Myths Abound – Let’s Get to the Truth about Commercial Vehicle Wrecks
Commercial vehicle accidents aren’t always trucking accidents – although that’s the most common commercial vehicle on the highways. Because of regulations, laws, and a variety of other factors surrounding these vehicles, the way they’re handled is a little different than a typical motor vehicle accident. Today, the Car Crash Captain is looking into the myths of commercial vehicle accidents in Texas.
Common Myths and Realities of Commercial Vehicle Wrecks
Myth – The Truck Driver is Always at Fault
After being involved in a wreck with a big rig, there are numerous parties that may be liable for the wreck. The driver is the first to be examined, as driver error and negligence often leads to wrecks. However, the trucking company, the maintenance crew, the loading crew, or even another party may be at fault. There are times, too, when the injured motorist is at fault and the truck driver was following the law.
Myth – You Can’t Sue Trucking Companies
Inexperienced attorneys, and those who don’t work in the legal field, find that large trucking companies have intimidating legal presences. However, that doesn’t mean they aren’t able to be sued. If their driver, or their company, was negligent, then they need to compensate the injured party – regardless of how big their legal department is.
Myth – Insurance Will Cover Everything
The truth is that insurance would deny every claim if they could. Their business model is to collect premiums and make money for their shareholders or policy owners. Paying out settlements means they aren’t making as much money. That’s why Herbert Law Group is here – we help “encourage” the insurance companies to pay out what they owe to help fully compensate the injured party.
Myth – Claims Follow the Same Process as Car Wrecks
Claims follow a similar process, however, with a truck wreck there’s a lot more that goes into the overall process. With multiple parties that may be liable for the wreck, injuries that are often more severe (fatal accidents are much more common), and more regulations to know and understand, the process can take longer and become much more complicated than a regular car wreck.
Myth – It’s Too Expensive to Hire a Lawyer
The truth is actually the opposite. Personal injury lawyers, including truck wreck lawyers, usually work on a contingency basis. This means if your case isn’t won or settled, you don’t owe any money. Even with a 20 or 25% fee, your settlement is larger when using a lawyer than if you try to take things on yourself. Besides, why spend your energy fighting with insurance and a trucking company’s legal team when you should be resting and healing from injuries?
Myth – You Have Plenty of Time to File a Claim Later
You have time, but “plenty of time” may be a bit subjective. It’s understood that you might be laid up, injured, or the victim may have passed away. So, the ability to file a claim is open for up to two years from the date of the accident. However, the more time that passes, the harder it is to prove negligence – this is why you want to start working with an attorney right away.
Myth – Herbert Law Group Won’t Handle Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Herbert Law Group has extensive experience handling commercial vehicle accidents in Texas. We don’t just deal with car wrecks and motorcycle wrecks, we’ll help you if you’re the victim of a truck wreck as well.
Reality – Herbert Law Group is on Your Side
Our goal is to make sure you’re well taken care of. Insurance companies have a tendency to minimize claims and pay out less than what is adequate. We’re here to fight for you.
Let’s talk about what happened, and we’ll dispel the myths of commercial vehicle accidents in Texas. We’ll learn what happened, and make a plan to help you receive compensation that fully compensates you for your losses.
Call our offices at 214-414-3808, or fill out the contact form on our site and we’ll be in touch with you for a free conversation.