Every motor vehicle operating on public roads in California should have liability insurance coverage. After a semi-truck collision, the people injured in the crash or adjusting to a loved one’s passing may expect to file a simple insurance claim. However, the process may be far more contentious and complicated than they expect.
Why are semi-truck insurance claims different from claims against the coverage carried by passenger vehicle operators?
Insurance requirements are vastly different
The size of the insurance policy is the primary difference between a commercial truck policy and a standard automotive policy. California requires $15,000 in property damage liability coverage. Drivers also need to carry $30,000 in bodily injury coverage if they injure one person or $60,000 in coverage for single events that injure two or more people.
The baseline requirements for commercial policies are more than 10 times higher than that. Semi-trucks and other commercial vehicles must adhere to federal requirements that mandate $750,000 or more in liability coverage. With a much larger loss possible, insurance professionals are much more likely to negotiate aggressively during a commercial vehicle collision claim.
The major injuries and significant property damage losses possible after a semi-truck crash are also easy for people to underestimate. Failing to consider the long-term implications of the situation can result in individuals accepting inadequate settlements that are far less than their total losses and the policy coverage available.
People seeking compensation after semi-truck collisions may need help as they review insurance information and prepare for negotiations. Acquiring legal guidance can help people involved in semi-truck collisions more fully cover their losses.
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