truck accident attorney to represent you, much of the hard work is behind you. Your lawyer can now handle the bulk of the work related to your case while you focus on getting treatment for your injuries.
However, it’s essential to keep your attorney in the loop throughout the claim process. In general, you should refer anyone who wishes to speak to you about the accident — doctors, insurance adjusters, etc. — to your attorney. That way, you won’t accidentally say or do anything that could jeopardize your case.
Collection of Evidence
While you’re resting and recuperating, your truck accident lawyer will begin gathering evidence to support your case, such as:
- Police accident reports
- Photos from the crash scene
- Eyewitness accounts
- Medical records
- Data from the truck’s black box
This information can help determine who is liable for your injuries and what compensation you may be able to recover. This is one of the most time-consuming steps of the process, as you want a strong case before you proceed.
Send the Personal Injury Demand Letter
After your attorney has gathered the necessary evidence to support your claim, it’s time to send a demand letter to whatever party or parties are liable for your injuries. This letter will include a basic description of the case, as well as the compensation you are seeking for your injuries.
Proceed Toward Settlement or Trial
The next step in the truck accident process is settlement negotiations between your lawyer and the insurance company. Settlement negotiations can be lengthy, as your lawyer will be fighting for fair compensation while the other side will be fighting to pay as little as possible for your claim.
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, it’s time to prepare for a civil trial. Should your case go to trial, you will work closely with your attorney to develop a clear, convincing courtroom strategy.
Contact a Jackson Truck Accident Lawyer Now
The truck accident attorneys at Derek L. Hall, PC have more than 25 years of experience serving those who’ve been hurt in Jackson and throughout Mississippi. When you reach out to us, we’ll provide you with an honest, straightforward evaluation of your case, your rights, and your legal options. Call us, chat with us live, or fill out a contact form now to get started.
