How To Handle the Insurance Company After a Truck Accident

After any type of accident, the insurance companies of the policyholders will be notified.  

That’s especially true with an accident involving a truck. Not only will the truck driver’s insurance company be notified, but also the trucking company’s carrier. Representatives from those companies will start to reach out to you.  

When you are fielding calls from insurance adjusters, even those who seem friendly, you want to protect yourself at all costs. This is a confusing and vulnerable time. How you respond can have a major impact on what happens next. 

If you’re unsure about how to handle the insurance company after a truck accident, there are a few steps to take to control the conversation. 

Report the Accident to Your Insurance 

Many truck accident victims wonder whether they need to report the incident to their insurance company. In most cases, the answer is yes. Some policies have rules that all accidents must be reported, even if the other driver is at fault.  

You will want to keep your statement short and factual. Make sure to stick to the basics, such as: 

• When and where the accident happened 

• The vehicles involved 

• Any injuries  

Don’t guess, don’t assign blame, and definitely don’t offer a recorded statement until you’ve spoken to a lawyer. This isn’t about hiding anything. You want to protect yourself from having your words used against you later. 

Be Cautious with the Trucking Company’s Insurance Adjuster 

After a truck crash, you can expect the trucking company’s insurance to reach out. This can happen within a day or two. They might sound friendly or helpful. Many times, they may offer you a quick settlement.  

But remember: their job is to protect the trucking company, not to take care of you.  

These early offers are often far less than what your claim is worth. If they call, you can say, “I’m not ready to discuss anything until I’ve talked to a lawyer.” 

Never Admit Fault  

Your first instinct may be to talk after a truck accident, especially when an insurance adjuster calls and starts asking questions. Even small, well-meaning comments can hurt your claim when dealing with the insurance company. 

Your words can easily be twisted into a narrative that you were at fault. And once that door is open, the insurance company will walk right through it to deny or reduce your compensation. 

You don’t need to play detective or accept blame when the insurance company calls. It’s okay to say, “I’m still gathering information,” or, better yet, “Please speak with my attorney.” You’re not being difficult; you’re being smart.  

Standing your ground early helps protect your legal rights in the long run. 

Limit What You Say in Writing  

When an insurance company asks you to provide a written statement or sign paperwork, it can feel like another box to check. However, written communication is one of the most powerful tools insurance companies use to control the outcome of a claim. 

They might ask you to email “your version of what happened” or sign a statement “for their records.” 

Remember that every sentence you write can be picked apart and used to weaken your case. 

You should keep communications short, factual, and always reviewed by your attorney. Don’t give statements, guess, or volunteer. You should never feel pressured to fill out paperwork without understanding what you’re signing. 

Always Keep a Paper Trail 

No matter who has talked to you, keep a paper trail. You may want to start a folder or a digital file and save everything related to the accident.  

Keep everything, including: 

• Medical records 

• Repair bills 

• Receipts 

• Accident reports 

• Photos 

• Any communications with the insurance companies 

You also want to write down the dates of any calls or conversations and what was discussed.  

Don’t Sign Anything Without Legal Advice 

You might be asked to sign documents like medical authorizations or settlement releases when dealing with insurance companies. Proceed with caution. These forms can give the insurance company access to your medical history or waive your right to compensation. 

You always want to have an attorney review anything before you sign it, because you could be signing away your rights. 

Know How Much Your Claim Is Worth 

You might be tempted to grab the first settlement offer, especially when medical bills pile up or you’re out of work. But most early offers do not come close to covering the full cost of your injuries. You need to factor in everything, from long-term medical care, lost income, and the pain and disruption the accident caused in your life.  

A good attorney will help you calculate the full value of your claim, so you don’t settle for less than you deserve. 

Work With an Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer 

When you have a lawyer on your side, it can take a huge burden off your shoulders. A lawyer who knows truck accident law will handle the calls, the paperwork, the negotiations, and, if needed, take your case to court.  

After a truck accident, you need to take the right approach with the insurance company. One of the first steps is reaching out to a skilled and experienced truck accident lawyer.  

When you need legal help, the team at the Law Office of Matthew L. Sharp is ready to assist with your claim.