After a commercial truck accident in Laredo, accident victims or their family members may be able to pursue a claim for compensation. Knowing how to pursue such a case and understanding which options are best can be complicated. An experienced truck accident lawyer should be consulted for assistance during the post-accident process so you can make the best and most informed choices.
Following a commercial truck accident in Laredo, accident victims have two primary options they need to consider if they wish to seek compensation when the crash was either the fault of the trucker or if the crash resulted from negligence of the trucking company, such as a failure to conduct appropriate background screenings before hiring a worker.
These two primary options include settling or filing a civil claim. An injury attorney can provide help with both, as there are pros and cons to each option and deciding which steps to take after a commercial truck accident can be difficult.
Settling a Truck Accident Claim
Settling a truck accident claim is an appropriate course of action after a commercial truck accident only if those who are legally liable for the collision are willing to accept fault for their part in causing harm.
Typically, both truckers and the companies they work for could be held legally liable for truck collision losses. Companies the drivers work for are held accountable on the basis of either the trucking company's own failures or on the basis of agency rules. Agency rules dictate the trucker is the agent of the trucking company, so the company is responsible for the trucker's actions.
If the trucker and/or trucking company's insurer accepts fault and makes a settlement offer that your attorney deems reasonable, then accepting the offer may be the best course of action and an appropriate step to take after a commercial truck collision.
Suing After a Truck Accident
Another possible option after a truck accident is to file a civil lawsuit. A lawsuit can be filed against the trucker, trucking company, or others who should be held legally liable for crash losses. The lawsuit can be filed if settlement negotiations fail, or you can sue and try to continue discussing settlement as your case moves forward.
A lawsuit allows you to get compensation awarded by a jury if the jury determines the defendant was responsible for accident losses. You need to prove the cause of the crash and extent of damages. Both a personal injury or wrongful death claim could be filed. An Laredo injury attorney can assist with the legal proceedings and with making your case if a lawsuit is the appropriate step to take after a commercial truck accident.