Role of Insurance Companies in 18 Wheeler Collisions - Laredo TX Accident Attorneys

Laredo has been nicknamed “The Gateway City” due to its direct access to Mexico. That access has also made Port Laredo one of the busiest ports in the nation, shipping goods between the two countries daily and putting many commercial vehicles on Laredo roads. While motorists are accustomed to sharing the road with 18-wheelers, the massive trucks increase Laredo’s crash risk.

The size and weight of 18-wheelers create a dangerous situation for drivers of smaller vehicles. The Laredo TX injury lawyers at Carabin Shaw frequently see the consequences of these collisions. We protect victims from insurance companies seeking to reduce or deny accident claims. If you have been injured, contact us at 800-862-1260 and speak to one of our Spanish- or English-speaking professionals. We are available 24/7 for a free case review.

Texas led the country in truck crashes in 2023. Insurance coverage is critical to compensate thousands of crash victims for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. Texas law requires all commercial vehicles to have basic liability coverage for damages and injuries incurred in accidents. The amount varies based on the vehicle and cargo, but all truck drivers and their employers must carry it.

Despite the requirements, insurance companies work hard to pay accident victims as little as possible after Laredo truck collisions. They employ numerous tactics to try to minimize or deny accident claims, such as:

• Offering low-ball settlements soon after the accident
• Using delay tactics to frustrate claimants and extend the process
• Refusing to negotiate initially after refusal of a low-ball offer
• Disputing liability for the accident, often claiming the victim was at fault
• Using a victim’s own words to minimize injuries or question liability

An experienced attorney is familiar with all these tactics and will protect accident victims from falling prey to them. That's why contacting a personal injury firm before dealing with insurance companies is critical to ensure your rights are protected throughout the process. Never speak to a representative from the insurance carrier or accept a settlement offer without speaking to a member of your legal team first.

An insurance claim is a straightforward process. You provide information about the accident, vehicle damage, and your injuries, and the insurance carrier responds with a fair compensation amount. Unfortunately, this process is not as straightforward as it appears.

When you file a claim, the insurance carrier assigns an adjuster to investigate the accident and assess your damages. The adjuster will use evidence like police reports, witness testimonies, and medical records to establish the extent of their client’s liability. Your attorney will gather the same evidence, plus records from the trucking company, like driver and maintenance logs, to build your case.

The primary purpose of the adjuster is to protect their company’s bottom line, so they will look for ways to reduce or deny your claim. Your lawyer’s job is to protect your interests, ensuring you receive all the compensation you deserve under the law. An experienced legal team is critical to maximizing your damages after a semi-truck accident in Laredo.

When you file a claim after an 18-wheeler crash, you may face a large trucking company with massive resources, including a full legal team. Without your own legal representation, you will be at a decided disadvantage. Don’t let the trucking company and their insurance carrier determine how much compensation you are entitled to receive. Contact the compassionate team at Carabin Shaw today.

We offer our services on a contingency-fee-basis, so you don’t pay anything upfront or out-of-pocket. We will deal directly with the insurance companies so you can focus on your recovery. Check our client reviews to see how we maximize damages for accident victims like you. Then call us toll-free at 800-862-1260.

For more information:

• The Trucker
• TX Register