Trucking companies have tough lawyers backing them for the accident claims that come their way. These lawyers try to squash every case or settle for as little as possible, making it very hard to win and get a fair settlement.
However, it is not completely impossible and some cases do have excellent results. What are the main ingredients for these successful cases? Here are five tips on how to hold a truck company liable if a drunk driver smashes your car.
Make sure cops arrive on the scene in time
A drunk and driving truck driver is not a foreign subject and you might have been a victim of this kind of victimization. Sadly, trucking companies have shark lawyers and the first thing they try to dismiss is the toxicity levels.
They might say the results are inaccurate because of the time it took for the test to be administered. According to expert truck accident lawyer Stephen Babcock from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, you must ensure that the police arrive on the scene in time. When calling it in, try to stress for the alcohol blood test.
Create a personal record of the incident
After the accident, start making a record of the incident even before the police arrive. Some passersby might be willing to be witnesses and taking pictures could help. Taking personal photos of the skid marks and other important objects or marking is important.
They are much more easily accessible for scrutinization and drawing some conclusions on what went down. This could also help support the investigation that will be launched about this incident. The personal record is critical and important in accidents like these since it might also entail crucial information that the police report doesn’t.
Get an accident lawyer
To successfully fight this case, get a lawyer to help you battle it efficiently with prospects of positive results. Getting any lawyer might not cut but instead, an experienced accident lawyer is much more equipped for cases like these.
Research and find the best accident lawyer in your vicinity and speak to them about the steps to take. Play open cards with them and show them all you have got in your personal records. This could help them draw better conclusions and draft good opening statements.
Choose on the legal action you want to be taken
It is up to you what legal action should be taken against the perpetrator and their company. Remember, the company is liable for their driver’s action, so if you would like to sue them, consider pressing charges. Some might choose to settle privately.
In any case, having an accident lawyer will ensure your best interests are represented and that you get what you’re deserving. Nobody should pressure you on the decision you’re going to take, not even your lawyer. Instead, the lawyer should give you educated opinions and all the data available.
Build up the patience needed
Trucking companies have a seemingly infinite stream of cash and they can try to deliberately delay the case. If you are willing to wait throughout the duration, it might be likely to get your demands met.
However, if you fold too quickly, you might get an unfair settlement. At the same time, try to avoid a deadlock during negotiations by all means since this can lead to disappointment, especially on your end. You might have to wait for months to get the full compensation but with a great lawyer, this is not at all impossible.