If you have been involved in an 18 wheeler accident, you may be interested in finding out what the average settlement is for such a case. You will also want to know about what is commonly associated with such an accident, and how to obtain evidence for your case.
Common causes of 18-wheeler accidents
A serious 18-wheeler accident can cause life-altering injuries and death. Injuries may range from soft tissue and broken bones to severe burns and spinal cord damage. In some cases, paralysis or even coma can result from traumatic brain injury.
Often, an innocent person injured in a trucking accident faces a long and difficult road to recovery. There are many steps a victim should take to ensure that they receive full compensation for their injuries.
The first step is to prove that the tractor-trailer operator was at fault. This can be tricky, but a truck accident attorney can help.
In addition to speeding, another common cause of 18-wheeler accidents is driver fatigue. The driver is often forced to work long hours and drive on an ungodly schedule. When the driver is tired, he or she does not pay attention to the road. Often, drivers are distracted when making phone calls, texting, eating or watching a movie.
Other causes of 18-wheeler accidents include inadequate maintenance and defective parts. Even when individual truck parts are not defective, malfunctioning equipment or a faulty brake job can lead to an accident.
Average settlement amount for an 18-wheeler accident in Texas
It’s not always easy to determine the average settlement amount for an 18-wheeler accident in Texas. There are many factors to consider. For instance, how much the accident was compared to other similar incidents.
How long the case takes to settle can vary. For instance, if several parties are involved, the settlement may take longer. Then, the value of the damages can also vary.
A large part of the total compensation is made up of non-economic damages. This can include emotional distress and scarring. The medical expenses incurred by the victim are another factor.
An experienced 18 wheeler accident lawyer in Little Rock, AR can help you assess the total value of the case. He or she can also help you prove the merit of a claim. Choosing the right lawyer is a crucial decision. A lawyer can also advise you on the proper steps within the statute of limitations.
In some cases, the best way to get the most out of a settlement is to file a lawsuit. This will ensure that your rights are protected. However, in most cases, settlements are made before a trial.
Noneconomic damages for your injuries
When it comes to compensation after an 18 wheeler accident, there are a variety of different types of damages you can pursue. It’s important to hire an attorney to help you navigate the legal system and make sure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Economic damages are tangible financial losses. They include medical bills, lost wages, and therapy costs. They can be a good way to help you recoup your losses in the short term and pay for future expenses.
However, noneconomic damages are much more personal. They account for things such as mental trauma, impairment, and emotional distress. They can be a good bargaining chip during settlement negotiations.
Although the law allows you to recover money for noneconomic damages, many people are hesitant to do so. This is because noneconomic damages are a bit more difficult to quantify.
One of the most enlightening aspects of a lawsuit is the process of establishing liability. This can be challenging, but an experienced attorney can help you evaluate and present your case.
Obtaining evidence in an 18-wheeler accident
When you’ve been involved in a truck accident, it’s crucial to gather evidence to prove that the other party was negligent. If the driver of the truck is liable for the crash, you can seek compensation for your injuries. However, getting all of the evidence you need can be difficult. You’ll need an experienced truck accident attorney to help you get the information you need.
One of the best ways to obtain evidence is to speak to witnesses. Eyewitness statements are very important to reconstructing the events of the collision. You should also make sure to speak to first responders such as firefighters and police officers.
You should also take photographs of the scene of the accident and your injuries. Photographs can be used as evidence in court to demonstrate negligence on the part of the trucker. You can also gather records from the trucker’s cellphone to prove that the driver was texting when the crash occurred.