Tips for Negotiating a Fair Settlement with Travelers After an 18-Wheeler Accident

If you’ve been involved in an 18-wheeler accident and need to file a claim with Travelers Insurance, it’s essential to understand how to negotiate effectively. Travelers is one of the largest commercial trucking insurers, and like most insurance companies, their primary goal is to pay as little as possible on claims.

Without a strategic approach, you risk receiving less than what you deserve. This guide provides key tips for negotiating a fair settlement with Travelers after a truck accident and explains how to protect your claim from common insurance tactics.

At Zinda Law Group, we help truck accident victims fight for the maximum compensation possible.

1. Know the Full Value of Your Claim

Before starting negotiations with Travelers, determine the true value of your case, including:

• Medical Expenses – Emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and long-term medical costs
• Lost Wages – Compensation for missed work and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and Suffering – Emotional distress, PTSD, and long-term physical pain
• Property Damage – The cost to repair or replace your vehicle

Travelers will likely start with a low settlement offer, hoping you’ll accept without questioning it. Never settle without consulting a truck accident lawyer to ensure your claim is properly valued.

2. Don’t Accept the First Offer

Travelers’ initial settlement offer is almost always much lower than your claim’s true value.

• Politely reject the first offer
• Request a written explanation of how they calculated the settlement
• Submit a counteroffer with supporting documentation such as medical records, lost wage statements, and repair estimates

A strong counteroffer increases your chances of securing a fair settlement.

3. Collect Strong Evidence to Support Your Claim

The stronger your evidence, the harder it is for Travelers to undervalue your claim. Essential evidence includes:

• Police Reports – Official documentation of the accident
• Medical Records – Proof of injuries and treatment plans
• Witness Statements – Testimonies from people who saw the crash
• Accident Scene Photos & Videos – Documentation of vehicle damage, road conditions, and injuries
• Black Box Data – Many 18-wheelers record speed, braking, and driver behavior

Tip: Commercial trucks must comply with FMCSA safety regulations. If Travelers’ insured driver violated federal trucking laws, this can strengthen your claim.

4. Avoid Giving a Recorded Statement

Travelers’ adjusters may ask for a recorded statement, but you are not legally required to provide one.

• Do not admit fault or minimize your injuries
• Request all communication in writing
• Let your attorney handle direct negotiations

Insurance companies use recorded statements to limit their liability and reduce your payout.

5. Be Patient and Expect Delays

Travelers may delay the settlement process to pressure you into accepting a lower offer. If negotiations take time, don’t rush.

• Be patient and firm in your demands
• Continue medical treatment to document the full extent of your injuries
• Work with an attorney to ensure your claim isn’t unfairly delayed

If Travelers refuses to offer fair compensation, your lawyer can file a lawsuit and take the case to court.

6. Work with an Experienced Travelers Truck Accident Attorney

Negotiating with Travelers after an 18-wheeler accident is challenging without legal representation. Their adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, but an attorney can:

• Determine the full value of your claim
• Handle all communication with Travelers’ insurance adjusters
• Gather expert evidence to strengthen your case
• Negotiate aggressively for maximum compensation

At Zinda Law Group, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win.

Take Action Today

If you’re negotiating with Travelers after an 18-wheeler accident, don’t settle for less than you deserve.

Call (800) 863-5312 today for a free consultation.