Navigating Insurance Challenges After a Trucking Accident
Accidents can be distressing experiences, especially when dealing with the aftermath involving insurance claims. Recently, we encountered a situation that many might find themselves in—a small collision with a trucker that has evolved into a tangled web of insurance complexities.
The Incident
While traveling on the highway, my father-in-law’s vehicle was involved in a minor accident when a truck driver merged over double solid lines directly into their lane. The result? An estimated $11,000 in damages. Initially, it appeared as though the incident could be resolved through the driver’s insurance, which was promptly provided along with photographic evidence.
The Shocking Discovery
Upon reaching out to the insurance provider, we learned that the trucker’s policy had been terminated two months before the accident. This revelation was alarming. To further investigate, I contacted the trucking company’s manager, but my attempts to discuss the situation were unsuccessful, as he continually postponed our conversations.
Digging deeper, I consulted the Department of Transportation (DOT) website and discovered that the only active insurance policy listed for the trucking company was with Geico Marine. Based on insights from various sources, it seems that some companies resort to such policies to circumvent the obligatory minimum insurance requirements, all while remaining on record as a licensed provider.
Adding to the confusion, I noted that the trucking company filed their MCS-150 form just three days following the accident—quite suspicious, indeed.
The Dilemma
Now, it raises several questions: What is their endgame? Are they hoping to drag this out until we simply forget? Should we seek legal advice or send them a certified letter demanding payment? Or perhaps we should consider filing a lawsuit immediately?
Compounding matters further is the fact that my father-in-law was also driving for Uber at the time of the incident. He holds full coverage but has not notified his insurance company about his Uber activities. While he does carry what is presumed to be Uber insurance, there’s uncertainty surrounding its applicability in this scenario.
The predicament lies in the fear of approaching our own insurance—as there’s a lingering concern they might drop our coverage or refuse the claim since the accident took place during an Uber ride.
Moving Forward
With numerous questions and potential paths ahead, one crucial thought lingers: is it likely that the trucking company possesses additional insurance that isn’t disclosed? Should
