Atlanta Truck Accident Lawsuits Vs. An Insurance Settlement: Which Is Better
Truck accidents in Atlanta often leave victims with debilitating personal injuries, leading to extensive medical debts, lost income, and other costs. When the reckless behavior of truckers, trucking companies, or others involved is responsible, you have the right to seek compensation, either through insurers or by filing a Georgia truck accident lawsuit.
While many truck accident claims settle, understanding the difference and the potential benefits of litigation can help in maximizing your compensation. Our experienced Atlanta truck accident lawyers explain what you need to know.
Settling an Atlanta Truck Accident Claim: Pros and Pitfalls Of Going Through Insurers
When you suffer truck accident injuries in Atlanta, the Georgia Code allows up to two years to file a claim. In most cases, the first step is negotiating with the trucking company and its insurer.
Unfortunately, trucking companies and insurers often dispute claims. Common challenges you are likely to face when trying to negotiate a reasonable settlement include:
- Lowball offers that don’t cover future expenses.
- Blame-shifting, in which the trucking company argues that you were partially at fault.
- Complex liability, in which multiple parties (drivers, employers, contractors) are at fault.
- Stalling and delays, used to force a lower settlement.
These tactics can leave Atlanta truck accident victims and their families feeling powerless. Fortunately, if a settlement offer fails to cover your losses, you may be entitled to take your case to court.
When Filing An Atlanta Truck Accident Lawsuit Makes Sense and What It Involves
Filing a truck accident lawsuit through the Georgia Courts sounds intimidating, but it doesn’t always mean going to trial. In many cases, litigation puts pressure on the trucking company and can motivate it to make a better offer. However, circumstances in which filing a lawsuit might be in your best interests include:
- You suffered severe injuries as a result of an Atlanta truck accident.
- The trucking company and its insurer deny or dispute your claim.
- It allows you to gather additional evidence, including trucking logs, black box data, and statements from trucking company employees.
- There are multiple parties at fault for your crash.
- You share a portion of the blame.
In addition to payment of property damages, medical expenses, and lost income, a Georgia truck accident lawsuit also entitles you to seek compensation for non-economic and punitive damages, resulting in a larger settlement.
To Get The Maximum Amount In Your Claim, Contact Our Atlanta Truck Accident Lawyers
At Shiver Hamilton, LLC, we protect victims of truck accidents in Georgia and fight for the maximum amount they are entitled to in a claim. Whether you were hurt in a crash on I-285, I-75, or other busy roads throughout the state, we can help you weigh your options and make an informed decision about whether to settle or sue.
Our office proudly serves clients in Alpharetta, Sandy Springs, Marietta, Roswell, Decatur, Johns Creek, and throughout DeKalb, Fulton, and Gwinnett counties. Contact our experienced Atlanta truck accident lawyers today to schedule a consultation.
Source:
ga.elaws.us/law/9-3%7C2
