Milford Truck Accident Injury Attorneys

 In the vast realm of highway systems, trucking accidents can result in significant disruption, often causing serious injuries for those affected. In such chaotic moments, trucking injury lawyers serve as reliable advocates, offering guidance and assistance to survivors. These legal specialists are adept at handling the complex landscape of trucking laws and regulations.

You vs. The Insurance Company: 6 Little Known "Secrets" to Getting a Fair Settlement

We all want to be treated fairly in life, whether by our employer or the insurance company. Here are six little-known secrets to help you get a fair settlement:

1. Know Your Facts and the Law

If you are handling a case on your own, you need to know the facts of your case and how Iowa laws apply to them. Insurance adjusters are trained to use various techniques to convince you to settle for less than the fair value of your claim. One common technique is the "I am your friend" approach, where the adjuster assures you they'll give you a fair settlement and

you don't need a lawyer. However, what they won't tell you is that it’s perfectly legal for them to lie, cheat, and mislead you to settle your case for less than its worth.

Another technique is telling you how bad your case is, suggesting that you should settle because you will never get more than what they are offering. They might claim they only pay for three months of treatment after a "soft-tissue" injury because they believe all such injuries heal within that time. However, only your doctor can determine the extent and duration of your injuries, not the insurance adjuster.

2. You Do Not Have to Give a Recorded Statement

In most cases, you are not required to give the insurance adjuster for the other side a recorded statement, especially if a police report exists. Under these circumstances, you should politely decline to give a recorded statement and refer the adjuster to the police report and your medical records. There are exceptions, such as when you are filing a claim against your own insurance company for underinsured motorist (UIM) or uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. In these cases, the insurance policy may require you to provide a recorded statement. If you are uncertain about whether to give a statement, consult a qualified Iowa personal injury attorney.

3. Always Tell the Truth

Honesty is the best policy. Insurance companies have extensive databases with information about any prior claims you have made. If you lie about past claims, you will likely harm the value of your current case. Be truthful about your medical history and prior claims to maintain credibility.

4. Ask About the Insurance Coverage

In car accident and personal injury cases, ask the adjuster how much insurance coverage is available. This question can catch the adjuster off guard, especially if you do not have an attorney. They may prefer not to disclose this information, but under Iowa law, the state minimum for car accidents is only $20,000 per person for personal injuries. If you have sustained a serious injury, you might need to look at your own underinsured motorist policy for additional coverage. Remember, there are specific requirements such as obtaining permission from your insurance company before agreeing to a settlement.

5. Making Threats Will Not Help Your Case

The insurance adjuster is a trained professional whose job is to minimize the payout for your case and maximize the insurance company's profits. Making threats like "I am going to sue you" or "Let me talk to your boss" will not help. Instead, it shows the adjuster that they can make you angry, which is not beneficial for your case. They have legal teams ready to defend the case, so threats of litigation are unlikely to intimidate them.

6. Do Your Research

It's difficult to negotiate with an insurance adjuster if you don't know how much your case is worth. Research similar cases in Iowa that have gone to trial and see how much compensation was awarded. Without this vital information, you will find it hard to negotiate effectively.

Common Car Accident Injuries Requiring Back Surgery

Bulging and herniated discs, as well as spinal compression fractures, are common back injuries resulting from car accidents. These injuries often necessitate surgeries like discectomy, spinal fusion, vertebroplasty, and laminectomy, which can significantly increase medical costs and recovery time.

Back Surgery and Car Accident Claims

Back surgeries can lead to substantial medical costs, including initial care, surgery, and hospital stays. If you are out of work for a long time after the surgery or cannot perform your old job, you may face a significant loss of wages and earning capacity. It's crucial to ensure that your settlement covers the full extent of these damages.

Should I Get a Car Accident Lawyer?

Hiring a car accident lawyer can greatly benefit your case. Most qualified lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning they get paid only if they win your case. They handle all interactions with the insurance companies, obtain your medical records and bills, and keep you updated on your case.

When a Delivery Driver Causes a Commercial Truck Accident

Delivery trucks are considered commercial vehicles, and accidents involving them can result in serious injuries. If you’ve been involved in an accident with a commercial vehicle in Iowa, determining liability is crucial. The trucking company or the driver may be held liable depending on the circumstances, such as whether the driver was an employee or an independent contractor.

Determining Accident Liability

To prove liability, you must show negligence, such as failing to perform vehicle inspections, improperly loading cargo, or driving aggressively. A Milford truck accident and commercial vehicle attorney can help you establish negligence and pursue compensation.

Contacting Walker, Billingsley & Bair

At Walker, Billingsley & Bair, our team is committed to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. We handle all injury cases on a contingency fee basis and manage all necessary documentation and communications.

Walker, Billingsley & Bair is prepared to act fast to defend your rights after a truck accident in Iowa. Contact our office at 641-792-3595 to speak with an attorney.