What is the average semi truck accident settlement?

If you’ve been injured in a semi truck accident, then you may be wondering whether you have a legal case for damages, and also what the “average semi truck accident settlement” is so that you can evaluate what sort of compensation you should be satisfied with.

The average semi truck accident settlement can vary significantly due to various factors and considerations, such as the complexity of determining liability, the substantial economic impact including medical bills, funeral expenses, property damage, and loss of income. As you explore the basics of truck accident disputes, it’s worth exploring the possibility of working with an experienced truck accident lawyer, too. They can help you at every stage of litigation, from start-to-finish.

That being said, if you’d like to learn more about the average semi truck accident settlement and various other aspects of semi truck accident settlements before contacting an attorney, we encourage you to read on! We’ll cover some of the foundational aspects that you need to know.

Why are trucking accidents a serious issue?

Trucking accidents are a “serious issue” because large trucks (i.e., 18 wheelers, semi trucks, large delivery vans, etc.) expose others to unique dangers.  Truck accident victim injuries tend to be rather severe, and common. Dangerous elements include the following:

  • Large trucks tend to be heavy.  This weight makes them less agile and less maneuverable overall, which can lead to a higher frequency of accidents.  It also increases the impact force of a collision when an accident does occur — this can lead to much more severe injury (or even fatalities).
  • Large trucks have challenging sight lines.  Due to the size of the vehicle, it can be quite difficult for a trucker to manage a comprehensive view of the roadway around him — which can contribute to accidents, especially since other drivers often don’t feel comfortable maneuvering around 18 wheelers.
  • Trucking company work schedules can be grueling, and the incentives can encourage truckers to engage in unsafe behavior.  Truck drivers often use stimulants and various drugs to keep up with their work schedules.  They may also push themselves too hard, becoming fatigued on the road.  This can easily lead to more serious truck collision accidents — both in terms of frequency and severe injuries.

Who can I sue in a truck accident lawsuit?

In a truck accident lawsuit, you can potentially sue:

  • The other driver (i.e., the truck driver who hit you)
  • Any other drivers who contributed to the accident
  • The trucking company that employed the truck driver
  • Any other companies who were involved in the employment chain-of-command
  • Any manufacturers whose parts defects contributed to the accident
  • Any auto repair shop whose failure to properly inspect, maintain, and fix a vehicle contributed to the accident
  • The City, if some dangerous condition of their property contributed to the accident
  • Any private property owner whose dangerous condition of property contributed to the accident
  • And more

Phew!  That’s a lot of potential defendants, depending on the circumstances of your case.  

That being said, it can be useful to sue multiple defendants, as it’s strategically beneficial when you believe that a defendant may not have the insurance coverage necessary to pay out your damages in full.  For example, a truck driver might not have sufficient personal insurance coverage.  But the trucking company that employs him will very likely have sufficient liability insurance coverage to pay you out in full.  Accessing “deep pockets” is an important strategy in personal injury litigation.

How much will you get paid if an 18 wheeler hits you?

The amount you can potentially get paid — your compensation — depends on the claimable losses that you suffered as a result of the semi truck accident. These claimable losses include, but are not limited to:

  • Lost wages
  • Loss of earning capacity
  • Loss of property
  • Loss of companionship
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Medical expenses (i.e., comprehensive medical bills for whatever medical treatment you needed post-accident)
  • Pain and suffering (i.e., the subjective physical, emotional, and psychological harm you experienced during and after the accident)

The average truck accident settlement can vary widely due to the various factors and considerations that impact the compensation awarded to victims, such as medical bills, funeral expenses, property damage, and loss of income.

Compensation can vary substantially from case-to-case, even when the truck accident case itself is very similar. That’s because the compensation you’re owed is based on the particular losses that you suffered — each person and their circumstances are unique, thus creating a different set of losses.

For example, suppose that you’re injured in an 18 wheeler truck accident. In scenario A, you are unemployed at the time of the accident — you’d therefore have a zero dollar (or close to zero) lost wages claim. In scenario B, you are gainfully employed at a high-paying job at the time of the accident, and are forced to take half a year off from work to recover from your injuries — you’d therefore have a rather substantial lost wages claim. The difference could be in the tens of thousands of dollars, or more!

Given the variation, it’s important to consult an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help you “work up” your case to its maximum potential damages amount. Truck accidents can lead to complex disputes, so it’s sensible to talk to an attorney about the possibilities.

Why do most truck accident disputes end in a settlement?

Most truck accident disputes (like other personal injury and accident disputes) end in a settlement compromise because trial litigation comes with a lot of challenges that are best avoided by most parties.

