According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, accidents involving large commercial trucks claimed the lives of almost 4,000 people in 2019. That is up nearly 31% from 10 years ago. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration predicts that injury-causing semi-truck accidents climbed 62% from 2009 to 2015. During that time, there were about 100,000 trucking-related injuries reported each year.
These stunning figures indicate the staggering number of people who suffer life-altering repercussions, major injuries, and even death as a result of semi-truck collisions. These incidents can have a long-term impact on mental well-being, physical health, and financial stability. That is why many victims seek the assistance of a qualified semi-truck accident attorney.
“How long does it take to settle a semi-truck accident?” is one of the most common questions a semi-truck accident victim asks. After an 18-wheeler collision, it can take months to collect damages. However, an experienced Texas semi-truck accident lawyer can assist victims to understand and manage the process. Here, the attorneys at West Loop Law and the Law Office of Nhan Nguyen, MD, JD will review the semi-truck accident settlement schedule, how to speed up the procedure, and what to expect when during your settlement.
Establishing Liability
Proving responsibility is a crucial stage in every personal injury lawsuit. In order to receive compensation from the trucking business, the driver, or their insurance provider, plaintiffs must be able to demonstrate that their injuries were caused by the negligent acts of the at-fault party. Semi-truck accidents can happen for a variety of causes, including:
- Truck drivers who are tired, distracted, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Equipment that isn’t well-maintained, such as brakes, tires, or lights
- Speeding, merging carelessly, or failing to maintain proper stopping distances.
- Unbalanced cargo
However, demonstrating blame may be a tough task. The time it takes to gather supporting evidence might impact the timeline of your settlement.
Severity of Injuries and Damages
Because of their size and weight, semi-trucks are frequently involved in catastrophic accidents. Semi-truck accidents commonly result in the following injuries:
- Whiplash
- Soft-tissue injuries
- Broken bones
- Bruising, lacerations, and swelling
- Muscle sprains, strains, and tears
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Burns
- Partial or complete paralysis
- Spinal or nerve damage
- Death
Whether your injury has short- or long-term consequences, an expert semi-truck accident attorney in Houston will assist you in proving that your injuries were caused by the collision and providing the required evidence to receive appropriate compensation.
Insurance Coverage, Policy Limits, and State Laws
The majority of big rig operators are covered by their employer’s corporate insurance policy. This may include coverage restrictions or policy limits that impact the settlement process. Also, federal and state insurance rules and requirements govern transportation insurance coverage. State regulations may also influence how semi-truck accident settlements are handled in certain states.
A semi-truck accident lawyer in Texas can assist you in ensuring that your compensation is handled properly – not just within the constraints of Texas state law, but also within the limits of the trucking company’s insurance. To obtain the greatest possible compensation, attorneys might advise whether to launch a lawsuit against the motorist, their company, or their insurer.
Can I File a Claim After a Trucking Accident?
Settlements for semi-truck accidents are occasionally reached without the need for litigation. However, in other cases, a semi-truck accident lawyer may advise that litigation be pursued. Examples of these scenarios include:
- The settlement offer made by the insurance provider is far too low.
- The parties concerned dispute blame or dispute on the value of resulting damages.
- The statute of limitations is nearing.
- The operation and maintenance of semi-trucks were in violation of federal rules.
- The collision was a significant, multi-vehicle crash that resulted in serious injuries or fatalities.
Litigation might extend the time it takes to resolve your case, but it can also result in bigger settlement payouts or a trial where a jury can award more money.
Houston 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyers
On Texas highways, accidents involving large commercial vehicles are among the most deadly. If you or a loved one has been seriously wounded or killed in a truck accident, contact a Texas truck accident lawyer at West Loop Law and the Law Office of Nhan Nguyen, MD, JD.
Our attorneys have handled a wide range of personal injury cases. After a major 18-wheeler collision, medical costs, lost earnings, and pain and suffering are all possible losses. You may be entitled to compensation if you were hurt by a careless truck driver. Our firm has the knowledge and experience to help you obtain the best possible settlement for your claim.
Nhan Nguyen, MD, JD, and Nader Rabie, JD have years of combined experience working for the rights of Houston injury victims, and we are here to fight for you.
Contact West Loop Law and the Law Office of Nhan Nguyen, MD, JD today at (713) 840-7200 if you or a loved one has been unfairly injured by the negligence of a truck driver or transportation company.
Recent Comments