What You Need to Know About Truck Accident Lawsuits
A truck accident often leaves severe damages and sometimes fatalities because of its large size. When a small four-wheel car gets into a collision with an eighteen-wheel truck, the four-wheel vehicle will almost certainly have more damages than the truck. Luckily, you can sue for damages if you happen to be in such an accident. The point of filing for a lawsuit is for you to seek financial compensation that will help you move on after the accident.
The compensation is for your medical bills, and to enable you to stay afloat financially if your injuries make it difficult for you to continue working. You will probably need a new car after this accident, and the money should cater to that as well.
This information helps familiarize yourself with truck accident lawsuits, and understand the necessary steps to take if you are in such a situation.
Who Files for a Truck Accident Claim?
If you’ve been in a truck accident, and you can prove negligence on the defendant’s part, you can file for a truck accident lawsuit. Truck drivers often drive for long distances and get tired. Some of the common causes of such accidents include the driver falling asleep due to fatigue, inadequate training, or a host of other negligent reasons.
Who Are the Defendants?
The defendants in a truck accident lawsuit include the truck driver, the company the driver works for, the cargo manufacturer, or the truck manufacturer. Any of these people can be the defendant, depending on the cause of the accident.
When to File for a Truck Accident Claim?
Once the accident happens, you must start the filing process immediately, as per the statute of limitations. It may seem like a long time but there is a lot of work that goes into the filing process, and it takes time.
Your case needs investigation to prove negligence on the defendant’s side. Therefore, you need to hire a truck accident lawyer to help you through the filing process.
How Long Does a Truck Accident Lawsuit Take?
Every case is different, and some take months while others take years. If the case proceeds to court, it is likely to take longer than if you and the other party agree to a settlement. However, having a lawyer through the negotiations and the trial period will make it easier for you, even if it takes longer than you anticipated.
Reasons You Need a Truck Accident Lawyer
There are several reasons why it is essential to hire a truck accident lawyer. The first one is to help you with the investigations and filing process. You must be able to prove negligence for your case to be viable. The defendants will likely avoid blame, and if you do not have representation, it might be intimidating, especially if you lack experience.
A lawyer will help by finding facts and representing you during the negotiations with the other party. There is also a lot of paperwork that can be confusing and tiring for you; having a lawyer will ensure that they handle all this work on your behalf, allowing you time to recuperate.
It is impossible to fight for an unknown value. A lawyer will help value your claim so that you are able to know if the defendants are offering the right amount or taking advantage of you. These lawyers will also represent you in the trial if the negotiations do not yield any fruits.
It is impossible to ignore the amount of knowledge and experience lawyers have. The kind of advice they will offer is beneficial to you and winning your lawsuit.
The Process of Truck Accident Lawsuits
It is difficult to go through a truck accident lawsuit. However, if you are familiar with the process, you will know what to expect. The defendants may vary depending on the accident’s details, and it may be the truck driver, the truck company, or even the shipment manufacturer.
Therefore, it is essential to hire a truck accident lawyer. They help you with the investigations and filing process. They will also help you with your paperwork and negotiations with the defendant’s side.
A lawyer will also offer representation in the trial if the negotiations fail to work. They will also value your claim and ensure you get the right amount of compensation. With this information, you are in a position to go through a truck accident lawsuit if you happen to be in such an accident.