A truck accident can have a devastating effect on your life. Besides leaving you with physical injuries and emotional distress, it can also result in significant financial losses from medical bills to lost wages. Fortunately, you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim to recover compensation for your injuries and losses. The process can, however, be complex and time-consuming, especially if you lack legal experience. It may be best to consult a Wisconsin truck accident lawyer or help.
Here's how to file a personal injury claim for truck accident collisions in Wisconsin.
SPEAK TO A TRUCK ACCIDENT LAWYER
Navigating the legal process of filing a personal injury claim alone can be overwhelming. Reduce your stress by seeking the assistance of an experienced truck accident lawyer. Truck accident lawyers understand state laws and can help you avoid mistakes that could result in your claim being denied or reduced.
They can also handle the paperwork and collect additional evidence on your behalf, allowing you more time to focus on your recovery. When looking for a truck accident attorney, select a local with a higher success rate in handling cases similar to yours. Ask friends, family, and co-workers for recommendations, or try an online search.
GATHER THE NECESSARY EVIDENCE
Evidence is crucial in proving the other party's liability in a truck accident case. Therefore, gather as much evidence as possible at the accident scene if you can. It should include the truck driver's name, contact information, license plate number, and address. In addition, take photos of the accident and damage to your vehicle. Witnesses are significant in providing first-hand accounts of the accident. Ensure you also save their contact information and record their statements.
SEND A DEMAND LETTER
Once you have sufficient proof of the at-fault party's liability, send a demand letter through your lawyer to the truck driver's insurance company. This letter should explain comprehensively how the accident occurred and the cost of damages you suffered as a result. Significantly, a demand letter outlines the specific financial amount you will accept to restore justice. Your lawyer determines the figure by reviewing medical and damage estimates from doctors or accident reconstructionists.
NEGOTIATE THE SETTLEMENT
After sending a demand letter to the truck driver's insurance company, you should receive a settlement offer within 30 days. Most insurance companies will try as much as possible to offer the least amount possible to settle the claim. Do not accept the initial offer from the insurance company without consulting your truck accident lawyer. If the offer is far lower than your expectations, your attorney can negotiate a higher settlement amount with the insurance company.
FILE A LAWSUIT
If you can't agree upon a settlement with the trucker's insurance company, with the advice of your attorney, you may proceed to file a personal injury lawsuit. During the process, both parties must provide evidence to back their claims. Some proof your attorney will need to convince the jury that the truck driver was negligent include witness statements, physical corroboration, and written reports. The court will then review each side's claims and render a verdict.
GET IN TOUCH WITH WISCONSIN'S TOP TRUCK ACCIDENT LAWYER
If you have been injured in an accident involving an 18-wheeler in Wisconsin, our lawyers can protect your rights. At Bykhovsky Law LLC, we have helped our clients obtain millions of dollars in compensation over the years, and we can assist you too. From the initial case evaluation to the final verdict, we will handle all aspects of your case, so you can focus on getting well. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our truck accident lawyers.