Trial litigation can be:

  • Resource-intensive
  • Uncertain
  • Public
  • Distracting
  • And more

For example, suppose that you’re suing a local trucking company after you’ve suffered injuries in an accident involving one of their truck drivers.  The trucking company defendant may want to avoid litigation, as it is a public affair that can be reported on by the media.  If the story gets widely reported, their brand and reputation could be damaged, and they could face long-term business-related repercussions.

On your side, you may want to avoid the inherent uncertainty of trial litigation — even if you have a strong case, there’s always a chance that the court doesn’t award you a “win,” or that they award you less compensation than you would have ideally wanted.

Thus, you both have an incentive to resolve the dispute through an early settlement.  You get to avoid the uncertainty of trial, and the trucking company gets to avoid the damaging impact of a public dispute over truck accidents and safety issues.

How much is the average accident settlement?

It doesn’t serve anyone to talk about the average truck accident settlement. That’s because every case — the circumstances and the parties — are different. Factors that can influence your settlement offer include:

  • The hostility of the defendant to reaching an amicable compromise
  • The willingness of the defendant to face public scrutiny over the dispute
  • The strength (legal argument/evidence) of the liability claims
  • The strength (legal argument/evidence) of the damages claims
  • How likable you are as an injury victim plaintiff
  • How authoritative your expert witnesses are
  • How trustworthy your eyewitnesses are
  • And more

Given these (and other) factors, there’s really no point in obsessing over what the “average truck accident settlement” is. Whatever the average settlement is, it will not apply to your case, nor should it serve as a barometer of success for your truck accident claim. In reality, you’ll have to evaluate the facts and particularities of your truck accident case with your attorney, who can then help you understand what sort of truck accident settlements fairly account for the likelihood of success were your case to proceed all the way to trial.

How much do lawyers take from a semi truck accident settlement?

Depending on the phase of the personal injury lawsuit (when the settlement compromise is finalized) — and how much of a percentage cut has been negotiated with the attorney before the start of representation — most plaintiffs’-side truck accident lawyers will take between a 25 percent to 40 percent cut of the compensation they secure on your behalf (here, the settlement amount).

How do I know whether I can afford to hire a truck accident lawyer to help me with my case?

Regardless of your financial circumstances, you absolutely can afford to hire a truck accident attorney to represent you in your semi truck accident dispute.  That’s because most truck accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis — in other words, you don’t pay anything upfront or out-of-pocket.

It costs you literally nothing unless and until they secure compensation on your behalf, at which point they will take a percentage cut of your compensation payout, whether that’s through a claim submitted to the insurance company or through litigation.  If you don’t get paid, then you don’t pay them anything.  That means you always walk away with “at least” the same amount of money that you started with.

Contingency fees not only lower the barrier-to-entry for securing personal injury legal representation — they also incentivize personal injury lawyers to work to efficiently and effectively maximize your compensation.  That’s because they get paid only if you win, and further, they get paid more if you get paid more.

It’s a win-win.

If you’ve been injured in a semi truck accident, then you could be entitled to sue for compensation under the law.  Navigating the legal process can be challenging and confusing for many first-time plaintiffs, however, especially since a truck accident lawsuit may involve many unique dynamics as compared to a “standard” motor vehicle accident dispute.  That’s why it’s so important to work with experienced truck accident lawyers who understand semi truck accidents litigation and how best to secure compensation in that context.

Contact 1-800-THE-LAW2 for a free legal consultation with a qualified truck accident attorney in our network.  During this initial consultation, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your case in detail and to learn more about what strategic options are available to you.  Of course, if you decide against moving forward, that’s okay, too — there’s no obligation to continue.  So pick up the phone and call us today to get started!

We look forward to assisting you.

Can I Sue for Being Hit by a Truck?

If you’ve been in a commercial truck accident, then you may be able to sue for being hit by a truck. That being said, the dispute may not unfold as simply as you initially think — litigation is complex, and there are many unique challenges and opportunities to be aware of as you move forward. Whether you’re looking to secure benefits from the insurance company or push ahead with a lawsuit (or both), it’s important that you consider all the strategic options for your truck accident claim.

We encourage you to consult with an experienced truck accident lawyer at an early stage in your dispute. By calling 1-800-THE-LAW2, you can connect to a personal injury lawyer in our network for a free consultation today! Of course, if you’d like to learn more about trucking accident litigation, then read on — we’ll run through some truck accident case basics.

What makes truck accidents uniquely dangerous?

Truck accidents tend to cause more severe injuries (and deaths) than other types of motor vehicle accidents, such as car accidents. It’s no surprise that attorneys encourage plaintiffs to sue for being hit by a truck — the life impacts can be substantial, after all.

