Navigating Insurance Issues After a Trucking Accident: A Guide for Victims
Accidents involving commercial vehicles can quickly become complex, especially when it comes to insurance. Recently, we faced a challenging situation following a minor highway collision caused by a trucker who merged into our vehicle without proper regard for the road’s markings. The resulting damage is estimated at approximately $11,000, creating added stress in an already difficult situation.
The Complications of Insurance
After the accident, I obtained the truck driver’s insurance details and took a photo for our records. However, my subsequent inquiry revealed that the policy had been terminated two months prior to the incident. When I escalated the issue to the driver’s manager at the trucking company, I received little in the way of cooperation. The manager advised me to call back when he was available, and currently, he seems to be sidestepping my attempts to reach him.
In further research through the DOT’s website, I discovered that the trucking company’s only active insurance policy is with Geico Marine. This raises concerns, as some companies use such policies to maintain their active status without truly covering their vehicles in transit. To add to the confusion, they filed their MCS-150 three days post-accident, which only further complicates the issue.
What Should We Do Next?
Given this frustrating experience, I’m left wondering about the company’s motives. Are they attempting to delay the process in hopes that we will abandon our claim? It’s crucial to consider the options available to us as we navigate this situation.
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Seeking Legal Advice: Should I consult with a lawyer immediately, or is it premature? Legal professionals can provide invaluable guidance on the best course of action, especially in situations where insurance issues arise.
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Certified Communication: Would it be advisable to send a certified letter requesting the estimated damages? This creates a formal record of the claim and can potentially expedite their response.
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Filing a Lawsuit: Is it prudent to initiate legal proceedings right now, or should I practice patience and give the company some time to respond?
Additional Considerations
Additionally, my father-in-law, who was driving at the time of the accident, holds full coverage insurance but was also driving for Uber. He hasn’t informed his insurer about this fact. Although it’s possible he has Uber insurance, I’m uncertain about its applicability to this incident.
My concern about making a claim with our insurance stems from
