How to Deal With an Insurer After an Alaska Truck Accident
Large trucks and commercial vehicles massively outsize the autos traveling alongside them in traffic, so it is not a surprise that most fatalities and injuries are occupants of the passenger cars. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), almost 5,800 people are killed every year in accidents with 18-wheelers, semis, tractor-trailers, and other large trucks. In total, 72% of the victims are in the passenger vehicle. Another 11% are not occupants in any vehicle, such as pedestrians and bicycle riders.
There are strict rules and regulations under federal law regarding insurance coverage for trucks, drivers, and trucking companies. Therefore, you will be dealing with an insurer extensively when filing a claim after a truck crash. There are challenges with insurance companies that are only trying to protect their own interests, so it is wise to retain an Anchorage truck accident attorney right away to aggressively fight on your behalf. If you do not get a chance to get counsel before being contacted by the insurer, some tips are useful.
DO Confirm Basic Information
You do not need to immediately hang up on the insurer’s employee, but keep in mind that everything you say during the conversation will be scrutinized. Your words could become central to the company’s defense, so you should only speak to confirm:
- Your name, address, and contact information;
- The date, time, and location of the truck accident; and,
- Information about other occupants in your vehicle.
DO NOT Discuss Fault
Never answer questions or make statements about how you think the truck accident happened, even to describe the truck operator’s negligence. You may share too much or inadvertently accept blame yourself, which can affect your compensation.
DO Provide Your Attorney’s Details
If you did retain counsel by the time the insurance company reaches out, you should definitely pass on your lawyer’s contact information. The insurer will then direct all communications to your attorney, easing your stress.
DO NOT Offer Details About Your Injuries
This information will eventually be available to the insurer via your medical records, but do not provide it initially. You could be still treating with your physician and specialists, and you might not know the full extent of your injuries yet.
DO Refuse to Sign Any Documents
Never agree to sign documents offered by the insurance company. In most cases, the insurer is presenting you with a release where you give up your rights to sue in exchange for a lowball settlement amount.
DO NOT Allow Your Conversation to be Recorded
Under no circumstances should you agree to having your discussion recorded. You should state this immediately when the conversation begins, so do not wait until you are asked to consent.
Our Alaska Truck Accident Lawyers Will Support You
If you stick to these tips, you support our team at Power & Power Law in getting the compensation you deserve after a truck collision. Please contact our offices in Anchorage, Alaska today at 907-222-9990 or visit us online. We can set up a free case assessment with a skilled truck accident attorney.