How Long Does an 18-Wheeler Claim Take?
If you have been involved in a crash involving a commercial truck the damages you may be entitled to are much higher than those incurred in a car crash. However, the length of a claim and the you will be compensated is determined by two factors: the fault of the other party and the damages.
18-Wheeler Car Accidents: Causes and Prevention
Trucking companies utilize these vehicles to haul goods over long distances. These large hauls are relied upon by consumers for everything from furniture to computers. These giant trucks can cause serious accidents when they collide into passenger cars or other big vehicles. 18 wheeler accident lawsuit gastonia can cause serious injuries.
Fortunately, many of the causes of accidents involving 18-wheelers can be avoided. These accidents can occur due to conditions that are outside of the driver's control for example, poor road or weather conditions but they could also be caused by the actions of drivers as well as other participants in the collision.
Distracted driving, such as drinking, eating or talking on the phone or texting, is among the leading causes of wrecks. This is particularly so when the person who is distracted is behind the wheel of the largest vehicle, like an 18-wheeler. Driving recklessly, like speeding or tailgating could also lead to a crash with a semi-truck.
A lack of maintenance on vehicles is a major cause of 18-wheeler crashes. Trucking companies are responsible for maintaining their vehicles in good order and ensuring that they are well-maintained. If they don't, it can cause breakdowns, like faulty brakes and tires, or other components that may cause an accident.
Damages resulting from 18-wheeler accidents
While any motor vehicle accident can cause serious injuries, collisions with large trucks usually result in serious and life-threatening injuries. Truck accident victims are compensated more than other auto accident victims.
One of the main reasons for the distinction is that commercial vehicles carry much more weight and are able to cause more damage than conventional passenger automobiles. It can be a challenge to determine the cause of an accident involving trucks. Commercial vehicles are operated by multiple parties, and they might try to blame each other for an accident. An experienced lawyer can help ensure all negligent parties are held accountable for their actions and that each victim receives a fair amount of compensation.
Many 18-wheeler accidents are caused by drivers who are tired, distracted or otherwise not paying attention to the road. They could also be rushed or required to deliver their cargo on time, leading them to speed up to arrive at their destination. It takes longer for a truck to stop than it does for an automobile, so an insignificant error on the road can cause disaster when an 18-wheeler is involved.
An attorney can include in the calculation of damages not just property loss, medical expenses and other financial losses but also non-economic damage like emotional distress, trauma and pain and discomfort. By including all of these elements the amount a victim receives can be increased.
Insurance coverage for 18-wheeler accidents
Insurance companies and trucking companies corporations may want to settle. However any fair settlement must include all the victims' losses, including medical bills, lost income, and property damage. It is imperative that victims speak with a Denver 18-wheeler accident lawyer to prove negligence and get the maximum compensation.
Because the risks of 18-wheeler accidents are important, truckers are required to carry liability insurance that is far more extensive than what is typically required for passenger vehicles. The type and amount of insurance required will be contingent on factors such as the weight of the vehicle, if it is hauling dangerous materials, and others.
Most truck accident claims are settled through settlements, and the process can be lengthy and arduous because there are many parties involved. Maintenance companies, dock workers, and other negligent parties may also contribute to an accident. All of these parties are held to a responsibility to inspect and maintain their trucks and could be held accountable for accidents that occur due to their carelessness.
There are also options for coverage that provide specific coverage, such as cargo theft insurance or specified peril coverage. This insurance protects a car against the damage that results from a specific hazard, such as fire.
Settlements for 18-Wheeler accident settlements
The settlement for a truck crash varies widely because every case is different in the context of what happened in the crash as well as who was accountable and the amount of damage. It's not uncommon for victims of accidents involving 18-wheelers to recover hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars.
Your Indiana truck accident lawyer will fight to ensure you get the fair and full compensation you deserve. They can help you estimate your financial losses, as well as non-financial losses. For instance, you may suffer from emotional distress or a loss in quality of life after an accident with semi-truck. This could be as significant as your financial losses, but may not be immediately apparent to you or the insurance company.
Another factor that can affect the amount you can expect to be awarded is the extent to which you were injured in the accident. A serious injury could result in a greater amount of compensation, especially if the court awards punitive damages for the reckless or unsafe conduct of the person responsible.
It is essential to find a lawyer for truck accidents for this type of case because the parties in charge will likely attempt to avoid being held accountable by making negotiations a drag or by trying to pass the statute of limitations. A good lawyer will know how to spot these attempts and keep the process moving forward. They can also help you receive the medical treatment you require and address any other needs you might have after a crash with an 18-wheeler.