Why is getting hit by a semi so dangerous?  It’s actually quite simple. Large trucks tend to be more dangerous because:

  • They are less maneuverable, due to their weight, shape, and sightline restrictions
  • They take longer to come to a complete stop
  • The impact force of a collision is substantially higher than that of a smaller vehicle
  • Commercial truck drivers often have to work difficult hours and schedules, which can result in issues like fatigue, substance abuse, etc.
  • They are significantly bigger and heavier than passenger vehicles, leading to more severe injuries and fatalities for the passengers in cars during accidents.
  • And more

How do I determine whether I can sue for a truck accident claim?

Liability can be imposed if you can show:

  1. That the defendant violated their duty of care; and
  2. That in violating this duty of care, the defendant caused you to sustain damages.

Simple, right?  Not exactly.  While these basic elements cover a variety of different circumstances, they can be challenging to establish in a litigation setting.  That’s because these elements tend to have subtle nuances that can lead to additional challenges.

For example, suppose that you sustain a serious back injury in a truck accident, but you have a preexisting back injury already.  The defendant may attempt to argue that while they were speeding (i.e., they did violate their duty of care to others), they did not actually cause you to sustain damages, as your injuries were preexistent.  Unless you can establish that your preexistent injuries are distinct, or that they were exacerbated by the accident, then the elements required for liability are not met — and this can pose a problem for the case.

Given these (and other) potential complications, it’s absolutely critical that you work with experienced personal injury lawyers who understand how to build up your case and navigate around unique challenges.

How much will you get paid if an 18 wheeler hits you?

Damages in a semi truck accident dispute change from case-to-case, and the damages that you’re entitled to recover are for claimable losses, which are quite variable.  Claimable losses include:

  • Lost wages
  • Loss of earning capacity
  • Loss of property
  • Loss of companionship
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Medical expenses (i.e., medical bills for medical treatment)
  • Pain and suffering
  • And more

How much you’ll “get paid” depends on the particularities of your case.  For example, if you are unemployed, then your lost wages claim will be minimal to zero.  On the other hand, if you are gainfully employed (and are forced to take a significant amount of time off from work after the accident), then your lost wages claim may be quite large.

How much are most truck accident settlements?

There is no set-in-stone truck accident settlement amount.  A variety of factors will determine your settlement offers, though — at a foundational level — what increases the settlement amount is when you can show that you are likely to receive your claimed damages if the case were to proceed to trial.

For example, if you can introduce a strong enough legal argument and substantial enough evidence that the opposing party agrees you have an 80 percent chance of securing your claimed $100,000 damages, then an $80,000 settlement compromise would be “fair” for the case circumstances.

Factors that can influence your settlement amounts include:

  • The hostility of the defendant and their willingness to negotiate a settlement
  • The strength of your liability claim
  • The strength of your damages claim
  • How sympathetic and likable you are as a plaintiff
  • How sympathetic and likable the defendant is
  • How authoritative and legitimate your expert witnesses appear
  • How believable your eyewitnesses seem
  • How much negative publicity the defendant will face if the case moves forward
  • How significant the financial resources the defendant is willing to spend on the case
  • And more

Who can I sue for being hit by a truck?

If you’re hit by a truck, then — depending on the circumstances of your case — you can potentially sue the following defendants:

  • The truck driver who hit you
  • Any other drivers who may have contributed to the accident
  • The trucking company that employed the truck driver
  • The City, if some hazard on the roadway contributed to the accident
  • Any private property owner whose property hazard contributed to the accident
  • The auto manufacturer, if some defect of the vehicle contributed to the accident
  • And more

In commercial trucking accidents, one advantage is that you may be able to bring an action for damages against the trucking company that employs the truck driver.  Trucking companies can be held “vicariously liable” for the negligence of their drivers, so long as the driver was working at the time of the accident.

This has a few major advantages: a) the trucking company is likely to have more significant insurance coverage, so they may be able to pay out your damages in full, and b) the brand damage of an accident lawsuit could be substantial for a trucking company, and so they may be more willing to negotiate an early settlement to avoid the publicity of a lawsuit.

How much does it cost to hire an experienced truck accident lawyer?

Though many people believe that it is too costly to hire a truck accident lawyer to handle their case (i.e., that they can’t afford to do so), this is a common misperception.  In truth, most plaintiffs’-side accident attorneys offer their services on a contingency fee basis.  What does this mean?

When an attorney offers their services on a contingency fee basis, they are offering to represent you (the injured plaintiff) at no upfront or out-of-pocket cost.  Instead, they will take a percentage cut of whatever compensation they’re able to secure on your behalf.  This percentage can range from 25 percent to 40 percent or more, depending on what you negotiate and what phase the case is in when it is resolved.

If you don’t “win” compensation, then you don’t have to pay anything.  That creates a really favorable dynamic for injury victims — there’s not only a lower barrier-to-entry (since there are no costs unless you win), but there’s also incentive for the attorney to work to secure compensation on your behalf and to try and maximize that compensation.  That’s because the more you get paid, the more they get paid.

