When involved in an accident with a commercial truck, the immense size and weight of the vehicle can cause significant damage to both you and your car. Due to the potential for severe damage from an 18-wheeler, settlements are generally much higher than those in accidents involving regular passenger vehicles.
The cost of your accident will largely depend on the percentage of fault assigned to the truck driver and the extent of your injuries. Because many variables influence a commercial truck accident, the settlement amount in Texas can vary significantly, ranging from tens of thousands to potentially over $100 million, depending on the specifics of the case.
In 2018, a Texas jury awarded $101 million in a truck accident case. Initially, the victim had no apparent injuries but later required major neck surgery and could no longer work. It was revealed that the truck driver was under the influence of drugs and had previous violations that should have disqualified him from driving.
In 2017, another Texas truck accident victim, who became a quadriplegic, was awarded $140 million. In that instance, the truck driver had breached multiple federal and state regulations and had been involved in several other accidents.
These cases highlight how severe negligence, as found in those incidents, can lead to some of the highest awards in personal injury cases involving trucks. While your accident may not involve the same level of negligence, you could still be eligible for a substantial claim. A commercial truck accident attorney can evaluate the circumstances of your case to estimate the potential value of your settlement.
What Factors Can Influence a Commercial Truck Accident Settlement?
Each truck accident is unique, even if some details may seem similar. Factors such as what the driver and victim were doing at the time of the collision, road and weather conditions, and the records of the truck driver and company all play a role in determining the settlement amount.
Other important considerations include:
- The seriousness of your injuries. More severe injuries and longer rehabilitation periods will result in a higher settlement. In cases where the accident was fatal, the settlement could be even larger.
- Medical costs. Treatments such as diagnostic tests, surgeries, hospital stays, and follow-up care all contribute to the final compensation. It’s crucial to seek medical care promptly after an accident to document your injuries.
- The impact on your daily life. If you’re able to fully recover and return to normal activities, your compensation may be lower than if, for example, you lost a limb or are unable to work due to the accident.
- The extent of property damage. The overall cost will also consider the damage to your vehicle and any other property involved in the accident.
- The driver’s conduct. If the truck driver was negligent or reckless, such as driving under the influence, breaking traffic laws, or falling asleep at the wheel, this can increase the settlement. A history of driving violations will also be considered.
- If the driver was on duty. When the driver was working at the time of the accident, the trucking company might share liability. This increases the chances of a larger settlement due to the company’s deeper financial resources.
The stronger the evidence in your case, the more likely it is that you will receive a larger settlement for your commercial truck accident. A skilled commercial vehicle accident attorney will gather documentation, evidence, and witness statements to substantiate the costs associated with your case. They will also represent your interests when dealing with insurance companies and trucking firms, ensuring you receive fair compensation for your injuries, even if the amount is not in the millions.
How a Commercial Truck Accident Lawyer Can Assist You
Being in a commercial truck accident can be life-altering. With so many aspects to consider, figuring out where to begin can feel overwhelming. A commercial truck accident lawyer can help you evaluate your current and future damages to calculate the potential value of your case.
When you hire a lawyer with experience handling truck accidents, your chances of securing a higher settlement improve. This is because experienced attorneys understand the specific regulations of the trucking industry, know what factors and costs are involved, and possess the negotiation skills needed to handle insurance companies and trucking firms that may try to minimize your compensation.
At FVF, our team of experienced commercial truck accident lawyers in Austin, TX, will work to secure the compensation you deserve, regardless of the true cost of your accident. To schedule a free, no-obligation consultation, contact us today.
