By Gravis Law
Truck crashes can turn your life upside down in a flash. If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a big rig wreck in Kennewick, WA, you’re probably wondering how insurance fits into the puzzle. Let’s break it down in simple terms and explore your rights after a commercial truck accident.
Our team of personal injury attorneys is resourceful, experienced, and knowledgeable regarding your rights. To learn more about how we can help you, call Gravis Law today at 509.588.0530.
The Basics: How Insurance Works in Commercial Truck Accidents
Commercial trucks must carry more insurance than regular cars because they can cause much more damage in a crash. In Washington state, trucking companies need to have at least $750,000 in liability coverage, but many have millions in coverage because of the risks involved.
Tip: Always get the truck driver’s insurance info after an accident, even if you feel okay. Some injuries show up later!
Types of Insurance in Truck Accidents
Several types of insurance might come into play after a truck crash. These include:
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The truck driver’s insurance
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Your own car insurance
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Health insurance for your medical bills
TIP: Don’t just settle for the first offer from the truck’s insurance company. It’s often lower than what you deserve.
Your Rights After a Commercial Truck Accident in Washington State
As someone hurt in a truck crash, you have the necessary rights. You can seek money for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A Washington truck injury lawyer can help you understand and fight for these rights.
TIP: Keep all your medical bills and records. They’re crucial evidence for your case.
The Timeline: How Long Does a Truck Accident Case Take?
Resolving a truck accident case can take a few months to a few years. It depends on the complexity of your case and whether it goes to court. Here’s a rough timeline:
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1-3 months: Initial investigation and gathering evidence
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3-6 months: Negotiating with insurance companies
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6-18 months: Filing a lawsuit if needed
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18-24 months: Going to trial (if settlement isn’t reached)
TIP: Be patient. Rushing can lead to a lower settlement that only covers some of your needs.
How a Truck Accident Injury Lawyer Can Help You Navigate Insurance
Dealing with insurance after a truck accident can be tricky. A truck accident attorney near me can be your guide. They know how to:
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Figure out which insurance policies apply to your case
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Talk to insurance adjusters on your behalf
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Make sure you don’t say anything that could hurt your claim
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Fight for the full amount you deserve
TIP: Many truck accident lawyers offer free consultations. Use this to learn about your options without any cost.
Common Insurance Company Tactics to Watch Out For
Insurance companies often try to pay out as little as possible. Here are some tricks they might use:
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Offering a quick, low settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries
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Asking for a recorded statement to use against you later
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Downplaying your injuries or blaming you for the accident
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Dragging out the process hoping you’ll give up
TIP: Wait to sign anything or give statements to the insurance company without talking to a lawyer first.
Steps to Take After a Commercial Truck Accident in Kennewick, WA
What you do right after a truck crash can make a big difference in your case. Here’s what to do:
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Call 911 and get medical help
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Take pictures of the accident scene if you can
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Get contact info from witnesses
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Don’t admit fault or apologize
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Call a Washington truck accident attorney as soon as possible
TIP: Even if you feel fine, see a doctor. Some injuries, like whiplash, can take days to show up.
Gathering Evidence for Your Truck Accident Claim
Good evidence can make or break your case. Here’s what you or your truck accident injury lawyer should try to get:
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Police reports
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Truck driver’s logbooks
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Truck maintenance records
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Your medical records and bills
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Witness statements
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Photos of the accident scene and your injuries
TIP: Keep a daily journal about your pain and how the accident affects your life. This can be robust evidence.
Understanding Liability in Commercial Truck Accidents
Figuring out who’s responsible in a truck accident can be complex. It might not just be the driver. Other parties that could be liable include:
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The trucking company
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The truck manufacturer
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The company that loaded the truck
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The government agency responsible for road maintenance
TIP: A reasonable trucking accident attorney will investigate all possible liable parties to maximize your compensation.
The Role of Federal Regulations in Truck Accident Cases
Commercial trucks have to follow strict federal rules. These cover things like:
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How long drivers can be on the road
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How often trucks need to be inspected
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How cargo should be loaded
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What kind of training do drivers need
TIP: If the truck company or driver breaks any of these rules, it can help your case.
Compensation You Might Be Able to Get After a Truck Accident
If you’re hurt in a truck crash, you might be able to get money for:
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Medical bills (past and future)
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Lost wages and lost earning capacity
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Pain and suffering
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Property damage
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Emotional distress
TIP: Keep all receipts related to your accident, even for small things like over-the-counter pain meds.
The Importance of Acting Quickly After a Truck Accident
Time is not on your side after a truck crash. Evidence can disappear, witnesses can forget details and legal deadlines exist to file a claim. In Washington state, you usually have three years from the accident date to file a lawsuit. But it’s best to start the process much sooner.
TIP: Contact a Washington truck accident lawyer as soon as you can after the crash. They can start protecting your rights right away.
How Gravis Law Can Help with Your Truck Accident Case
Dealing with insurance after a truck accident can feel overwhelming. That’s where Gravis Law comes in. Our team knows the ins and outs of truck accident cases in Kennewick and Washington state. We can:
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Handle all communication with insurance companies
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Gather evidence to support your claim
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Calculate the total value of your damages
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Negotiate for a fair settlement
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Take your case to court if needed
TIP: Many get more money with a lawyer’s help, even after paying legal fees.
FAQs About Truck Accident Insurance in Washington
1. What if the truck driver doesn’t have enough insurance?
If the truck driver’s insurance isn’t enough to cover your damages, we can look into other sources of compensation. This might include the trucking company’s insurance or your own underinsured motorist coverage.
2. Can I still get compensation if I was partly at fault for the accident?
Yes, you can. Washington follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule. This means you can still recover damages even if you were partly at fault, but your percentage of fault will reduce your compensation.
3. How long will it take to get my insurance settlement after a truck accident?
The timeline can vary a lot depending on the complexity of your case. Simple cases might settle in a few months, while more complex ones can take a year or more. Your truck accident lawyer can give you a better idea based on the specifics of your situation.
4. What if the trucking company’s insurance offers me a quick settlement?
Be cautious about accepting quick settlement offers. They’re often lower than what your case is worth. It’s best to talk to a trucking lawyer before accepting any offers.
5. Do I need a lawyer for insurance after a truck accident?
While you’re not required to have a lawyer, having one can significantly improve your chances of getting fair compensation. Truck accident cases are complex, and insurance companies have teams of lawyers on their side. A Washington truck accident attorney can level the playing field.
Get Help from a Truck Accident Lawyer in Washington State
Dealing with insurance after a commercial truck accident can be a real headache. But you don’t have to face it alone. If you’re in Kennewick or anywhere in Washington state, Gravis Law is here to help. We know how to navigate the complex world of truck accident insurance and fight for your deserved compensation.
Have questions about your truck accident case? Do you need a lawyer? Give us a call or visit our website. We’re here to help you understand your rights and options after a commercial truck accident in Washington state.
Gravis Law has guided clients through personal injury cases with a personalized touch. We are here to help you and treat every client with the utmost care and empathy. Call our team of experienced attorneys today at 509.588.0530.