It’s a win-win situation.

If you’ve sustained serious injuries in a truck accident, then you could be entitled to sue for being hit by a truck. After all, you may be able to secure compensation under the law — but in order to effectively pursue a claim and maximize your potential damages, you’ll want to work with experienced truck accident lawyers who understand how best to navigate the litigation process.  We can help you access the necessary legal services.

Contact 1-800-THE-LAW2 for a free legal consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer in our network who can help you explore the possibility of fair compensation for your personal injury claim.  During this initial consultation, you’ll be able to discuss your truck accident claims in detail and learn more about what options you have to recover compensation.  If you decide not to move forward with a truck accident lawsuit, that’s okay — there’s no obligation to continue.  As such, there’s no downside to calling in to get started today.

We look forward to assisting you!

Can I Sue for Being Hit by a Semi Truck?

If you’ve been injured in a large truck collision, then you may be wondering whether you can sue for being hit by a semi truck.  Perhaps!  In evaluating whether you have an actionable claim, you’ll want to first discuss the case with a qualified personal injury attorney.  Your attorney will also be able to help you navigate the strategic and procedural complexities that are typical of litigation.

Of course, if you’d rather learn a bit more about the legalities of semi truck accidents and some basic issues in truck accident claim litigation, read on!

Why are trucking accidents a serious issue?

Truck collisions are uniquely dangerous, and the statistics prove it.  According to the 2022 data, for example, there were 160,000 truck accidents, resulting in more than 5,100 deaths and 73,000 injuries.  Those injuries tend to be more severe, too.

These unique dangers are because:

  • Large trucks (i.e., big rigs, semi trucks) have poor maneuverability and offer poor peripheral visibility, so it can be difficult for a semi truck driver to avoid hazards
  • Large trucks are heavy.  Their weight is so significant that when they do collide with another vehicle, the impact force is enough to crush and overcome the protective systems of the other vehicle — causing direct damage to the driver and passengers in the other vehicle
  • Truck drivers are generally driving as a job.  Dangerous truck driver behaviors are common due to the pressures of the job. Their employers (the trucking company) may impose strict schedules and demands on these drivers, thus encouraging the drivers to abuse stimulants and avoid resting properly in an effort to obtain monetary incentives. Trucking companies have a large role to play in this regard, as federal regulations can’t cover every aspect of safety — when serious injuries are a potential risk, it’s critical that trucking companies implement policies internally that limit the likelihood of dangerous truck driver behavior and semi truck accident injuries
  • And more

Can I sue for being hit by a semi truck?

Maybe — it depends on the facts of your case (semi truck accident cases tend to vary quite a bit!).  In order to successfully impose liability in a lawsuit, or to secure benefits from the insurance company, you’ll have to show that:

  1. The truck driver engaged in negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct, and
  2. As a result of the truck driver’s misconduct, you sustained injuries.

If you can establish these elements, then you’ll be equipped to push forward and argue for the damages you deserve.  If there’s a fundamental issue with establishing any of these elements, however, then you could face challenges as you progress through litigation.

For example, it’s important that you be able to show that the truck driver’s negligence actually caused your injuries.  If the truck driver collides with you, but at the same time you’re struck by a lightning bolt, then the defendant may argue that it was the lightning bolt that caused your injuries, not the truck.

Why do most semi truck accident disputes end in settlement?

Most personal injury disputes — including those involving a semi truck accident — are resolved through a negotiated settlement.  In fact, industry observers estimate that 95 percent or more of civil disputes end in a settlement agreement.

But why are settlements so common? The truth is that trial litigation tends to be:

  • Resource-intensive
  • Uncertain
  • Public
  • Exhausting and distracting
  • And more

These aspects can be undesirable for many parties.

For example, a business defendant may want to avoid the negative publicity of the trial, as media reporting could damage their brand and reputation considerably.  Similarly, if you’re risk-averse and don’t want to walk away from a dispute without any compensation, you might not want to go to trial, as there’s always the inherent uncertainty of the court finding against you — wins and losses in court have an element of uncertainty, after all.

To avoid these issues, most disputing parties choose to negotiate a settlement as opposed to go to trial.

How can I maximize my semi truck accident settlement?

Settlement offers improve when: a) the defendant shows a willingness to settle, as opposed to pushing ahead to trial, and b) you (the plaintiff) are able to show that there is strong evidence and a strong legal argument in support of your claims, such that you would be likely to win if the case were to proceed to trial.

