How Do You Open Settlement Negotiations With a Truck Company After a Crash?

Eighteen wheeler crashes happen every day. The Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle (FLHSMV) reports that there are between 30,000 and 40,000 commercial truck crashes reported statewide each year. If you were involved in a crash, you need compensation to pay your bills and support yourself economically. Most truck accident claims are settled—but opening negotiations can often be a challenge. A lawyer can help. Here, our West Palm Beach semi-truck accident attorney provides a guide to opening settlement negotiations with a truck company after a crash in Florida.

 Form the Case: Gather and Preserve All Evidence from the Truck Accident 

All successful claims are built on a strong foundation of evidence. Strong evidence is key to successful settlement negotiations. Before opening any settlement negotiations with a trucking company, it is crucial to collect and organize all relevant evidence. You should preserve photographs of the crash scene, police reports, witness statements, medical records, repair estimates, and anything else that supports your claim.

 Know the Value of Your Damages (Economic and Non-Economic)

 You cannot effectively negotiate a truck accident settlement unless you know the true value of your case. In Florida, you have the right to seek compensation for economic damages—like medical bills, lost income, and property damage—as well as non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering and emotional distress. Your damages should be carefully documented after a truck accident.

 Draft and Send a Demand Letter (Attorney Should Write a Demand Letter) 

You should consult with an experienced Florida truck accident lawyer as soon as possible after a crash—before you provide any statement to a truck company or an insurance company. The formal beginning of settlement negotiations is almost always marked by sending a demand letter to the trucking company and/or its insurer.

Among other things, the letter demands to clearly explain how the accident occurred, why the truck driver or trucking company is liable, and the extent of your damages. It should typically include some supporting documentation. The tone should be professional but firm. A well-crafted demand letter not only opens negotiations but also sets the stage for your legal argument.

Truck Accident Tip: A demand letter should be drafted by an attorney. 

You Should Be Ready for a Counteroffer—a Patient Approach is Best 

After the demand letter is received, the trucking company—or, more likely, its insurer—will typically respond with a counteroffer. Unfortunately, that initial offer will often be lower than what you deserve—especially early in the process. Avoid the temptation to accept a quick settlement that is not a fair offer. You can negotiate for additional financial compensation.

 Call Our West Palm Beach Commercial Truck Accident Lawyer Today

At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our West Palm Beach commercial truck accident attorney is an aggressive, experienced advocate for justice. If you were hurt in a serious accident, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a free case assessment. From our West Palm Beach office and our Miami office, we fight for justice for injured victims throughout all of Southeast Florida.

Source:

flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2023.pdf