Steps to Protect Your Rights After a Commercial Vehicle Accident

After a crash involving a company or delivery vehicle, it’s critical to take the right steps from day one. Large corporations and their insurers move quickly to limit their exposure—you should move just as fast to protect yourself.

1. Get Immediate Medical Care

Even if you feel fine, get checked. Some injuries appear later, and prompt medical documentation strengthens your claim.

2. Don’t Speak to the Company’s Insurance Adjuster Alone

Their goal is to protect their company—not you. Politely decline recorded statements until you’ve spoken with your attorney.

3. Preserve All Evidence

Keep copies of your police report, photos, and medical bills. If possible, note the company name and any vehicle or trailer identification numbers.

4. Follow Medical Advice

Attend every appointment and follow your treatment plan. Missed visits can hurt both your recovery and your case.

5. Hire an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer

A lawyer familiar with commercial accident litigation can:

  • Send preservation letters to prevent evidence destruction

  • Identify all liable parties and insurance coverages

  • Handle communication with corporate lawyers and adjusters

  • Negotiate or litigate for full compensation

You don’t have to take on a trucking or delivery company by yourself.
Contact Persinger Law Firm for a free consultation. We’ll make sure your rights are protected and your case gets the attention it deserves.

What Makes Commercial Auto Accident Claims More Complex

If you’ve been in a crash with a company vehicle, you may notice the process feels very different from a typical car accident claim. There’s a reason for that: commercial claims involve more players, more insurance policies, and more legal challenges.

Multiple Defendants

A single commercial accident can involve the driver, the employer, a leasing company, a maintenance provider, and more. Each may point fingers at the others to avoid paying.

Corporate Insurance Policies

Commercial insurance policies often carry higher limits—but that doesn’t mean the insurer will pay easily. Expect aggressive defense strategies designed to minimize payouts.

Extensive Evidence

Commercial vehicles may have electronic logging devices (ELDs), GPS data, or on-board cameras. These can reveal speeding, hours worked, or distraction—but companies sometimes delay or resist sharing this evidence.

Federal and State Regulations

Commercial carriers must follow strict safety rules. Violating these can help establish negligence, but proving it often requires detailed records, logbooks, and expert analysis.

Serious Injuries and Higher Stakes

Because of their size and weight, commercial vehicles cause more severe injuries—and higher financial losses. These cases often require expert witnesses, medical evaluations, and structured settlements.

Complex cases need experienced guidance.
Call Persinger Law Firm to discuss your commercial accident claim. We’ll handle the details so you can focus on healing.

Common Causes of Commercial Vehicle Crashes

When a commercial vehicle is involved in a crash, it’s rarely “just an accident.” Many are caused by preventable factors—and identifying the cause is key to proving liability.

Driver Fatigue

Commercial drivers often work long shifts. Even slight fatigue can slow reaction times or lead to falling asleep behind the wheel. Federal regulations limit how long truck drivers can be on duty, but violations are common.

Distracted Driving

Cell phone use, dispatch messages, GPS navigation, and eating on the go all lead to split-second distractions—and serious consequences.

Poor Vehicle Maintenance

Companies are required to maintain their vehicles. Bald tires, faulty brakes, or broken lights are all warning signs of negligence.

Overloaded or Improperly Secured Cargo

When a load shifts suddenly, even a skilled driver can lose control. These cases often involve shippers or third-party logistics companies.

Reckless Driving and Speeding

Commercial vehicles require more distance to stop safely. Speeding or tailgating in a large vehicle multiplies the risk of severe injuries in a crash.

Inadequate Training

Companies must ensure drivers are qualified to handle their vehicles safely. Poor or rushed training programs often contribute to avoidable accidents.

If negligence caused your injury, accountability matters.
 Contact Persinger Law Firm for a free, no-obligation consultation—we’ll investigate what went wrong and fight to hold the responsible parties accountable.

Who’s Liable in a Commercial Auto Accident?

One of the biggest challenges in a commercial vehicle accident is determining who’s actually responsible. It’s not always just the driver—liability can extend to several parties depending on how the crash occurred.

The Driver

If the driver was negligent—texting, speeding, or violating traffic laws—they can be personally liable. However, when they’re on the job, their employer usually shares that responsibility.

The Employer or Company

Under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are generally responsible for their employees’ actions when those actions happen “within the scope of employment.” That means if a delivery driver causes a crash while making a scheduled stop, the company may be liable.

