Trucking Accidents: ways big companies try to get the upper hand
The rise of e-commerce and overnight deliveries, coupled with Pennsylvania’s easy access to major cities on the East Coast, has turned our state into a warehousing and trucking mecca. With all those trucks on the road, accidents are going to happen—7,646 accidents to be exact. Of those accidents in 2023, 158 were fatal. With their heavy weight and size, truck accidents pack a huge punch and are often catastrophic to everyone involved. It’s for this reason that trucking companies often do everything they can to minimize the amount of money they have to pay after an accident. You might be surprised at some of the things they do to get the upper hand. Our attorneys at GLS Injury Law have seen it all. That’s why we want to point out, if you’re ever involved in a trucking accident:
- Take Great Care in What You Say and Sign
- Never Accept the Company’s Initial Settlement Offer
- Be Very Patient
- Contact an Attorney Right Away
Take Great Care in What You Say and Sign
Trucking companies will have their lawyers dispatched to an accident scene immediately. Before everyone involved in the accident even makes it to the hospital, their attorneys are on location collecting evidence.
Once the injured parties arrive at the hospital, it is likely representatives of the trucking company will try to contact them or their family members. They’ll ask for a recorded statement, for signed papers, and for a detailed account of what happened. In this circumstance, don’t ever agree to giving a statement, recorded or otherwise, or to signing any papers. Large trucking companies will be persistent; in hopes you slip up and say something inaccurate. Don’t get caught in the trap because it could jeopardize your claim. Contact a truck accident lawyer right away.
Never Accept the Company’s Initial Settlement Offer
After being in a serious accident and not able to work, medical bills can pile up quickly. Often times, this leaves the injured very vulnerable and desperate for money. Trucking companies know that. Truck companies will often send an initial settlement offer that is well below what the injured driver deserves.
Almost never will an early settlement offer come even close to fully compensating someone injured in a truck accident. There are so many considerations when evaluating these injuries, many of which do not come into focus for months. Truck accident victims experience lost wages, out-of-pocket medical and other expenses and pain and suffering. Accepting a lump sum of money for these losses and damages is a one-time proposition—in other words, there are no re-dos. Once you settle, your claim is terminated. Bottom line; never accept a settlement from a trucking company. Once you settle, you can’t pursue further compensation if you find out it is needed. Contact a truck accident lawyer right away.
Be Very Patient
Some trucking companies will delay your claim in hopes you grow frustrated and decide to settle quickly. They have the financial resources to take as long as they want. All the while, bills are piling up and there’s little to no income due to the injury. Time is of the essence—and that is just another reason to consult with an attorney right away. We don’t allow insurance companies and company attorneys to bully you into making a bad decision. Georgelis Injury law Firm, P.C. has handled a number of high-profile trucking accident cases, and insurance companies are very aware of our reputation for fighting until we get our clients the money they deserve.
Contact an Attorney Right Away
Getting attorneys who focus their practice on trucking accident claims and the resultant injuries is essential in times like these. Our lawyers at GLS Injury Law recognize and fight back on low-ball offers, and we will not allow the trucking company to delay your claim. When you’re injured in an accident, and your claim demands aggressive representation and the relentless pursuit of fair and just compensation for your injuries, we are here to help you get it.
Our attorneys at GLS Injury Law, P.C. have helped secure millions of dollars for accident victims. If you or someone you know is injured in a trucking accident, Call Georgelis First at 717-394-3004.
We’re available 24/7 and will come to you for a free consultation. We never collect a fee unless we get money for you. Contact us today and we’ll handle everything from there!
