If you’re working with a personal injury lawyer to pursue truck accident compensation, there are a few key things you should know. Financial compensation is never a certain outcome, especially if the case ends up going to trial. Take a closer look at what impacts truck accident settlements below.

What Types of Damages Can Victims Recover?

Truck accident victims could pursue several types of compensation, including:

  • Economic damages: Measurable costs, such as medical expenses and lost wages, are considered economic damages.
  • Non-economic damages: A claimant’s emotional distress, pain, and suffering could be subject to compensation.
  • Punitive damages: Some victims pursue punitive damages when the accident stems from another party’s gross negligence.

Compensation May Come From Multiple At-Fault Parties

When a truck strikes your vehicle, you may assume that the driver is automatically at fault. However, this isn’t always the case. Evidence is crucial for determining fault, and one or more parties may be responsible for your injuries.

Potential at-fault parties include:

  • The driver: Truck drivers could be liable if they’re negligent behind the wheel. Using their phone while driving or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol may count as negligent behavior.
  • The freight company: A trucking company’s liability comes into question if it fails to maintain its fleet or improperly trains its operators.
  • A parts manufacturer: Defective parts could cause a crash. In this case, victims may be able to pursue truck accident compensation through the manufacturer.
  • A local municipality: If poor road conditions lead to a collision, a government entity may be held responsible for failing to maintain the roadways.

A Victim’s Potential Compensation Amount Depends on Several Factors

The first question many people ask a personal injury lawyer is, “How much is my case worth?” While compensation is never a guaranteed outcome, cases that do result in a financial award depend on a few key factors.

Liability determination impacts whether a plaintiff can recover damages. Clients of Yale Haymond Law PLLC are subject to North Carolina’s contributory negligence law. Under this rule, plaintiffs are ineligible for compensation if they’re partially at fault in an accident.

The plaintiff’s injury severity is another major component in reaching a settlement. Cases may settle for more money if the victim sustains serious injuries that significantly impact their finances and quality of life.

For example, if a semi-truck rear-ends a vehicle and leaves the car’s driver paralyzed, they could argue for substantial compensation. The victim’s permanent disability may require extensive medical treatment, prevent them from working, and lead to mental anguish. Maximum compensation in this case may look much different from a case where a victim is expected to recover from a minor injury.

Consult a Personal Injury Attorney To Discuss Your Options

At Yale Haymond Law PLLC, we strive to protect your interests after a truck accident. Review your case with one of our experienced lawyers. You may be eligible for truck accident compensation based on your unique circumstances.

To request a free consultation, submit our online contact form or call (704) 800-4357 today.