Semi-truck collisions are often much worse than the average two-vehicle collision. The weight of the semi-truck, its massive height and the momentum it has at the time of the crash all contribute to the severity of the wreck.
The people in the smaller vehicle could sustain major injuries or might even die. Those affected by semi-truck collisions may have the option of filing an insurance claim. They can request compensation for losses related to their injuries or the death of a family member. Settling a truck insurance claim too quickly could leave the people affected by the incident without the compensation they actually deserve.
Insurance negotiations can be aggressive
A commercial truck is more dangerous and difficult to operate than the average passenger vehicle, and therefore, the rules that apply to semi-trucks are somewhat different. Commercial vehicles require substantially more insurance than passenger vehicles.
The state mandates $25,000 in property damage coverage and $25,000 or $50,000 in bodily injury coverage, depending on how many people sustain injuries. Commercial trucks that weigh 10,001 pounds or more are subject to federal insurance requirements mandating a minimum of $750,000 in liability coverage.
The larger policy requirement helps ensure that people affected by collisions have access to appropriate compensation. However, larger policies almost invariably result in more aggressive pushback from insurance companies.
People can expect more intense negotiation sessions. They may also receive settlement offers well below their total losses. If they settle quickly, possibly by accepting the first offer made, they may walk away with less compensation than they actually deserve.
Recognizing that settling can lead to an unfair outcome and that litigation is sometimes necessary can help people more fully recover their losses after semi-truck collisions. Those involved in major wrecks may need help assessing the situation and communicating with an commercial insurance company, and that’s okay.
