Trucking companies try cynical version of "Sorry Works!" program

I recently read a blog posting by Michigan truck accident lawyer Steve Gursten about what he learned at an ABA conference covering the trucking industry.  Apparently the trucking industry is taking a new approach to dealing with the victims of truck accidents.

The post is linked above, but in essence, the trucking industry is trying a cynical version the "Sorry Works!" program that some health care institutions have adopted in attempting to reduce the overall costs of medical malpractice claims.  In essence, when a medical error has occurred, the hospital discloses the error to the victim or family, explains how it occurred, explains what will be done to prevent a recurrence of the problems, and offers to compensate the victim.

The trucking industry's version is not quite so wholesome.  In essence, following a truck accident they send claims personnel to meet with the victim and his family and try to secure a settlement and keep them from hiring a lawyer by apologizing to the family and making early settlement offers.  The point of this is not to provide the victim with fair compensation, but to keep claim costs down.  The difference between the trucking industry's approach and that of health care institutions which have adopted the "Sorry Works!" approach is pretty clear when you review Steve Gursten's blog post.

In trucking accident cases, time is often of the essence.  The driver's log book is often the best evidence that the driver has been running over hours, and this can be destroyed legally within six months of the accident according to federal regulations.  When the trucking company approaches a truck accident victim with an apology and an offer of settlement, that can cause the victim to delay hiring an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer and result in the loss of crucial evidence.

There is a saying, "Beware of Greeks bearing gifts."  This is of course a reference to the Trojan Horse which was presented by the Greeks as a gift to the Trojans.  Of course the horse was stuffed full of Greek warriors who ultimately brought about the destruction of Troy.  The same sentiment should apply to insurance companies who coming bearing smiles and apologies.