How Do Insurance Claims Work for Arizona Truck Accidents?

Accidents involving trucks are often more complex than standard motor vehicle collisions. Given the potential for significant damage and injuries because of the size and weight of the vehicles, as well as the likelihood of multiple liable parties, it’s imperative that you understand how the insurance claims process works in Arizona. In most cases, your best bet is to reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney in Phoenix to help you with your claim so you can ensure no mistakes are made during the process.

Filing an Insurance Claim After The Accident

An unexpected truck accident is stressful and can create a lot of confusion. Having a clear understanding of what to do afterward will help you navigate the process effectively so you can get the appropriate compensation that you deserve.

Seek Medical Attention: Your well-being should always be your top priority following an accident, no matter how minor it seems initially. Get thoroughly checked out by medical professionals immediately as you may not be aware of some injuries because of shock and adrenaline.

Notify Your Insurance Company: Don’t delay informing your insurer about the accident; you should inform them as soon as possible.

Cooperate with The Insurance Adjuster: The insurance adjuster’s job is to investigate the accident and evaluate the claim that you have submitted. Be honest and cooperate with them but remember that they’re not exactly on your side, so don’t share too much and never admit fault of any degree. 

Avoid Immediate Settlement Offers: Although an immediate settlement offer might seem tempting, it’s rarely in your best interest to accept a quick payout from the insurance company. These first offers are usually lower than what you’re truly entitled to. This should be reviewed with an attorney once you know what your expenses are going to be. 

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer: Securing the representation of a Phoenix truck accident lawyer as early in the process as possible after your truck accident is always a good idea. They bring the necessary expertise to guide you through filing a claim, negotiating with insurance adjusters, or even taking your case to court if it’s required.

Important Information To Gather After a Truck Accident Claim

Being involved in a truck accident can be quite distressing, but amid that chaos, it’s crucial to gather certain information. This will assist you while filing an insurance claim or when filing a personal injury lawsuit if it goes that direction. Here is some important evidence and information you can gather after an accident:

• Driver and truck information, including the truck driver’s name, driver’s license number, insurance and registration information, and the driver’s contact information. Also, take note of the make and model of the vehicle as well as the license plate number. Make sure to write down and take photos of any company logos or identifying features. 
• Witness contact information is essential. Gather names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the accident, as their statements can be helpful in corroborating your account of what happened. 
• Photos and videos of the accident scene are important if you’re able to do this. Ultimately, it’s most important to stay safe, so only take photos if you can do it without putting yourself in danger. Having visual evidence of the vehicle’s positions and damage, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signals, property damage, and any visible injuries can be helpful for your claim. 
• Obtain a copy of the police report filed for the accident, as it provides an official account of the incident and may include the police officer’s take on who was at fault, which could be helpful for you.
• Document the date, time, and location of the accident, along with any specific details about how the accident occurred. Having as much detail as possible will help your claim, and the longer you wait to make note of this, the harder it will be to remember it when it’s necessary.
• Keep all receipts and records of medical expenses and other costs related to the accident, such as vehicle repairs, rental car costs, lost wages, property damage suffered, and travel costs to medical appointments. This will help you determine the damages you’re entitled to.

Navigating the complexities of an insurance claim following a truck accident can be overwhelming. However, you never need to handle it alone. Don’t hesitate to contact us today to schedule a free consultation.