As such, factors that can influence the settlement offers you receive include:

  • The hostility of the defendant and their willingness to settle
  • The strength of the evidence in support of your liability claim
  • The strength of the evidence in support of your damages claim
  • How sympathetic and relatable you are as an injured plaintiff
  • How legitimate and well-presenting your witnesses are
  • How damaging to the defendant’s reputation/brand a public lawsuit would be
  • How much resources the defendant has at their disposal to litigate for an extended period of time
  • And more

For example, suppose that you are having a back-and-forth negotiation with the defendant regarding a settlement amount.  You and the defendant agree that you have a 60 percent chance of “winning” your $100,000 claimed damages, should the case proceed all the way through to trial.  Under these circumstances, a “fair” settlement would hover around $60,000 then — that being said, the number could shift based off of other factors.

What damages can I claim for my accident?

In a semi truck accident, you can claim damages for any losses that you sustained as a result of the defendant’s negligent, reckless, or intentional actions.  Claimable losses can vary quite a bit and include:

  • Lost wages
  • Loss of earning capacity
  • Medical expenses (i.e., medical bills for medical treatment)
  • Loss of property
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Loss of companionship
  • Pain and suffering
  • And more

Damages can vary substantially from case-to-case depending on the underlying facts and circumstances.

For example, if you’re injured in a semi truck collision, but you are unemployed (and have been unemployed for years), then your lost wages claim would be close to zero.  On the other hand, if you’re in the same accident scenario but are gainfully employed, then you may have a significant lost wages claim due to time needed off from work after the accident.

Given these varied outcomes, it’s critical that you work with experienced truck accident lawyers who understand how to build up your case and navigate the complexities of damage assertions.

Who can I sue for compensation in a semi truck accident dispute?

There are several different defendants that you can potentially sue.  These may include, but are not limited to:

  • The trucker/truck driver who collided with you
  • Anyone who may have distracted the truck driver
  • Any other driver who may have contributed to the accident
  • The truck driver’s employer (if the truck driver was working at the time of the accident). Trucking industry issues are commonly at the center of a commercial truck accident
  • The City, if a dangerous condition of City property contributed to the accident
  • Any property owner whose dangerous condition of property contributed to the accident
  • Medical professionals whose negligence worsened or created your post-accident health issues
  • And more

In the semi truck accident context, specifically, suing the employer (of the truck driver who hit you) is very common.  That’s because of a doctrine known as “vicarious liability,” which allows injured plaintiffs to sue and impose liability on the employer of the defendant for any on-the-job negligence that causes harm.

Vicarious liability is enormously helpful in many disputes, particularly trucking accident disputes.  Why?  Well, the truck driver who hit you might not have adequate insurance coverage to pay out for all your damages.  To ensure that you have a sufficient payout, you’d want to bring your truck accident claims against a defendant who has “deep pockets” — like a business/employer defendant.

How can an attorney help me in my truck accident lawsuit?

Attorneys are not just courtroom advocates.  An experienced truck accident lawyer can and will take on a number of different responsibilities over the course of a lawsuit.  These varied duties and tasks include, but are not limited to:

  • Identifying, gathering, and preserving relevant evidence
  • Speaking to third parties (i.e., witnesses, opposing counsel, insurance companies, law enforcement officers, etc.) on your behalf
  • Developing a persuasive legal argument based on the facts
  • Navigating various court-required hearings
  • Negotiating a potential settlement compromise
  • Pushing ahead to trial, if necessary
  • Fighting for the client’s rights at trial
  • Securing whatever compensation has been paid out
  • And more

That’s a lot of different tasks handled by the attorney.  As such, it’s important to actually use an attorney — it’s generally not a good idea to move forward without an attorney, given the complexity and volume of professional-level tasks that you’ll have to handle for your case.

You may be wondering: can I sue for being hit by a semi truck?  Well, if you’ve been injured in a semi truck accident (i.e., a truck driver loses control and hits you, or is speeding and swerves into you), then you could be entitled to sue and recover compensation under the law.  Whether you can successfully obtain damages will depend largely on how effectively you can navigate the dynamic and challenging process that is litigation.  As such, it’s important that you work with an experienced truck accident attorney for guidance — after all, commercial truck accidents and the litigation process surrounding commercial vehicles tend to be more complicated.

Contact 1-800-THE-LAW2 for a free legal consultation with a skilled personal injury lawyer in our network who can help you litigate a truck accident dispute and potentially maximize the total compensation amount that you’re able to secure.  If you decide against moving forward with your case, or with the attorney, that’s okay — there’s no obligation to continue.  As such, there’s really no downside to picking up the phone and calling in for a free consultation today.

We look forward to assisting you.  Truck accident victims deserve the opportunity to fight to secure compensation for their injuries.

What Does a Trucking Accident Lawyer Do? | Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, chances are that you’ve been considering a lawsuit with the help of an experienced trucking accident lawyer.   Good plan!  The first step to securing compensation is exploring your legal options, and broaching the possibility with a lawyer is an excellent way to get started. 

