Underride truck accidents are devastating. They often leave victims with life-changing injuries. In an attempt to seek help and protect their legal rights, these individuals run to the internet for guidance only to be met with misleading untruths.
The false information can make collaborations with underride truck accident lawyers unrewarding. But we can change that. Below, we will dispel five myths about underride truck accidents.
1. Truck Drivers Can’t Be at Fault
Most people assume that all truck drivers are superior to others. Therefore, they can’t be responsible for underride truck accidents. After all, they complete multiple tests to earn their commercial driving licenses (CDLs) and are in control of larger vehicles. But they are dead wrong.
Trained truck drivers are not immune to blunders. In addition, a large chunk of them are newcomers to the trucking industry. Rushing to deliver goods or score points with their employers, they can make mistakes such as overspeeding. Others entertain distractions and drive under the influence, causing collisions with smaller cars.
2. Truck Companies Can’t Be Held Liable
Unknown to most, a truck company can be responsible for an underride crash. This typically happens when it coerces the driver to work unrealistically long hours. It can also put untrained drivers behind the wheel or force them to carry more weight than allowed.
It’s noteworthy that the truck company that loaded and secured the vehicle can be responsible for the accident as well. Other organizations that could be liable include truck manufacturers and mechanics.
3. Underride Truck Accident Lawyers Are Too Expensive
Many victims think hiring a truck accident lawyer is unaffordable. However, some of these legal professionals will gladly accept reduced rates, especially if the claimant is a low-income earner. Still, the specific amount depends on how the lawyer wants to be paid. This could be hourly, retainer, contingency, or flat fee.
Some underride truck accident lawyers will only request payment if they win the personal injury case. Victims on a shoestring budget can hire their legal services to claim for the damages they suffer after a collision.
4. All Truck Accident Lawsuits Take Years in Court
Truck accident claims are not usually settled overnight. Even so, some only take a few months as opposed to years. In fact, a vast majority of these cases don’t make it to court. Most insurance companies try to settle as soon as possible to save money.
One of the factors that determine how long a truck accident claim takes is its value. The severity of damages and the supporting evidence may also come into play.
5. Insurance Companies Are Always Fair
A vast pool of underride truck accident victims believes insurance companies strive to ensure they are well compensated. But here’s a bummer — these organizations only work for themselves. Unfortunately, most of them try to low-ball claimants. This is why victims should work with trustworthy lawyers who can determine the actual value of their claims.
In Closing
Debunking these myths about underride truck accidents is only the first step to claiming compensation. Before filing their claims or hiring underride truck accident lawyers, victims should conduct further research. This lets them in on what to do to prepare for the case and maximize their chances of winning.
