Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Truck Insurance Claim

At Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys, we know that after a truck accident, everything can feel like chaos — calls from adjusters, piles of paperwork, and uncertainty about what comes next. Our Louisiana truck accident lawyers help you turn confusion into control. Whether your crash involved an 18-wheeler, delivery truck, or company vehicle, we’ll guide you through every step of your truck insurance claim so you can focus on recovery while we focus on results.

1. Collect Information at the Crash Scene

Every successful truck accident insurance claim begins with strong evidence — and it starts at the scene. Think of yourself as the storyteller of what really happened. Before the moment fades, collect:

• Exact details: the date, time, roadway, and Parish/County where the collision occurred
• Witness accounts: names, phone numbers, and brief statements if possible
• Truck identifiers: license plate, USDOT or MC number, company logo, and vehicle description
• Driver info: name, phone number, employer, and insurance provider
• Company information: trucking business name, policy number, and any visible contact details on the cab or trailer
• Scene photos: pictures of vehicle damage, skid marks, debris, traffic signs, and weather conditions
• Police report: case number, responding officer’s name, and agency

Documenting everything immediately is your first line of defense — especially when the other side has teams protecting their own interests. Solid records now can mean a stronger case later.

2. Contact Your Insurance Company

After you’ve gathered the facts, it’s time to take action. Report the trucking accident to your insurer right away and lay out the details clearly.

• State upfront that the crash involved a commercial truck, big rig, or semi-truck
• Provide your adjuster with all the documentation you collected
• Write down your claim number and the adjuster’s direct contact
• Ask which policy — yours or the trucking company’s — will take the lead
• Note any submission deadlines to avoid missing key dates

Quick communication helps your claim stay credible and on schedule. Waiting too long to report an accident could raise red flags or delay compensation.

3. File an Insurance Claim and Strengthen Your Case

Once your insurance company opens the claim, you’ll need to back every word with proof. Stay organized and consistent.

• Share visuals: submit clear photos and videos of damage and injuries
• Submit reports: include police records, crash diagrams, or investigative notes
• Track treatment: save every doctor visit, physical therapy note, and prescription
• Record financial losses: missed paychecks, repair estimates, and travel costs to appointments
• Keep all communication: log every call, text, or email with insurers and trucking companies
• Meet deadlines: Louisiana law and insurance policies both set strict time limits

Trucking insurance claims are rarely simple. These companies carry massive policies and will fight to protect them. A clear trail of evidence — and consistency in your story — gives your claim the strength it needs to stand up against scrutiny.

4. Work With a Truck Accident Lawyer

When a commercial truck is involved, having the right legal advocate can change everything. Trucking cases aren’t like ordinary fender benders — they involve federal safety rules, driver logs, maintenance records, and multiple layers of insurance coverage.

At Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys, our Louisiana truck accident lawyers dig deep. We know how to uncover missing driver records, expose violations of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) standards, and demand accountability from trucking companies and insurers. You handle healing; we handle everything else.

Common Questions About Filing a Truck Insurance Claim

Will my insurance rates increase if I file a truck insurance claim?

Not always. If the truck driver or company caused the crash, your rates may stay the same. Insurers usually weigh your fault level, driving history, and the size of the claim before making changes.

What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?

You still have options. If the truck driver doesn’t have enough coverage, your uninsured/underinsured motorist policy can help fill the gap. A quick review of your policy—or a conversation with one of our attorneys—can clarify your next move.

How long does it take for my insurance company to process a truck insurance claim?

Simple claims may wrap up in a few weeks. But for serious commercial truck accidents, expect more time. The more complex the injuries and fault disputes, the longer it may take to reach a fair settlement.

What if I’m not satisfied with the settlement offer from my insurance company?

If the offer doesn’t reflect your losses, you don’t have to accept it. You can negotiate for more or, if needed, take legal action. Our team reviews lowball offers daily and knows how to push back with evidence that demands respect.

How much do trucking companies pay in faulty insurance claims?

It depends on the case — injury severity, damages, and liability all play a role. Trucking companies must carry high insurance limits, often in the millions, but insurers may still try to dispute claims. That’s where persistence and proof matter most.

How do I win an insurance claim against a truck driver?

To come out on top, focus on three essentials:

• Evidence that speaks: police reports, camera footage, and witness statements
• Proof of negligence: unsafe driving, poor truck maintenance, or hours-of-service violations
• Legal support: a truck accident attorney who understands how insurance companies operate and won’t back down when they play hardball

Winning isn’t luck — it’s preparation. The stronger your documentation and advocacy, the better your outcome.