How Long Does an 18-Wheeler Claim Take?
If you've been in a crash with a commercial truck, the damages you may be entitled to are more than what you would receive in a typical car crash. The amount of time you can claim and the amount you get is contingent on two elements such as fault and damage.
Causes of 18-wheeler accidents
Companies that transport goods use these trucks to haul goods over long distances. These large transports are relied on by customers for everything from furniture to computer equipment. However, these huge trucks can lead to catastrophic accidents when they collide with passenger cars and other large vehicles. These collisions could cause serious injuries.
Many of the causes of 18 wheeler accidents can be prevented. These accidents can occur because of circumstances beyond the control of the driver like poor road or weather conditions but they can also be caused by the actions of drivers and other people involved in a crash.
Distracted driving is the most frequent cause of accidents. This includes drinking, eating, talking or texting on the phone, and even texting. This is especially relevant when the driver is driving a large vehicle like an 18-wheeler. A semi-truck crash could also be caused by aggressive driving, such as speeding up or tailgating.
Poor vehicle maintenance is a major cause of 18 wheeler accidents. Trucking companies have a duty to ensure that their vehicles are well-maintained and in good working order. If they don't, it can lead to breakdowns like faulty brakes, tires, and other components that could lead to an accident.
Damages from 18-wheeler accidents
While any motor vehicle crash can result in serious injuries, collisions involving large trucks often result in devastating and life-threatening damages. Truck crash victims are compensated better than other victims of auto accidents.
One of the main reasons for the distinction is that commercial vehicles carry much more weight and can cause more damage than traditional passenger automobiles. In addition, it could be more difficult to determine who is at fault in a truck-related accident. Commercial vehicles are controlled by multiple parties and they can try to blame one another for the accident. A knowledgeable lawyer can help ensure that all parties who are negligent are accountable for their actions and that each victim is compensated adequately.
Many 18-wheeler crashes are caused by drivers that are fatigued, distracted or otherwise not paying attention to the road. They could also be rushed or pressured to get their loads in time, which causes them to rush to arrive at their destination. It takes longer for trucks to stop than it does for a car, so even a minor driving error can lead to catastrophe when an 18-wheeler is involved.
When calculating damages, an attorney can include not only the cost of medical treatment, property loss, and other financial losses but additionally non-economic damages like emotional distress, trauma, and suffering and pain. By incorporating all these factors, a victim's settlement will be maximized.
Insurance Coverage for 18-Wheeler accidents
Although trucking companies and their insurers might be tempted to settle an acceptable offer, it is important to take into consideration all the costs associated with medical treatment loss of income, property damage, and other damages. It is crucial that victims work with a Denver 18 wheeler accident lawyer to assist them in proving negligence and receive the maximum compensation.
Truckers are required to carry a higher level of liability insurance than usually required for passenger vehicles. The amount and type of insurance required will depend on factors like the weight of the vehicle, whether it's transporting hazardous materials, and others.
The majority of truck-related accident claims are settled via settlements. This process can be lengthy and complicated because multiple parties are involved. Maintenance dock workers, dock companies, and other negligent parties could be a factor in an accident. Each of these parties has the obligation to inspect and maintain their trucks. They could also be held liable for accidents that occur because of their negligence.
There are other options for coverage that include specific coverage, such as cargo theft insurance and specific peril coverage. The latter type of insurance covers a vehicle from the damage caused by a particular risk, like fire.
Settlements for 18-Wheeler accidents
The amount that a victim can receive for a collision with a truck is different because each case is unique in the context of the crash, the liability and damage. It is not common for victims of accidents involving 18-wheelers to receive hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars.
Your Indiana truck accident attorney will fight to ensure you get the full and fair compensation that you deserve. They can help you determine both your financial and 18 wheeler accident non-financial losses. For instance, you may be suffering from emotional distress or loss of quality of life after an accident with semi-truck. This could be as important as the financial losses however it might not be immediately visible to you or the insurance company.
Another factor that can affect the amount you might receive is the degree to which you were injured in the accident. A serious injury can cause a bigger recovery particularly if the damages are deemed punitive due to the reckless or dangerous behavior of the responsible party.
It is important to employ a truck accident lawyer for this kind of case as the parties at fault are likely to try to avoid being held accountable by making negotiations a drag or by trying to overrun the statute of limitations. A good lawyer will know how to recognize these attempts and ensure that the process is moving forward. They can also assist you to get the medical treatment you need and take care of any other issues that you may face after a collision with an 18-wheeler.