Truck accident lawsuits can be complex. You have to deal with insurance companies and insurance adjusters who have a vested interest in paying you as little money as possible. Understanding how Florida’s no-fault system works is essential to understanding the claims process. In this article, we’ll discuss how insurance claims work in truck accident lawsuits.
Florida is a no-fault state when it comes to auto accidents
In Florida, every driver is required to carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. A claim must be filed on your own insurance policy prior to filing a lawsuit against another driver. In cases where the victim’s damages are less than the amount of their PIP coverage, the claim is considered resolved once PIP pays out. However, in cases where the victim has sustained substantial injuries, a lawsuit can be filed.
Truck accident lawsuits typically involve more severe injuries than a standard car accident case. Plaintiffs tend to suffer life-altering complications as a result of a truck accident. In those cases, it is common for the plaintiff to file a lawsuit against the trucking company and the driver who caused the accident. PIP coverage does not cover pain and suffering damages and only pays out a percentage of medical bills and lost wages. So, when you’re involved in an accident with a truck, it is vital to have a personal injury attorney file a lawsuit on your behalf. Your compensation under Florida’s no-fault system will be much lower if you only rely on your PIP coverage.
Truck accidents involve multiple insurance carriers
Adding to the complexity of truck accident lawsuits is the fact that an injured driver will have to deal with multiple insurance companies. You must first file a claim against your own PIP carrier prior to filing claims against the other driver’s insurance policy. In typical car accidents, you only have to file a claim against your own PIP coverage and the other driver’s insurance policy. With truck accidents, you may have to file a claim against your own PIP coverage, the driver’s insurance policy, the company that they work for, and the owner of the truck. Other defendants can include a company that improperly loaded the truck. In some cases, the company that owns the truck is different from the company that the driver works for.
Dealing with insurance adjusters
Insurance adjusters often attempt to contact truck accident victims immediately after an accident. In these cases, they may tell the victim that they should not hire an attorney. They may say that the amount of money they receive in the settlement will not be greater with an attorney. It is important to remember that an insurance adjuster is an employee of the insurance company. They have a vested interest in reducing your damages to as little as possible. If you are seriously injured, missing time from work, or have permanent injuries, you should always talk to an attorney. We can maximize the value of your claim.
Talk to a Tampa, FL Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you have been injured in an auto accident with a commercial vehicle, call Palmer | Lopez right away. Do not discuss the matter with an insurance adjuster until you have retained a Tampa personal injury attorney. We can help you recover damages related to your medical expenses, lost wages, and reduced quality of life.
