The No. #1 Question Everybody Working In How Long Does 18-Wheeler Lawsuit Take Should Know How To Answer
How Long Does It Take to File an 18 Wheeler Lawsuit?
If you're involved in a crash with an 18 wheeler, you need an attorney for personal injuries who understands trucking law and can help you get the best possible settlement. A truck accident case could take anywhere between three months to two years to settle.
The process of determining fault in these accidents can be complicated, and multiple parties may be responsible for your injuries. A skilled attorney can identify all parties liable and make claims against them.
Damages
Due to the greater weight and size of a truck than an automobile, accidents involving 18-wheelers and other commercial trucks of this size often result in serious, even life-threatening injuries. They also tend to cause much more substantial destruction to vehicles and property. The damages that are awarded in 18 wheeler accidents settlements and jury awards tend to be significantly higher than those of the typical motor vehicle crash.
There are many parties that could be accountable for an 18-wheeler crash. These can include the driver of the truck and his negligence is typically the primary cause of these accidents. However, the trucking company they work for can be held accountable in the event that they fail to properly train their drivers or provide them with appropriate equipment. Additionally, the trucking company can be held liable if they encourage or incentivize their drivers to go over the federal regulations on hours of service. Additionally, the manufacturer of the truck or its components is liable when there is an auto defect that leads to an accident.
Finding all the responsible parties is essential to ensure a full and fair settlement. 18 wheeler accident attorney palm coast for 18 wheelers will examine your case to determine who is accountable for your crash and then be prepared to pursue compensation from each of the parties responsible. Attorneys can pursue non-economic damages such as discomfort and pain in addition to financial losses.
Liability
The cases involving truck accidents are more complicated than standard car accident claims. Various parties can be held accountable for the accident, which includes the truck driver as well as the trucking firm and the vehicle manufacturer. The trucking industry has incentives that could encourage trucks to speed recklessly or even to sleep in order to make quick deliveries.
These factors can affect the amount of time needed to settle a truck crash claim. Injury to the plaintiff may also affect how long it takes to receive compensation. The most severe injuries usually result in higher settlement amounts as opposed to minor injuries that may only result in a smaller settlement.
In addition, the trucking firm's insurance company will attempt to minimize their responsibility by reducing the amount of the claim. Therefore, it is crucial to contact a truck accident lawyer as soon as you can. They will combat these intimidation tactics in order to get you the compensation you deserve.
Additional documents, such as the black box's data and bill of lading, can aid in determining who is responsible for the accident on the truck. These documents could prove that the driver of the truck was driving recklessly and will aid in determining if the trucking company had any involvement in the accident. The truck manufacturer may also be liable for the accident if they had a defective product.
Statute of limitations
The statute of limitations defines the time frame you must file a lawsuit for a crash. The length of time can differ by state and is determined by the type of accident you were involved in. In general there are four years to file an action for personal injury, and two years to file a wrongful death suit. A knowledgeable attorney will assist you through the process and determine if you have a case.
A personal injury lawyer will look over the scene of the accident and interview witnesses, as well as review medical records. They will also review driver logbooks, employee records and maintenance records to determine who is responsible for the accident. It can take a long time so it's essential to begin this work immediately to safeguard the evidence.
The trucking company and their insurance company, will do everything they can to prevent paying the amount you are due. They may also attempt to exaggerate or minimize the severity of your injuries. If they succeed it could delay settlement of your claim. You could wait for more than a year to receive your settlement.
Your lawyer will be able to ensure that the statute of limitations doesn't expire before you're capable of settling your claim or even go to trial. There are certain circumstances that can overcome the statute of limitations, such as the fact that you are a minor or have a mental handicap.
Timeline
Tens of thousands of semi-truck accidents occur in the United States each year, that can cause fatal injuries or even death. These accidents are a major business for law firms that specialize in handling them. Settlements reached in 18 wheeler accidents have been in the millions of dollars, and oftentimes even billions.
A thorough investigation is required due to the severity and nature of trucking accidents. This process can take a few months to complete. Furthermore, if the matter involves multiple parties, it could take longer to get them to agree on liability and damages.
It is essential that a seasoned trucking accident attorney is onboard early on to ensure that your interests are being protected. An attorney can assist in determining the highest amount of compensation you're entitled. They can also ensure that the insurance company is not trying to settle your claim too quickly and they are providing an amount that is fair.
Attorneys usually operate on a contingent fee basis. They are not paid until the case is won. They generally receive around one-third of the final settlement or court award. They must therefore wait until the remainder of their money arrives before they can pay for their expenses and bills.