Here at 1-800-THE-LAW2, we operate a network of truck accident attorneys practicing in your area.  We encourage you to call us today to get connected.  Consultation is free and confidential, so it’s worth it to have your case evaluated and for guidance on how best to proceed. 

As you make your way through the litigation process, a truck accident lawyer will take on a number of different responsibilities on your behalf.  Don’t go through this process alone.  Going at it alone will undermine your ability to secure compensation. 

For now, let’s walk through some basics. 

Truck Accident Liability: the Basics 

As with any other motor vehicle accident, truck accidents can be linked to a variety of “legally problematic” behaviors.  You’ll have to evaluate whether the defendant’s (a truck driver, for example) actions rose to the level of negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. 

Going through each of these in detail would fall outside the scope of this discussion, but let’s briefly explore negligence. 

All drivers have a responsibility to others on the roadway.  They have a “duty” to exercise reasonable care (under the circumstances) to avoid causing an accident.  Courts will evaluate a driver’s behavior by comparison to a similar “reasonable person” under those same circumstances.  If the driver acted out-of-step with the expected norm, and it caused an injury, then the court may find that they were negligent and liable.  The driver may be forced to pay compensation to the injured. 

Simple, right? 

Well, things tend to get more exciting (and more complicated) when they involve commercial trucking and trucking companies. 

Commercial Trucking, Big Rigs, Buses, and Other Unique Scenarios 

Depending on the case, the truck driver may not be the only party at-fault for causing your injuries.  Commercial vehicle accident lawyers understand that liability can extend to the driver’s employer, too. 

Thanks to a principle called “vicarious liability,” injury victims can sue and recover damages from a driver’s employer, so long as the driver was performing job responsibilities at the time of the accident.  So, for example, if you’re hit by a bus (that’s transporting passengers), you’d be entitled to sue the bus company. 

Why Bother Suing the Employer? 

Well, suing the employer is a brilliant strategic move.  Employers tend to have substantial insurance coverage, which can cover your damages in full.  They may also want to avoid the publicity of a lawsuit, and so are often more generous in making settlement offers. 

What Can a Truck Accident Attorney Do for Me? 

Truck accident attorneys are more than just advocates.  TV and movies have sold the public on the idea that attorneys are only around to “argue” with the opposition in court.  This is a myopic view of their responsibilities, however.  A truck accident attorney helps with all aspects of the claim, from start-to-finish: 

  • Gathering evidence, contacts, and other information 
  • Communicating with defendants, insurers, and other third parties on the plaintiff’s behalf 
  • Moving forward with a dynamic legal strategy 
  • Developing and presenting a persuasive legal argument  
  • Negotiating a settlement 
  • Submitting claims to insurers 
  • Investigating the truth through witness interrogations 
  • Pushing through to trial litigation if necessary 
  • Securing compensation after an award has been granted 
  • And more 

Phew!  That’s a lot.  So if you’ve been hit by a driver in a truck accident, no matter the situation (distracted driver, intoxicated driver, speeding driver, etc.), then you’ll want to consult with an experienced truck accident lawyer for guidance.  They will handle every aspect of your case so you don’t have to worry.  You can focus on recovering from your injuries and reintegrating yourself into everyday life. 

It’s worth noting that most injury lawyers operate on contingency.  They also offer free consultations.  This means that you don’t pay ANYTHING out of pocket until and unless you secure compensation.  At that point, they take a percentage cut of your overall compensation as a fee. 

Injured?  Contact 1-800-THE-LAW2 for a Free Consultation 

Were you injured in a truck accident?  Whether you were involved in an 18-wheeler crash or a semi truck crash (or even a bus collision), the law may entitle you to compensation.  It’s important to get in touch with a qualified truck accident lawyer ASAP for assistance.  Claims don’t last forever, so do speak to an attorney before the deadline “runs out.” 

Call us at 1-800-THE-LAW2 to get connected to an experienced trucking accident lawyer in just 10 minutes or less.  Consultation is free, and there’s no obligation to move forward if you decide you’d rather not. 

We look forward to helping you. 

How a Lawyer Can Maximize Your Truck Accident Settlement

You deserve full and fair compensation for your injuries. The best way to receive this is to hire an experienced attorney who can maximize your truck accident settlement. You can get the most out of your settlement with the expertise and guidance of a legal team who knows what it takes to represent victims such as yourself and win. 

According to information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2021, deaths linked to motor vehicle accidents involving at least one large truck increased by 13 percent compared to the previous year. Overall, traffic fatalities increased by 10.5 percent. Tens of thousands more victims also suffered injuries in these crashes, leaving them with heavy physical, financial, and emotional burdens.  

While receiving money in a truck accident claim doesn’t undo the damages that have already been done, it can help you pay your bills and expenses, and alleviate some of the stress you face.  

Here’s how an attorney can help maximize your settlement.  

