How Long Does it Take to File an 18 Wheeler Claim?
When someone gets injured in a crash involving an 18 wheeler, the case can be more difficult to settle than a typical car crash claim. This is due to the fact that truck accidents typically cause severe injuries.
There are many factors that influence the time it takes to reach an agreement. Here are a few of the most crucial factors.
Insurance claims
Like every other vehicle on the road, 18 wheeler trucks are required to carry an insurance coverage minimum. This is due to the fact that collisions with large trucks are more likely to result in serious injuries and property damage compared to a typical car accident. These wrecks can often result in death or catastrophic injuries. Because of this, it is important that victims of these accidents file a claim for the compensation they deserve.
While insurance for 18 wheelers is a must but it isn't always easy to find policies that will meet all your needs. You may need to purchase additional insurance depending on the type and quantity of cargo that your trucks transport. Hazmat carriers, as an example may require liability insurance up to $5 million. Other policies you may require include towing insurance, trailer interchange insurance and cargo insurance.
A knowledgeable attorney can also assist you in determining the type of insurance coverage is required by your business. The attorney will also assist you in negotiating with insurance companies to ensure that your claim is resolved. In some instances, insurance companies might try to decrease their liability by claiming that they are liable for comparative negligence. This could greatly diminish your claim. A lawyer can help you refute these claims to get the maximum compensation that you are entitled to. Regardless of how you were injured in your accident, a skilled lawyer will ensure you get the amount you need to recover.
Settlements
In most cases, a truck accident victim will receive an initial settlement offer prior to the time a lawsuit is filed. This offer is usually far lower than what the victim is entitled to. It's provided by the trucking company or their legal team. This offer should not be accepted without first consulting an attorney for personal injuries.
The amount of the settlement is based on several variables, including the extent of injuries and property damage. It is also contingent upon medical expenses. The non-economic damage can also be considered, especially if the crash left you physically and emotionally harmed. These losses are hard to quantify and require professional analysis.
The amount you will receive in compensation is also affected by the decision on liability. If 18 wheeler accident claim ventura can prove the responsible party committed a violation of traffic laws, acted negligently, or caused the wreck through some other act of negligence, they will be liable for paying the damages. However, there are other legal defenses that could limit their liability, such as contributory negligence or comparative fault.
The owner of the trucking company could also be held liable for the accident. This could happen if the driver of the truck was operating under poor conditions or if the company did not maintain the vehicle in good working order. In addition, if the cargo was improperly loaded or a part of the truck was not working properly the cargo loading and shipping company could be held responsible.
Filing a lawsuit
You may be forced to file a lawsuit when the insurance company does not provide an equitable settlement. This could delay the resolution of your case, but it could also result in a bigger amount of damages. A lawyer for a truck accident is your best option, regardless of whether you decide to settle or go to court.
The insurance companies involved in this case are going to attempt to lower your compensation therefore you'll require someone to protect your interests. A Lafayette truck accident lawyer can review your crash, determine the value of your injuries, and make sure you receive the highest damages for your injuries.
In many 18 wheeler crashes several parties are responsible. If the driver of the truck was driving under the influence of alcohol or if he violated the rules regarding hours of service, then the employer could be held accountable. In addition, the company that makes of a part for a vehicle or repair shop could be held accountable if a defective part caused the accident.
Furthermore, cargo loading and shipping companies can be held accountable for accidents that happen to their trucks. These trucks must be loaded and moved in a safe manner so as to avoid them tipping or jackknifing. These companies are required by law to follow strict safety regulations. You may also be able to recover other damages that are not economic, such as discomfort and pain.
Trial
Negotiations with insurance companies are often used to settle the majority of truck accident cases. A fair settlement should include all of your medical costs and treatment costs and any other losses that you may or may incur. Your attorney can also assist you in determining what your future damages could be, and whether punitive damages could be appropriate.
The amount of time it takes to get a full and final settlement will depend on various factors, and an experienced attorney will be able to guide you through the process. The extent of your injuries will determine the amount of compensation you can expect. Some injuries only affect you for only a few weeks or even months but others will have a an extended or permanent impact on your life.
It may take a while to determine fault, as it's not always clear in 18 wheeler accidents. This is because several parties are accountable including the driver of the truck and the company who employs him. In some instances, there might be mechanical issues in the vehicle that lead to a crash. In this situation it might be necessary to hold the repair shop or manufacturer accountable for any damages.
There are a myriad of variables that could affect the size of an 18-wheeler's settlement, however, these cases tend have larger settlements in general in comparison to those involving automobiles. This is due to the seriousness of the injuries and damage that can be caused by these accidents.