The Vehicle Owner

If the vehicle was leased or rented, the owner might share responsibility for maintenance issues or mechanical defects.

Maintenance or Equipment Providers

Sometimes, faulty brakes, tires, or lights play a role. The company that maintained or serviced the truck could be partly at fault.

Cargo Loaders or Shippers

Improperly secured or overloaded cargo can cause trucks to overturn or lose control. In those cases, liability may trace back to whoever loaded or inspected the shipment.

Why It Matters

More than one insurance policy may apply—commercial auto, general liability, and even product liability coverage. An experienced attorney can identify every responsible party to help maximize your recovery.

Liability isn’t always simple—but we can help you untangle it.
Contact Persinger Law Firm for a free consultation if you’ve been injured in a commercial vehicle accident.

What to Do After a Commercial Vehicle Accident

Accidents involving commercial vehicles—like delivery trucks, company cars, or tractor-trailers—are different from typical fender benders. Multiple parties may be involved, and the insurance process can get complicated fast. Knowing what to do right away can protect both your health and your legal rights.

1. Get Medical Help First

Your health comes first. Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, get checked by a doctor. Commercial vehicles are heavy, and even “minor” impacts can cause internal injuries or delayed symptoms.

2. Report the Accident

Call 911 and make sure an official report is filed. That documentation is essential when dealing with company insurers or corporate defense lawyers later.

3. Gather Information

If it’s safe, collect:

  • The driver’s name, employer, and vehicle number

  • Company name and contact information

  • License plate and insurance details

  • Photos or video of damage, skid marks, road signs, and injuries

Note anything that might show the driver was distracted or fatigued—these details can be critical in proving fault.

4. Be Careful What You Say

Avoid discussing fault or making offhand comments like “I’m okay.” Insurance companies and corporate attorneys may later use these statements against you. Stick to facts only.

5. Contact an Attorney Early

Commercial carriers often have teams of lawyers and adjusters working to limit their liability from day one. Having your own advocate ensures your rights—and your potential claim—are protected from the start.

If you’ve been hit by a company or commercial vehicle, don’t face their insurance team alone.
Call Persinger Law Firm for a free consultation to discuss your options and next steps.

Understanding the Personal Injury Lawsuit Timeline: What to Expect

Many people who’ve been injured wonder the same thing: How long will my case take—and will it go to trial?
 Here’s a look at what typically happens in a personal injury lawsuit from start to finish.

Step 1: Consultation and Case Review

Your attorney reviews what happened, your injuries, and the evidence available. Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee, meaning you pay nothing unless your case succeeds.

Step 2: Investigation and Pre-Filing Work

Your legal team gathers medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and expert opinions. A demand letter may be sent to the insurance company to try for an early settlement.

Step 3: Filing the Lawsuit

If no settlement is reached, your attorney files a formal complaint in court. The defendant then has a set time to respond.

Step 4: Discovery

Both sides exchange evidence through written questions, document requests, and depositions.
 This stage often takes several months—and it’s where cases are built or broken.

Step 5: Pre-Trial and Mediation

Before trial, the court may require mediation—a structured negotiation to see if the case can be resolved without going to court. Many cases settle here.

Step 6: Trial

If no settlement is reached, the case goes before a judge or jury. Both sides present evidence, witnesses, and arguments before a verdict is reached.

Step 7: Appeal (If Necessary)

If one side believes a legal error occurred, they may appeal to a higher court. This can extend the process further.

How Long Does It Take?

  • Simple cases: 6–12 months

  • Moderate cases: 1–2 years

  • Complex or catastrophic injuries: 2+ years

While this timeline can feel long, many cases resolve before trial.

Patience pays off—especially with the right advocate on your side.
 If you’ve been injured, contact Persinger Law Firm for a free consultation. We’ll walk you through every stage of the process and fight for the outcome you deserve.

How Insurance Adjusters Evaluate Your Claim — and What You Should Know

After an accident, you might assume the insurance company will simply “do what’s right.” Unfortunately, it’s rarely that simple. Insurance adjusters evaluate your claim with their company’s interests in mind—not yours. Knowing how they operate can help you protect yourself.

What Adjusters Look At

Insurance adjusters review each claim by assessing:

  • Liability: Who’s at fault, and can it be proven?