Understanding Your Claim’s Value 

Insurance companies delight in injury claimants who don’t have legal representation in part because they know they can typically get them to settle for much less than their claim is actually worth. Often, these injured victims are happy to receive any settlement, especially if it’s an early one. 

Suppose they haven’t yet taken the time to speak to an attorney about the details of their accident and injuries. In that case, they may accept a low settlement leaving a lot of money on the table that could have helped them recover from their accident.  

However, experienced truck accident attorneys know how much your claim is really worth and that you deserve much more than the minimum truck settlement. They are familiar with other cases like yours within your region and how much those cases have received in settlements or court awards. Your attorney will help you understand your claim’s value and do all they can to fight for you to receive it. It’s best to meet with a truck accident attorney as soon as possible after your accident. 

Protection from the Insurance Company 

Truck accident attorneys can also maximize your truck accident settlement by protecting you from the insurance company’s tactics to devalue or deny your claim. Not only do insurance companies often attempt to get claimants to settle before they know the value of their claim, but they also use several other strategies such as: 

  • Asking for a recorded statement and then twisting your words or asking leading questions about the accident or your injuries 
  • Acting like your friend, seeming genuinely concerned 
  • Telling you that they will take care of you, so you don’t need to hire an attorney 
  • Asking for copies of pre-accident medical records to try to blame your accident damages on old injuries 
  • Going through your social media accounts for evidence to use against you 

Once you hire a truck accident lawyer, you no longer have to interact with the insurance company directly. Instead, your attorney will handle all communications with them. In the event that you have to talk to them – for example, at a deposition –  your attorney will be there to protect your rights and guide you.  

Accident Investigation 

Your attorney will know how to investigate your accident thoroughly. This is imperative as you must pursue a claim against the appropriate party or parties to receive maximum compensation. 

If you pursue one against the wrong party, someone who isn’t liable for your damages, you won’t receive compensation. Additionally, there are often multiple parties at-fault for a truck accident. By pursuing a claim against all liable parties, you can potentially increase your compensation. For example, in a truck accident, the following parties could be responsible for your injuries: 

  • The truck driver 
  • The trucking company 
  • The truck or truck part’s manufacturer 
  • The company responsible for loading the cargo 
  • Other drivers 
  • Government agencies 

Including All Damages  

Your truck accident lawyer will also be familiar with all of your potential damages from the accident. Including all of your damages in your claim will help maximize the amount you receive. In general, truck accident victims can claim damages for both economic (special) and non-economic (general) damages. 

These include: 

  • Medical expenses such as ambulance, emergency, hospital, and doctor bills, prescriptions, and surgeries 
  • Medical equipment such as home oxygen, wheelchairs, or crutches 
  • Home modifications 
  • Therapies 
  • Lost wages and income 
  • Property damage 
  • Pain and suffering 
  • Scarring and disfigurement 
  • Mental anguish 
  • Loss of enjoyment of life 
  • Loss of consortium 

Your lawyer will consider all of your damages when negotiating your settlement. There is no average settlement for commercial vehicle accidents or average payout for 18-wheeler accidents. Every case is unique, with its own details and various factors that can impact claim value. However,  your attorney can provide you with an estimate of how much your case could be worth at your initial meeting and as your case progresses.  

Settlement negotiations can take just a few weeks in simple cases where fault is apparent. On the other hand, more complicated cases, like those involving commercial trucks, can take several months or more. While it can be difficult to wait for your settlement, it’s best to be patient and let your lawyer go to work on your behalf, doing what they do best.  

Hire a Truck Accident Attorney Today 

With a seasoned truck accident attorney on your side, you can rest assured that your claim will reach its greatest potential, helping you recover physically, financially, and emotionally from an accident. 

You can connect with a lawyer today by calling 1-800-THE-LAW2 or completing our easy online form. In 10 minutes or less, you’ll be connected to a skilled attorney to discuss your questions and concerns and help you get your claim started.

How Can a Semi Truck Accident Attorney Help You? | Trucking Accident Lawyers

Commercial trucks and big rigs are essential to the American economy and way of life. Communities all over the U.S. rely on the commercial trucking industry for the goods and products they use every day. As such, virtually all motorists will regularly encounter large commercial trucks on the road. Typically, the vast majority of truck drivers are cautious, experienced, and attentive to other passenger vehicle drivers as well as motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians.  

Even still, large trucks are inherently some of the most unsafe vehicles on the roadways because of their weight and size. Therefore, it’s imperative that all motorists use extreme caution when driving near large commercial trucks and understand what to do if they are involved in a truck wreck. 

Call 1-800-THE-LAW2 to get a FREE CONSULTATION and Find the BEST Trucking Accident Lawyer Near You.

