He sat staring at the number on the page. Just a few weeks earlier, he’d been in a collision with an 18-wheeler that left his car crushed, his shoulder broken, and his life completely upended. Now, the insurance company was offering him what they called a “just and fair settlement.” But the truck accident compensation didn’t even cover the medical bills he’d already paid. When he pushed back, the representative didn’t budge.
In that moment, he wondered if hiring an attorney was the next logical step. And the quick answer is a resounding “yes.”
Why Trucking Accident Claims Are Different
Trucking accident cases are not like those for standard automobile accidents. The injuries are typically far more severe—spinal damage, head trauma, or long-term mobility issues that can alter a person’s entire future. Recovery can take months or years, with medical expenses that pile up faster than anyone expects.
And on the other side of the table? You’re not dealing with a small-time insurance adjuster. You’re facing a commercial trucking company—sometimes even a primary national carrier—with an entire legal team trained to protect their bottom line. Their goal is simple: to minimize what they pay out. Some states have even passed laws favoring the trucking industry, making it far more likely that they receive a truck accident compensation offer that is far less than they deserve.
Truck Accident Compensation: Steps to Take if You’re Offered Too Little
The above account illustrates the reality for many people injured in trucking accidents. What the opposition terms a “good offer” often falls far short of what victims truly need to rebuild their lives.
If that initial truck accident compensation offer feels off, don’t sign anything yet. You still have options.
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Review the offer carefully.
Hire a personal injury attorney and go through every detail of what’s being offered versus what your actual damages are. Your actual damages include not only current medical bills but also any lost wages, property damage, and future medical or rehabilitation costs. These are all important factors that must be weighed carefully.
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Talk to a truck accident attorney.
We alluded to this already because it’s an important step. A personal injury attorney who handles trucking accident cases knows how to value claims accurately and recognize when an offer is unfair. They can also calculate less obvious losses—like future earnings or emotional distress—that insurance companies often overlook.
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Negotiate through your attorney.
Your attorney can send a formal demand letter that clearly lays out your damages and what compensation is appropriate. This step alone, plus the threat of going to court, often results in a more reasonable offer.
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Consider mediation or arbitration.
If negotiations stall, mediation allows a neutral third party to help find common ground before heading to court. Arbitration can also be a quicker path to resolution, though you’ll want your attorney’s guidance to decide if it’s right for you.
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File a personal injury lawsuit if necessary.
If all else fails, your attorney can take the matter to court. It may take time, but litigation can be the only way to secure fair compensation when the trucking company refuses to act in good faith.
Truck Accident Compensation Offer: Why Legal Representation Matters
The trucking company will have its lawyers ready from the start—sharp, seasoned, and well-funded. You deserve the same level of protection. A skilled trucking accident attorney can take over the negotiations, gather evidence, bring in accident reconstruction experts, and push for a result that truly reflects your losses.
When you’ve been hit by a commercial truck, you’re not just fighting for money—you’re fighting for your future. Having the right legal team on your side ensures that the future doesn’t get bargained away.
Call Keys Law Offices Today!!
Large truck accidents can occur for various reasons, including fatigue, distracted driving, speeding, inadequate training, and drug and alcohol use. Sometimes, the trucking company can be liable for an accident if it fails to maintain or inspect the truck properly or violates federal or state regulations. At Keys Law Offices, we are dedicated to representing victims of truck accidents and their families, including those involving semi-trucks.
We understand the complex legal and regulatory issues involved in truck accident cases and know how to investigate and litigate these cases to ensure that our clients receive the compensation they deserve. Please do not hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.
Our staff is always available. Call us today!