How Old Republic Handles Truck Accident Claims

Old Republic Insurance Group is a well-known provider of commercial trucking insurance, offering policies designed to protect trucking companies and their drivers. However, if you’ve been injured in an accident involving a truck insured by Old Republic, recovering the compensation you deserve can be challenging. Like most large insurers, Old Republic often employs strategies to minimize payouts, leaving accident victims at a disadvantage.

At Zinda Law Group, we understand the complexities of dealing with insurance companies like Old Republic. This guide outlines how they handle truck accident claims, the potential challenges you may face, and how you can protect your rights and pursue fair compensation.

What Is Old Republic Insurance Group?

Old Republic Insurance Group provides a wide range of commercial trucking insurance products, including:

• Primary Liability Insurance: Covers bodily injury and property damage caused by insured trucks.
• Physical Damage Insurance: Protects the insured vehicle from damage or loss.
• Cargo Insurance: Covers loss or damage to transported goods.
• Excess Liability Insurance: Offers additional coverage beyond standard policy limits.

While these policies are designed to protect trucking companies, they can complicate the claims process for accident victims.

How Does Old Republic Handle Truck Accident Claims?

If you are involved in an accident with a truck insured by Old Republic, their claims process typically includes the following steps:

1. Reporting the Accident

The trucking company or driver insured by Old Republic must report the accident immediately. As the injured party, you may also need to notify Old Republic to initiate your claim.

2. Investigation

Old Republic assigns a claims adjuster to investigate the accident. This process often involves:

• Reviewing police reports and witness statements.
• Examining photos and videos from the accident scene.
• Analyzing black box data, including speed and braking patterns.
• Evaluating driver logs and maintenance records for any potential violations.

3. Determining Fault

The claims adjuster will determine who was at fault for the accident. Old Republic may attempt to argue that you were partially or fully responsible to reduce their liability under comparative negligence rules.

4. Calculating Damages

Old Republic will assess your economic and non-economic damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, initial settlement offers are often lower than the true value of your claim.

5. Settlement Offer

The adjuster will present a settlement offer based on their assessment. If the offer is insufficient, you may need to negotiate or pursue legal action.

Challenges When Negotiating with Old Republic Insurance Group

1. Low Settlement Offers

Initial offers from Old Republic often undervalue the full extent of your damages, particularly future medical costs and non-economic losses.

2. Comparative Negligence Arguments

Old Republic may argue that you share some responsibility for the accident, which could reduce your compensation under comparative negligence laws.

3. Delayed Claim Resolutions

Prolonged negotiations are a common tactic used to pressure victims into accepting lower settlements.

4. Complex Policy Language

Old Republic’s commercial trucking policies often include multiple layers of coverage, which can complicate the claims process.

Steps to Take After a Truck Accident Involving Old Republic

If you’ve been involved in an accident with a truck insured by Old Republic, taking the right steps can protect your claim:

1. Call 911

• Report the accident to law enforcement and ensure that a police report is filed.
• Seek medical attention for any injuries.

2. Document the Scene

• Take photos and videos of the accident site, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
• Collect contact information from the truck driver, witnesses, and responding officers.

3. Seek Medical Attention

• Even minor injuries should be evaluated by a doctor to rule out delayed symptoms or internal injuries.
• Keep detailed records of all medical treatments and related expenses.

4. Avoid Speaking with Adjusters

• Do not provide recorded statements or sign documents from Old Republic adjusters without consulting an attorney.

5. Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer

An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the claims process and advocate for fair compensation.

What Damages Can You Recover?

With the help of an attorney, you may be entitled to compensation for:

1. Economic Damages

• Medical bills and future treatment costs.
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity.
• Property repair or replacement costs.

2. Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering.
• Emotional distress.
• Loss of enjoyment of life.

3. Punitive Damages

In cases involving gross negligence, such as reckless driving or serious regulatory violations, punitive damages may also be available.

How an Attorney Can Help You Deal with Old Republic

Navigating a truck accident claim with Old Republic Insurance Group can be complex and time-consuming. Here’s how an attorney can assist:

1. Conduct a Comprehensive Investigation

Your lawyer will gather evidence, including:

• Police reports and witness statements.
• Black box data and driver logs.
• Maintenance records for the truck involved.

2. Handle Communication

An attorney will manage all interactions with Old Republic’s adjusters, ensuring you don’t make statements that could harm your claim.

3. Negotiate a Fair Settlement

Experienced attorneys understand the tactics insurers use to minimize payouts and will fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

4. File a Lawsuit if Necessary

If Old Republic refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney can take the case to court to advocate on your behalf.

FAQs About Old Republic Truck Accident Claims

1. How Long Does It Take to Settle a Claim?

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case. Simple claims may settle within a few months, while more complex cases involving severe injuries or disputed liability can take over a year.

2. Can I Sue Old Republic Directly?

Under Texas law, you cannot sue the insurance company directly. Instead, you’ll file a claim against the trucking company or driver they insure. A subsequent lawsuit will also be filed against the trucking company and the driver they insure.

3. What If I’m Partially at Fault?

Under Texas’s comparative negligence rule, you can still recover damages as long as you are less than 51% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Call Zinda Law Group Today

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident involving Old Republic Insurance Group, you don’t have to face the claims process alone. Call Zinda Law Group at (800) 863-5312 for a free consultation. Let us help you fight for the compensation you deserve.