If you’ve been involved in a crash with a commercial truck, you may feel overwhelmed—especially when a trucking company’s insurance adjuster or attorney starts calling. While they might come across as helpful or concerned, their job is to protect the trucking company’s bottom line—not to ensure you get fair compensation.

Before you answer any questions or sign anything, it’s critical to understand the role they play, the risks you face by speaking with them, and how having an attorney on your side can change the outcome of your case.

The Role of Insurance Adjusters in Trucking Accidents

After a trucking accident, the insurance company’s adjuster will likely be one of the first people to reach out. But don’t be fooled by a polite tone or friendly demeanor—their job is to investigate the claim in a way that protects their employer. Adjusters are trained to save the insurance company money, and their strategies often put accident victims at a disadvantage.

Here’s what they typically do:

• Assessing the accident scene: Gathering evidence to determine liability.
• Interviewing involved parties: Obtaining statements that may be used to reduce the company’s liability.
• Evaluating damages: Estimating repair costs and medical expenses.
• Negotiating settlements: Offering compensation amounts that favor the insurance company’s interests.

Common Tactics Used by Insurance Adjusters

It’s important to be aware of the techniques that insurance adjusters use to limit how much money the company pays out. These tactics can be subtle, and victims often don’t realize they’ve said something harmful until it’s too late. Understanding these methods can help you avoid costly mistakes.

Watch out for these common strategies:

• Prompt settlement offers: Offering quick payouts before the full extent of injuries or damages is known.
• Requesting recorded statements: Using your words against you to diminish the claim’s value.
• Downplaying injuries: Suggesting that medical treatments are unnecessary or unrelated to the accident.
• Delaying the process: Prolonging the claim to pressure you into accepting a lower settlement.

What Not to Say to an Insurance Adjuster

The way you communicate with an insurance adjuster can have a big impact on your claim. Even seemingly harmless statements can be twisted and used to reduce your payout. That’s why it’s best to let your truck accident attorney handle all communication with the insurance company—but if you find yourself speaking with an adjuster, keep these guidelines in mind.

Avoid saying or doing the following:

• Admitting fault: Even partial blame can be used to reduce your compensation.
• Speculating about the accident: Stick to facts; avoid guessing or providing opinions.
• Discussing injuries in detail: Wait until you’ve seen a medical professional.
• Accepting initial offers: Consult with an attorney before agreeing to any settlement. Often, pain associated with an impact don’t become fully realized until days, weeks, or even months after an accident. It’s always best to NOT sign away your rights and consult with a truck accident lawyer to be sure you’re protected.

Protecting Your Rights After a Trucking Accident

Trucking accidents can result in significant injuries, lost wages, and emotional trauma. Taking the right steps immediately after the crash can make all the difference in protecting your legal rights and your financial future. Here’s what you should do to stay on the right track.

Follow these important steps:

• Seek medical attention immediately: Documenting injuries is crucial.
• Consult with a personal injury attorney: They can navigate the complexities of your case.
• Avoid direct communication with the trucking company’s insurance or lawyer: Let your attorney handle all interactions.
• Keep detailed records: Document all expenses, treatments, and communications related to the accident.

Trucking Accident Statistics: National and Pennsylvania Insights

Understanding the frequency and impact of trucking accidents adds important context to why legal representation is so essential. These crashes can be devastating, and unfortunately, they happen more often than you might think. Below are some eye-opening statistics.

National Statistics

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:

• In 2023, there were approximately 168,320 truck accidents in the U.S., with 5,472 fatalities reported.
• Large-truck crashes resulted in 8.3% fewer fatalities and 4.5% fewer injuries in 2023 compared to 2022.

Pennsylvania Statistics

In Pennsylvania alone, trucking accidents are a serious concern:

• In 2023, Pennsylvania reported 6,685 truck-involved crashes, resulting in 138 fatalities.
• These figures indicate that nearly 10% of all traffic deaths in the state are related to large trucks.

Why Legal Representation Matters for Trucking Accidents

Trucking accident claims are different from typical car accident cases. There are more players involved, including trucking companies, corporate insurers, and sometimes even vehicle manufacturers. Having a personal injury attorney on your side can level the playing field and ensure your voice is heard.

Here’s why working with an attorney makes a difference:

• Knowledge in trucking regulations: Understanding federal and state laws governing commercial vehicles.
• Accurate valuation of claims: Considering medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Negotiation skills: Effectively dealing with insurance companies to secure fair settlements.
• Litigation readiness: Preparedness to take the case to court if necessary.

Contact the Best Trucking Accident Lawyers in Pennsylvania

If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident, the most important step you can take is to consult with a knowledgeable attorney. At Georgelis Larsen & Sabatino Injury Law Firm, our team has the experience and dedication needed to stand up to trucking companies and their insurers.

Reach out to our Lancaster personal injury attorneys online or by calling 717-394-3004. The insurance companies have a team of lawyers ready to minimize their financial responsibility after an accident and you deserve the same representation. With a 99% success rate and over $112 million secured for our clients, at Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino Injury Law Firm — Winning… Is No Accident™.

Frequently Asked Questions About Trucking Accidents and Filing a Claim Pennsylvania

Q: What should I do immediately after a trucking accident?
A: Seek medical attention right away, even if you feel fine. Then, report the accident to police, gather evidence (photos, witness information), and consult with a personal injury attorney before speaking with any insurance company.

Q: Who Is liable in a trucking accident?
A: Multiple parties could be responsible, including the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, and even maintenance providers. An experienced attorney can help identify all liable parties.

Q: How is a trucking accident different from a regular car accident?
A: Trucking accidents often involve severe injuries, complex regulations, and multiple stakeholders. These factors make it essential to work with a lawyer who understands the nuances of commercial vehicle law.

Q: What if the trucking company’s insurer contacts me?
A: Politely decline to speak with them and refer them to your attorney. Anything you say could be used to reduce or deny your claim.

Q: How long do I have to file a claim after a trucking accident in Pennsylvania?
A: In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, it’s best to act quickly while evidence is fresh.

Q: What damages can I recover from a trucking accident claim?
A: You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, property damage, pain and suffering, and more. Each case is different, so speak with an attorney to understand your potential recovery.