     

  • Injury severity: How serious and long-lasting are the injuries?

     

  • Causation: Did the accident directly cause your injuries?

     

  • Damages: How much do medical bills, lost income, and suffering add up to?

     

  • Risk of trial: How likely are you (and your attorney) to take the case to court?

     

Common Tactics Insurance Companies Use

  • Quick, low offers: They may try to settle before you know the full extent of your injuries.

     

  • Delays: Hoping you’ll get frustrated and accept less.

     

  • Recorded statements: Questions can be phrased in ways that hurt your claim later.

     

  • Disputing causation: Suggesting your injuries existed before the accident.

     

  • Downplaying pain: Claiming your injuries were “minor” or “temporary.”

     

How to Protect Yourself

  • Wait until you finish treatment—or know your long-term prognosis—before settling.

     

  • Keep thorough documentation of your medical care and daily impact.

     

  • Be truthful but careful with what you share.

     

  • Let your lawyer handle most communication with insurance companies.

The Bottom Line

Adjusters are professionals trained to save their company money. Having a skilled personal injury attorney on your side levels the playing field and ensures your case is valued fairly.

Before you sign or settle, talk to someone who’s on your side.
Schedule a free consultation with Persinger Law Firm to make sure you’re getting the full compensation you deserve.

Steps to Take Immediately After an Injury (Before Talking to Insurance)

When you’ve been injured, the hours and days that follow are some of the most important for protecting your health and your legal rights. What you do now can make a major difference later—especially when it comes to dealing with insurance companies.

1. Get Medical Attention Right Away

Even if you think you’re “okay,” some injuries don’t show symptoms right away. See a doctor as soon as possible, follow all medical advice, and keep copies of every record, prescription, and receipt. Prompt treatment also helps link your injuries directly to the incident—something insurance companies look closely at.

2. Document the Scene

If it’s safe to do so:

  • Take photos or videos of the scene, vehicles, or hazards.

     

  • Note weather, lighting, and location details.

     

  • Collect names and contact info for any witnesses.

     

These small steps can make a big difference when you’re proving what happened later.

3. Notify the Right People

Report the accident to the property owner, manager, employer, or local authorities—whoever is appropriate for your situation. Stick to the facts, avoid speculation, and don’t admit fault.

4. Be Cautious with Insurance Adjusters

Insurance companies may call quickly after an accident. Remember, their goal is to minimize payouts—not necessarily to help you. Don’t give a recorded statement, sign anything, or accept a settlement before speaking with an attorney.

5. Keep Track of Everything

Save all medical bills, receipts, out-of-pocket expenses, and records of time missed from work. Write down how your injuries impact your daily life—pain, sleep, mobility, or emotional wellbeing. These details help demonstrate the true value of your claim.

6. Call a Personal Injury Attorney Early

The sooner you talk with an experienced lawyer, the better. They can help preserve evidence, deal with insurers, and ensure nothing jeopardizes your potential claim.

If you’ve been injured, don’t go it alone.

Contact Persinger Law Firm for a free consultation. We’ll review your situation, protect your rights, and help you move forward with confidence.

What to Do After a Car Accident in West Virginia

What to Do After a Car Accident in West Virginia

Car accidents can be overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with a minor collision or a major crash, the steps you take immediately afterward can significantly impact your health, finances, and any future legal claims.

After a Crash

  • Check for injuries and call 911
  • Exchange contact and insurance information
  • Take photos and notes at the scene
  • Seek medical attention, even if you feel okay
  • Notify your insurance company

It’s also important to avoid making any statements that could be used against you later. Even a simple “I’m sorry” can be misinterpreted as an admission of fault. If you’re unsure about what to do next or how to protect yourself legally, it may be time to speak with someone who can guide you through the process.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Contact Persinger & Persinger to discuss the details of your situation.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in West Virginia

From city streets to winding mountain roads, crashes happen across West Virginia every day. While the circumstances vary, many share common root causes that determine who is at fault.

Top Causes of Crashes:

  • Distracted driving
  • Speeding or aggressive driving
  • Driving under the influence
  • Running red lights or stop signs
  • Slick roads or poor visibility

When one driver’s negligence leads to another person’s injury, it’s important to understand your rights. Identifying the cause of the crash helps establish liability and lays the groundwork for pursuing a claim.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Contact Persinger & Persinger for legal insight based on your circumstances.