How to File a Successful Semi Truck Accident Claim
Trucking companies must maintain minimum liability insurance policies that will pay compensation to victims of truck accidents. But that's not enough.
A successful NYC semi-truck accident claim will involve many kinds of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages and the pain and suffering. Here's a closer look at each of these types of damages.
Damages
A semi truck accident can be a terrifying experience because these vehicles are huge and intimidating on the highways. These accidents can result in severe injuries and even life-threatening damages. Victims may seek compensation from the trucking company or their insurance company for their losses.
The three primary types of damages that are incurred in the aftermath of a semi-crash include future and past medical expenses, lost wages, and suffering and pain. The total amount of these damages will differ dependent on the severity of the injuries suffered by the victim and how well they are able to document their losses. An attorney for truck accidents will assist victims to document their losses and ensure they receive the maximum amount of damages they are entitled to.
In addition to these damages, a victim might be eligible for punitive damages. They are designed to punish the defendant and discourage similar conduct in the future. These are typically only awarded when the truck driver was guilty of gross negligence or reckless.
Some of the causes that could lead to an accident involving a semi include poor maintenance, fatigue of the driver, and driver distraction or impairment. Other causes for these crashes are weather conditions, lack of proper truck-training, and the driver's history of drug or alcohol use. A third-party motorist violating traffic laws could also trigger a semi crash, especially if the motorist is impaired or distracted.
Semi-trucks can be involved numerous accidents, such as rear-end collisions, side-impact accidents as well as underride crash. Rear end collisions can be particularly dangerous because the truck could hit a car from behind with massive force. This can crush the front of the passenger vehicle and send it flying into the back of the truck trailer. The accident that follows is almost always fatal.
A semi-truck's size and weight can make side-impact collisions extremely dangerous. These vehicles have a very large blind zone and it's hard for drivers to see the other cars in their lane. If a driver turns the direction of a semi the trucker can't brake or turn quickly enough to avoid collision.
Medical bills
Even a minor collision with a truck can cause severe damage to your vehicle and you. It is possible to be faced with medical bills that fall in the six-figures or higher range. This type of damage is a significant part of your claim, and a knowledgeable truck accident lawyer will work to ensure that it is completely and accurately considered in the settlement.
Your attorney will review your medical invoices and records to determine the full extent of your injuries. This is crucial in the calculation of your damages. They will also take into account any future medical costs you may incur in addition to any other expenses related to the injury, such as property damage and loss of work.
lakewood semi truck accident law firm will also try to hold responsible parties accountable for your losses. Vicarious liability can permit you to sue the truck driver and the company that employed him or her. The trucking firm could be held liable if they was aware or ought to be aware that the truck driver was not able to safely driving due to prior drug or alcohol-related infractions or violations of federal regulations.
When a big truck driver is behind the wheel under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or when he or she is exhausted from exceeding the federally mandated limits on the length of time they can drive on a daily basis, it can lead to devastating accidents. This is why the trucking industry needs to be held to a high standard in enforcement of safety regulations and providing adequate training for drivers.
The wrongful death claim is another possible type of damages that could be awarded following a crash that involves a large commercial vehicle. These awards can include funeral expenses loss of income, benefits, loss of companionship and mental anguish.
Finally, your lawyer will assist you in obtaining punitive damages that punish the party at fault and discourage them from engaging in similar behavior in the future. These aren't often granted, but your lawyer can make a strong case for them if there's clear evidence that the truck driver acted recklessly or in a way that was negligent in the accident and subsequent injuries.
Lost wages
Commercial trucks are heavier than other motor vehicles due to the fact that they transport heavy cargo. This makes collisions with semis much more likely to be severe and produce major injuries. This makes it more important to seek medical attention immediately following a truck collision and to speak with a NYC semi-truck injury lawyer as soon as you can.
The medical expenses for victims of semi-crash injuries could be significant. They could require ongoing treatment which could last the rest their lives. Medical expenses are a factor in the amount of compensation a claim will receive. Furthermore, since many truck crashes are fatal that the victims could be out of work for long periods of time. This leads to lost wages, which are included in settlements.
A reputable personal injury lawyer will review your financial losses and determine the total amount of damages you should receive, which includes costs such as medical bills, property damage and lost wages. Non-economic damages are more difficult to quantify, and could include things like pain and suffering loss of enjoyment, or permanent impairment.
For instance, the violent nature of a semi-truck collision can leave a victim with permanent psychological trauma which can be extremely expensive to heal from. The fear and anxiety associated from truck accidents may result in PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) which can result in serious, long-lasting mental and physical problems for the victim.
A settlement for a car accident could cover a wide range of expenses. However, it's important to consult an experienced lawyer as soon as you can. A skilled attorney will gather important evidence and negotiate on behalf of insurance companies to obtain the compensation you deserve. For more information on filing a compensation claim after an accident, call an NYC semi accident attorney today. The sooner you do so, the more your odds of a favorable outcome will be. This includes having access to important evidence, like witness statements and trucker's logs, that are needed to establish a strong case.
Pain and suffering
A truck crash could be a terrifying event. These accidents can result in significant injuries and property damage, and the consequences of these injuries are typically longer-lasting than the ones suffered by those who ride in cars. Victims of accidents face financial losses due to medical bills and loss of income, as well as non-financial losses like suffering or loss of enjoyment in their lives.
In the event of pursuing a claim to recover damages resulting from a truck accident It is essential to document all of the above expenses and losses as they occur. This will help ensure that all losses are covered. It is also crucial to have a thorough understanding of the impact your injury will have on you long-term. It is crucial to hire an experienced attorney represent you.
A NYC semi truck accident lawyer with years of experience will ensure that your losses are taken into account in the compensation claim against the party who is at fault. Our attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation, partner with top experts, and calculate the amount of damages that you are entitled to receive. We will strive to get you the most compensation possible, regardless of whether your injuries are minor.
The first step to determine your losses is to seek medical attention immediately after the crash. After your injuries have improved, it's a great idea to record photos and videos of the crash scene, both from afar and in close proximity. If you are able take pictures, try to record evidence like skid marks, road conditions and other evidence that may in proving your claim. Ensure that you collect the contact information of any witnesses, and get their statements to support your claim.
The parties responsible in a truck accident may be responsible for more than one person. For instance, a truck driver who is suffering from fatigue or exhaustion may be held liable by the trucking company who employs them. A trucking firm may be held liable for hiring an unreliable driver or failing to monitor the safety record of the driver and drug testing.