Tanker truck accidents are among the most severe types of vehicle crashes, often causing significant damage and injuries. After such an accident, dealing with insurance companies can feel overwhelming. While insurers may seem cooperative at first, their primary goal is often to minimize payouts. Knowing how to approach the process can help protect your rights and increase the chances of receiving fair compensation.
Report The Accident Promptly
One of the first steps after a tanker truck accident is to report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide only basic information, such as when and where the accident occurred, and avoid speculating about fault. While it’s important to meet reporting deadlines, there’s no need to go into detail about the accident during this initial contact.
Be Cautious When Speaking With Insurance Adjusters
Shortly after the accident, you’ll likely hear from an insurance adjuster. While they may appear friendly and concerned, remember that their job is to protect the insurer’s interests. Avoid giving recorded statements or discussing the specifics of the accident without consulting a lawyer first. Even casual comments can be misconstrued and used to weaken your claim.
It’s also a good idea to avoid discussing your injuries in detail with the adjuster. Many injuries, especially those related to tanker truck accidents, may not fully manifest until days or weeks later. Providing premature information could harm your case if additional injuries are discovered.
Document Everything
Keeping thorough records is crucial when dealing with insurance companies after a tanker truck accident. Document your medical treatment, property damage, and any correspondence with the insurer. This includes keeping copies of medical bills, repair estimates, and written communications.
Taking photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, and the damage to your vehicle can also provide valuable evidence. Witness statements and police reports are additional forms of documentation that may strengthen your claim.
Don’t Accept The First Settlement Offer
Insurance companies may offer a quick settlement, especially in cases involving tanker truck accidents where damages can be extensive. While it might be tempting to accept the offer and move on, these initial settlements often fail to cover the full extent of your losses. Before agreeing to anything, it’s important to assess the total impact of the accident, including long-term medical needs and lost wages.
Seek Legal Guidance
Insurance claims involving tanker truck accidents are often more complicated due to the number of parties involved, such as the trucking company, driver, and even manufacturers of the vehicle or its parts. A lawyer can help you understand your options and ensure you’re not pressured into accepting a lowball offer.
At Johnston | Martineau PLLP, we’ve worked with many clients facing the challenges of tanker truck accidents. If you’re looking for a Roseville, MN tanker truck accident lawyer, we’re here to help you evaluate your case, communicate with insurance companies, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured in a tanker truck accident, don’t let insurance companies take advantage of your situation. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the right steps to protect your rights and recover the compensation you’re entitled to.
