Suffering an auto accident injury of any kind can be devastating, especially if your accident involved a large truck. The massive size of trucks and big rigs can cause severe damage to your vehicle and your person. If you’ve suffered a trucking accident injury in the Portland or Vancouver area, you likely have several questions about your physical and financial recovery. Below are the answers to three common questions about trucking accident injuries so you can move forward and secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life.
1. How Do I File a Claim, and Against Which Party?
Oregon and Washington laws allow trucking accident victims to pursue compensation that can go toward the medical bills, lost wages, and other costs associated with the accident-related injuries. However, trucking claims are more complex than other auto accident claims, as these incidents involve multiple parties. For instance, you may wonder whether to file a claim against the truck driver, the trucking company, or the truck manufacturer. Although it’s possible to pursue claims against more than one party, your best bet is to discuss your case with a trusted trucking accident lawyer to determine how to proceed.
2. What Evidence is Needed to Pursue a Trucking Accident Claim?
Like other auto accident claims, the more evidence and documentation you can provide to illustrate the severity of your injuries, the stronger your claim will be. Make sure you have a copy of the police report from the scene of the accident, as well as the contact information for any witnesses who can detail the events of the incident. If you suspect that the truck driver was distracted or negligent in some way, your attorney can work to secure trucking logs, cell phone records, and employment records to support your claim.
3. How Can I Maximize My Settlement?
The best way to ensure you obtain the financial compensation you need to support your recovery is to enlist the guidance of an experienced truck accident lawyer. Your attorney will step in and handle the communications with the trucking company and its insurance carrier on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your physical recovery. Together, you can review the initial settlement offer and determine how to negotiate a more equitable settlement if necessary.
If you or someone you love has suffered a trucking accident injury in Portland or Vancouver and you need help obtaining compensation, contact the compassionate and experienced attorneys at Henderson Taylor Law Firm today by calling (360) 737-1478.
