How Long Does an 18-Wheeler Claim Take? If you're involved in an accident involving a truck, you may be entitled for higher damages than you would in car accidents. However, the duration of a claim and the you can claim compensation is contingent on two major factors which are fault and damages. 18-Wheeler Car Accidents: Causes and Prevention Trucking companies employ these vehicles to transport goods over long distances. Customers rely on these massive hauls for everything from furniture to food to computer equipment. These giant trucks can cause serious accidents when they crash into passenger cars or other massive vehicles. These collisions can lead to serious injuries. Many of the causes for 18-wheeler accidents could be prevented. These accidents can occur because of conditions outside of the driver's control such as bad road or weather conditions, however, they can also be caused by the actions of drivers and other parties involved in a crash. Distracted driving is the most frequent cause of accidents. This includes drinking, eating, talking or texting on the phone, or even texting. This is particularly true when the driver is distracted while driving a large car, such as an 18-wheeler. A semi-truck accident can be caused by reckless driving, such as speeding up or tailgating. A lack of maintenance on vehicles is a major cause of 18-wheeler crashes. Trucking companies are required to make sure that their vehicles are maintained and in good operating condition. Failure to do so can result in breakdowns due to faulty brakes, tires and other components that could lead to an accident. Damages in 18-Wheeler accidents While any motor vehicle accident can cause serious injuries, collisions involving large trucks often result in serious and life-threatening injuries. Truck accident victims are compensated more than other auto accident victims. The primary reason for this distinction is that commercial vehicles carry much more weight and can cause more damage than passenger vehicles. It is also difficult to determine fault in a trucking accident. Commercial vehicles are controlled by multiple parties and they may try to blame one another for the accident. A lawyer with experience can ensure that all negligent parties are held accountable for their actions and ensure that every victim receives the appropriate compensation. Many accidents involving 18-wheelers are caused by drivers who are fatigued or distracted, or not paying attention to the road. Some drivers are pressured to get their cargo delivered on time or under pressure to perform the task. This could lead them to speed up to arrive at. A truck is more difficult to stop than cars. Therefore even a small mistake can be disastrous when an 18-wheeler driver is involved. When calculating damages an attorney may include not only the costs of medical treatment, property loss, and other financial losses, but also non-economic damages like emotional distress, trauma and suffering and pain. By incorporating all these elements into the settlement, the victim will receive the maximum amount. Insurance coverage for 18-wheeler accidents Although trucking companies and their insurers might want to settle an offer that is fair, it must be based on the totality of the cost of medical bills and lost income, as well as property damage and other damages. It is also essential that victims speak with an Denver 18 wheeler accident lawyer to assist them in proving negligence and secure the highest possible compensation. Because the dangers of 18-wheeler accidents are so important, truckers are required to carry liability insurance that far exceeds what is normally needed for passenger vehicles. The amount and type of insurance required will depend on factors such as the weight of the vehicle, whether or not it is hauling dangerous materials, and many more. The majority of truck accidents are settled through settlements. The process can be very long and complicated due to the fact that multiple parties are involved. Maintenance companies, dock workers and other negligent parties could also contribute to an accident. All of these parties are held to the responsibility of inspecting and maintain their trucks. They could also be held liable for accidents that occur due to their negligence. In addition to the typical commercial truck insurance policies, there is also an optional coverage option that can include specialized coverage such as cargo theft protection and specified peril insurance. This is insurance that protects a car from damage caused by a specific risk such as fire. Settlements for 18-Wheeler accidents The amount that a victim can receive for a truck crash varies because every case is unique, depending on the circumstances of the accident, liability and the damage. It is not uncommon for victims of 18-wheeler accidents to recover hundreds of thousands, or even millions of dollars. Your Indiana truck accident lawyer will fight to ensure you get the fair and complete settlement you deserve. They can help you determine your financial losses as well as other losses. You may suffer emotional distress or lose in quality following an incident involving semi-trucks. This could be as significant as the financial losses, but may not be evident to you or your insurance company. The extent of your injuries will affect the amount that you're awarded. A serious injury could result in a greater amount of compensation particularly if punitive damages are awarded for the reckless or unsafe behavior of the person responsible. It is crucial to engage a truck accident lawyer for this kind of case as the parties at fault are likely to try to avoid being held liable by prolonging negotiations or attempting to extend the statute of limitations. A good lawyer knows how to identify these attempts and ensure that things are moving forward. They can also help you get the medical care you require as well as take care of any other issues that you may face after a crash with an 18-wheeler.