Virginia law requires that law enforcement be notified anytime an accident results in a serious injury or death. It’s generally advisable to make a written report, so there’s a physical record of you doing so.

Once law enforcement has been notified, your next step is communication with an insurance adjuster, both from your own insurer and from the opposing party’s insurer. In truck accident claims, there may be multiple at-fault parties and a complex web of insurance involved.

It is best to have an experienced attorney handle all communication with the insurance companies.

As treatment for your injuries progresses, your attorney will document your losses in detail. This will help determine how much a fair settlement should be.

As your claim moves forward, you’ll share whatever evidence you and your legal team have gathered to show how the responsible party is liable for your injuries, along with an initial compensation offer.

Settlement negotiations take time, and they’ll end in one of two ways. If your attorney and the opposing insurer can reach an agreement, you’ll receive your compensation through a truck accident settlement. If the opposing insurer does not make a fair offer, the case will go to trial.