Truck Accident Laws

You should also be aware of your legal rights after experiencing a big rig crash. While any motor vehicle accident can result in severe damages, semi-truck crashes have a much greater risk of catastrophic and fatal injuries due to the immense force associated with these collisions. If you or someone you love recently suffered injuries and economic losses from a tractor-trailer or other commercial truck accident, representation from an experienced 18 wheeler accident lawyer is the best way to secure full and fair compensation for your damages. 

Truck accident lawyers are professionals of the law who specialize in representing clients suffering injuries and damages as a result of their truck accident. These attorneys will help make the often complex legal process of filing an injury claim and seeking and obtaining the monetary compensation you deserve much easier and sometimes faster. There are many reasons you should consider hiring a truck accident attorney. For example, consider the following things a seasoned trucking accidents lawyers can do in light of your situation. They are:

  1. Represent Your Interests Against Large, Powerful Trucking Carriers
  2. Collect Evidence and File Your Claim
  3. Determine Who is Liable for Your Injuries
  4. Deal With the Insurance Companies on Your Behalf
  5. Fight for the Compensation You Deserve
  6. Knowledge and Experience of the Law and Compensation Policies

Represent Your Interests Against Large, Powerful Trucking Carriers

Many commercial trucks are owned by larger trucking companies and carrier brands, some that have a nationwide, or even international, presence. Considering this, it is no wonder many of these companies have robust and highly successful legal teams, accident firms, and insurance companies to ensure they do not lose much profit if an accident happens. A seasoned trucking accident lawyer can make the legal process of an accident injury claim that much easier. They will stand up for your legal rights and represent you against other attorneys and legal professionals representing the other side. 

Collect Evidence and File Your Claim

Filing a truck accident injury claim can be complicated, confusing, and time consuming, even if you weren’t hurt. If you have serious or severe injuries, it can be even more difficult to navigate the legal process. Your injuries and extreme property damage can also further complicate your claim. For it to be successful, it should include a wide range of information and evidence. A truck injury lawyer can gather essential information and crucial evidence for your claim and file it for safe keeping, as it will be needed throughout the course of your case. Your tractor trailer accidents lawyer is well versed in the different types of information and evidence necessary for a successful claim, and they know how to present it in ways that will result in maximum compensation for you. 

Determine Who is Liable for Your Injuries

A skilled truck accidents attorney will also determine who is liable, or at fault, for your injuries. This might be an easy task in other types of motor vehicle accidents. However, liability in semi-truck collisions can be quite complicated. One or more of the following parties could be at fault for your accident: 

  • The truck driver 
  • The trucking company 
  • The truck manufacturer or distributor 
  • A parts manufacturer or distributor 
  • Cargo shippers and loaders 
  • Vendors hired by the trucking company 
  • Other motorists 
  • Government entities or their contractors 

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For example, suppose the trucking company hired a truck driver with a history of multiple DUIs. In addition, the cargo loaders failed to secure the truck’s cargo properly. In that case, the truck driver, trucking company, cargo loader, and potentially vendors could all be liable for the damages you suffer in an accident.  

Deal With the Insurance Companies on Your Behalf

Dealing with insurance companies and their representations and adjustors can be stressful, time-consuming, and counterproductive to your healing. Speaking with them can also put you at risk of accidentally saying something detrimental to harm your claim. When you hire a knowledgeable Semi truck accident lawyer, they will deal with the insurance companies on your behalf. You will not need to talk to anyone from the insurance company directly unless your attorney is present to represent you. This can give you the space and time you need to heal from your injuries.  

Fight for the Compensation You Deserve

Large trucking companies often use great lengths to ensure their profit isn’t touched by victims deserving of compensation for their pain and suffering. Hiring a well-versed truck accident attorney can ensure that you are represented fairly and get the maximum compensation you deserve. When you’re not at fault for an accident, you shouldn’t be held accountable for the damages that result. Large trucking companies must be held liable for their negligent and even intentional actions. An experienced 18 wheeler accident attorney will fight for the compensation you deserve, allowing you to focus on healing from your injuries and recovering financially. 

Call 1-800-THE-LAW2 to get a FREE CONSULTATION and Find the BEST Trucking Accident Lawyer Near You.

Knowledge and Experience of the Law and Compensation Policies

After being involved in a big rig accident, it can be quite challenging to organize the legal aspects of the matter, especially if you were severely or catastrophically injured. A truck accident lawyer near me can provide you with vast knowledge of the applicable laws, insurance policies, and compensation regulations. They can also help you calculate the damage and losses you endured, so you can obtain fair and accurate compensation. 

Connect with a Truck Accident Lawyer Today

As an accident victim, it’s in your best interest to retain a lawyer immediately. To connect with a qualified truck accident lawyer near you, fill our contact form. An attorney will be in touch within 10 minutes to discuss your case. 

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