Injured in a California Truck Accident? Here’s What to Know

On behalf of Rooney Law Firm posted in Trucking Accidents on Friday, September 5, 2014.

Dealing with any type of accident can be daunting. Most Californians have proper car insurance and likely believe vehicle damage or medical bills will be covered without a lot of effort. Quite often, however, that isn’t exactly what happens. In particular, a commercial trucking accident can become quite complicated as businesses keep focused on their bottom line.

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What Happens After A Truck Accident?

Of course, medical care is the most important first step after an accident. After immediate treatment and recovery begins, victims may think about holding accountable whoever is at fault. What can happen, unfortunately, is that the trucking company is way ahead in its investigation.

Insurance companies have the capability to be on the scene, review evidence and put together an offer before injured people can even begin to think clearly.

How Insurance Companies Can Get Ahead

With far more resources available, it’s not unheard of for insurance companies to spook inexperienced folks into accepting a dollar amount far less than they might otherwise get if they decided to take the case to court.

At the very least, an interview without a lawyer present could end up inadvertently providing information that can be used against the victim in negotiations or trial.

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Why This Case Matters

These insurance company tactics don’t just apply to trucking companies and other businesses. Even individual insurers have the same goal – to minimize their losses.

What this means is you will have a far better chance of a positive outcome in negotiations or trial if the whole process begins with experienced, personalized representation.

What This Means For Victims And Families

We advise two points in particular on our insurance page that can help you after an accident. First, we recommend victims do not talk to insurance companies. Secondly, don’t put off talking to a lawyer, who can protect your rights immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

In most personal injury cases, you have about two years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit. Some cases have different deadlines, so don’t guess. If you wait too long, you could lose your right to recover money. Talk to a lawyer as soon as you can.

Rooney Law Firm offers free consultations and works on a contingency fee. That means you don’t pay upfront and you don’t pay unless we win. The amount can depend on the case, and every case is different. No outcome is guaranteed.

No. Our main office is in Chico, and we help people across Northern California. That includes Redding, Red Bluff, Yuba City, Oroville, and nearby areas. If your crash happened in NorCal, reach out and we’ll tell you if we can help.

Tell the police what you saw and ask witnesses what they noticed. Save any dash cam footage, photos, and messages you received after the crash. A lawyer may be able to look into phone use and other evidence. That can help show what really caused the crash.

Yes, it’s smart to get checked. Some injuries, like neck and back injuries, can take hours or days to show up. A doctor visit also creates a record that connects your pain to the crash. Follow your doctor’s plan and keep your paperwork.

You Don’t Have To Face This Alone

After a trucking accident, victims may be dealing with recovery while insurance companies and businesses move quickly to protect their own interests. Taking the right steps early can help protect your rights and improve your chances of a positive outcome.

Source: Rooney Law Firm, “Standing Up for Your Rights” Sep. 04, 2014

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Need Help After a Truck Accident?

You don’t have to deal with everything on your own. After a truck accident, things can move quickly, especially when insurance companies get involved. Having the right legal support early can help you understand your options and protect your rights from the start.

Our goal is to help people in the best way possible. this is a basic principle in every case and cause for success. contact us today for a free consultation. 

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