Waiting for a claim to settle can feel endless, especially when you’re dealing with the stress of a serious vehicle accident. However, the process can be even more drawn out when the accident involved a semi-truck instead of a car.

Truck accident cases are more complicated because they have multiple liable parties, stricter regulations, and more layers of investigation that can slow things down. Understanding why these claims take longer can help you feel prepared for the future.

At Fieger Law, our Michigan truck accident lawyers have the experience and the resources to guide you through these challenges and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

The General Process of Filing and Resolving Car Accident Claims

Car accident claims typically follow a straightforward process. After a collision occurs, the involved parties exchange information, and insurance companies begin their investigations. Common steps include:

  • Determining Fault: Insurance adjusters review evidence such as police reports, photographs, and witness statements to establish liability.
  • Collecting Evidence: Both parties may gather evidence to support their claim, including medical records, vehicle damage reports, and accident scene details.
  • Negotiating With the Insurance Company: The injured party works with the insurer to negotiate a fair settlement. This typically covers medical bills and other damages up to the at-fault driver’s policy limit.

While many car accident cases settle without legal action, experienced attorneys, like those at Fieger Law, often help victims secure larger settlements. However, truck accidents present unique challenges that require specialized expertise.

Factors That Make Truck Accident Claims More Complex

Truck accident cases often take longer to resolve because they involve challenges not usually found in car crash cases, such as:

  • Multiple Liable Parties: Unlike car accidents where one driver is often at fault, truck accidents may involve the truck driver, trucking company (through vicarious liability), cargo loaders, and even manufacturers.
  • Federal and State Regulations: The trucking industry is governed by federal and Michigan state laws, including Hours of Service regulations and seasonal weight restrictions, which can complicate determining fault in an accident.
  • Expert Witness Requirements: Determining fault in a truck accident often requires expert testimony, such as accident reconstruction specialists, to clarify how the accident occurred and identify responsible parties.

These added complexities can lead to longer investigations, extended evidence collection, and prolonged settlement negotiations compared to typical car accidents. If you are facing the challenges of a truck accident claim, contact the qualified truck accident lawyers at Fieger Law for trusted guidance and support.

The Role of Trucking Companies and Large Insurance Policies

Dealing with trucking companies and their insurers can also extend the claims process. Trucking companies often carry large commercial insurance policies, sometimes up to $5 million, which drives insurers to fight harder to protect their bottom line. As a result, you can expect:

  • Aggressive Legal Defense: Trucking companies have legal teams dedicated to minimizing liability. They may dispute evidence or shift blame to avoid payouts.
  • Delays in Cooperation: Insurers may delay releasing critical evidence, such as black box data and driver logs, to protect their interests.
  • Higher Damages: Since truck accidents often involve severe injuries, insurers may resist paying the claim’s full value without extensive negotiations.

This often results in lengthy settlement negotiations and, at times, the need for litigation to pursue full financial recovery. Let our experienced team at Fieger Law represent you. We push back against delay tactics commonly used by insurers, fighting for a settlement that fully reflects the extent of your injuries and losses.

The Importance of Legal Representation in Truck Accident Claims

Given the complexities involved, working with an experienced attorney can reduce the timeline and improve the outcome of your truck accident claim. A skilled lawyer can assist by:

  • Collecting critical evidence like black box data and driver logs without delays
  • Requesting timely access to records from trucking companies and insurers
  • Coordinating claims involving multiple responsible parties
  • Advancing settlement discussions to avoid unnecessary delays
  • Taking cases to court when insurers refuse an adequate settlement

At Fieger Law, our Michigan truck accident lawyers have the resources and expertise to handle even the most complex truck accident cases, ensuring your case moves forward as efficiently as possible.

Let Fieger Law Win You Maximum Compensation After a Truck Collision

Coping with serious injuries and lost wages after a truck accident can be overwhelming, leaving you financially strained while waiting for answers. Let a skilled attorney from Fieger Law help you build a strong case and pursue the compensation you need to help you recover.

Our knowledgeable attorneys have a winning track record for representing clients injured by large trucks. We’ve won millions for victims, including $30 million for a woman who was struck by a Ryder Truck while stopped for a passing presidential motorcade.

Contact us today for a free consultation. We can help you seek compensation for medical bills, lost income, and the lasting impact this accident has had on your life.