Having a large truck slam into you in Portland is terrifying and you may not know what to do after the crash. You can learn some things online about truck accidents but don’t fall for any of the myths below. If you have questions about a potential claim, speak to a Portland truck accident lawyer today.
The Truck Driver Is Always At Fault
The truck driver may be at fault for many truck accidents, even the majority. But there are often other parties who also could share fault. Some of the most common parties who also could be to blame for a truck accident are the carrier, the cargo owner, the truck or parts manufacturer, the truck owner, the mechanic, and other vehicle drivers.
One of the reasons you should retain a Portland truck accident lawyer after an accident is to understand who may be at fault. There could be other people or entities at fault that are not apparent at first. For example, the trucking company may have had inadequate hiring practices and the driver they hired has a poor driving record. In that case, the trucking company could be liable for your injuries. Or, the trucking company could have pushed drivers too hard to get their loads to their destinations on time, making the trucker tired and causing an accident.
You Don’t Need An Attorney In A Motor Vehicle Accident
There are some auto accidents where an attorney may not be needed. For instance, if another driver rear ends you at low speed and you only have a dented bumper and no injuries, filing a claim with your insurance company is probably all you need.
However, if you are in a serious accident with a tractor-trailer, you almost certainly have major property damage and injuries. You should always have a Portland truck accident lawyer handle your case. The trucking company and its insurance provider will have plenty of powerful lawyers defending their interests. You should have a Portland truck accident lawyer going up against them to fight for your rights. Your attorney will have a better chance of getting you fair compensation for your medical bills, lost earnings, and pain and suffering.
Every Truck Accident Case Goes To Trial
In reality, most truck accident cases are settled. The trucking and insurance company knows that going to trial is risky. The jury tends to be sympathetic to injured parties, especially if the defendant is a truck driver or trucking company. The trucking company could lose a lot more money by going to trial than settling.
So, your case may settle, but you should have a Portland truck accident lawyer negotiating on your behalf. The trucking company and their insurance provider will try to pay you much less than what you deserve. You should have an experienced lawyer representing you who knows what your case and injuries are worth.
There Is An ‘Average’ Truck Crash Settlement
The truth is that every truck crash injury case is different and unique. What one case was worth in Portland a year ago with injuries similar to yours may not reflect your case value.
There are many things that can influence what your truck crash claim is worth, such as the severity of your injuries, how long you are out of work, and your pain and suffering. If you talk to a lawyer guaranteeing you a certain amount, go find another attorney. There is no way to be sure how a case will work out. A legitimate attorney may be able to give you a rough settlement range, though. Talk to a Portland truck accident lawyer today for more information!
Herron Law Firm 