How Long Does an 18-Wheeler Claim Take?
If you have been involved in a crash with commercial trucks, the damages you may be entitled to are much higher than those incurred in a car crash. The time frame of your claim and the amount you are awarded depends on two aspects which are the fault and the damage.
18 wheeler accident law firm-Wheeler Automobile Accidents: Causes, and Prevention
Trucking companies employ these vehicles to haul goods across long distances. Consumers rely on these heavy hauls for everything from furniture to food to computers. However, these massive trucks can result in catastrophic accidents when they collide with passenger cars and other large vehicles. The injuries that result from these collisions are typically life-changing.
Many of the causes for 18 wheeler accidents could be prevented. Accidents can be caused due to conditions that are outside of the driver's control for example,
18 wheeler accident poor weather or road conditions, however, they can also be caused by the actions of drivers as well as other participants in an accident.
Distracted driving is the most frequent cause of accidents. This includes drinking, eating, talking or texting on the phone, or even texting. This is especially so when the person who is distracted is behind the wheel of a large vehicle like an 18-wheeler. A semi-truck crash could be caused by reckless driving, like speeding up or tailgating.
Inadequate maintenance of vehicles is a frequent reason for accidents involving
18 wheeler accident law firm wheelers. Trucking companies are responsible for maintaining their vehicles in good condition and ensuring that they are well-maintained. In the absence of this, it could lead to breakdowns such as 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 involving huge trucks often cause severe and life-threatening damages. Therefore, the compensation for victims of a truck crash tends to be more substantial than in other auto accident cases.
Commercial vehicles are more hefty and can cause more damage. It can be a challenge to determine fault in an accident involving trucks. Commercial vehicles are operated by multiple parties and they can try to blame each other for the accident. A lawyer with experience can ensure that all negligent parties are held accountable for their actions, and that every victim is compensated appropriately.
Many accidents involving 18-wheelers happen by drivers who are tired, distracted, or otherwise unobservant to the road. Some drivers might be pressured to deliver their goods in time or under pressure to perform the task. This can lead them to speed up to get there. It takes longer for
18 wheeler accident a truck to stop than an automobile, so an unintentional error in driving could cause disaster when an 18-wheeler is involved.
An attorney can include in the calculation of damages not only medical costs, property losses, and other financial damages as well as non-economic damages such as emotional distress, trauma, and pain and discomfort. By incorporating all of these elements into the settlement, the victim will receive a maximum amount.
Insurance coverage for 18-wheeler accidents
Although trucking companies and their insurers might be tempted to settle, a fair offer must be based on the totality of the costs associated with medical treatment, lost income, property damage, and other damages. It is crucial that victims speak with a Denver
18 wheeler accident lawyer to assist them in proving negligence and secure the highest possible compensation.
Truckers must carry a higher amount of liability insurance than is generally required for passenger vehicles. The type and amount of insurance required will depend on factors like the weight of the vehicle, whether it is transporting hazardous materials, and others.
The majority of truck accident claims are resolved through settlements and the process can be lengthy and arduous because there are multiple parties involved. In addition to the trucking company and its insurer, there are often other negligent parties that cause an accident, including maintenance companies and loading dock workers and others. 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.
In addition to the regular commercial truck insurance policies, there's also optional coverage available which can include specific coverage such as cargo theft protection and specific peril insurance. The latter type of insurance protects a vehicle from damage caused by a certain risk such as fire.
Settlements in 18-Wheeler Accidents
The average truck accident settlement is different because each case is unique in the context of what happened during the crash and who was responsible, and the amount of damage that occurred. It's not common for victims of accidents involving 18-wheelers to receive hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars.
Your Indiana truck accident lawyer will fight to make sure you receive the full and fair compensation that you deserve. They can assist you in calculating your financial and non-financial damages. For instance, you might be suffering from emotional distress or loss in quality of life after an accident involving a semi-truck. This can be as significant as your financial losses, however it may not be immediately apparent to you or your insurance company.
The extent of your injuries will also impact the amount you're awarded. A serious injury could result in a greater settlement, particularly if you're awarded punitive damages for the reckless or unsafe behavior of the party responsible.
It is crucial to engage a truck accident lawyer for this kind of case as the parties responsible will likely try to avoid being held liable by dragging out negotiations or trying to get around the statute of limitations. A good lawyer knows how to spot these efforts and help keep the process moving. They can also help you receive the medical treatment you need and take care of any other issues you may have following the crash caused by an 18-wheeler.