New Jersey Truck Accident Settlements
Truck accidents often lead to devastating consequences. They have an impact that is not just physical but also emotional and financial. For those harmed, a settlement can offer a helpful path to recovery. No two settlements are exactly alike, even for cases involving similar circumstances.
New Jersey truck accident settlements are influenced by several different factors. Our truck accident attorneys could help you understand what to expect as you pursue a claim following an injury.
How Do Truck Accident Settlements Work?
While many people think injury cases move through the court, most truck accident claims are resolved outside of the courtroom. Settlements typically involve negotiations between the injured party and the trucking company’s insurance provider or legal counsel. This process can take several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the case.
Truck accidents can be complex. This is just one of the reasons why a person may want to reach a settlement after a truck collision in New Jersey. For instance, the case may become more complicated when multiple parties can be held liable. These parties include truck drivers, trucking companies, maintenance providers, parts manufacturers, and even government entities. Additionally, the severity of the injuries can make a difference in whether a settlement is a good idea. Common truck accident injuries include spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, and multiple fractures. High medical costs can drive up settlement values.
Key Factors That Influence Settlement Amounts
Economic damages are a major factor in influencing truck accident settlement amounts in New Jersey. These damages include past and future medical expenses and lost wages. Economic damages also include diminished earning capacity and property damage. The settlement value also impacts non-economic damages, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and lost enjoyment of life.
The court follows a comparative negligence rule. This means that throughout the state, an injured party cannot recover damages if they are deemed to be more than 50% at fault for their injuries. Lawyers help demonstrate that the part the injured person played in causing their injuries was minimal. Without a lawyer, an insurance company might try to convince a person that they are at fault.
Why Legal Representation Is Crucial
Even if a truck accident victim intends to pursue a settlement, they should still consider hiring legal representation in New Jersey to walk them through this process. For instance, a lawyer could assist with complex liability issues and determining fault even when multiple parties are involved. Attorneys also help their clients avoid low settlement offers.
Lawyers also build legal strategies by gathering medical documentation, reconstructing accidents, and handling communications from insurers. The threat of litigation can also drive higher offers in the settlement stage, which means the other party may be more likely to settle if the injured person has an attorney.
Contact a New Jersey Attorney Today to Discuss Truck Accident Settlements
Choosing a legal firm with experience in truck accidents can be helpful in settling your commercial trucking case quickly. Not only will a good attorney offer personalized attention, but they will also build an aggressive legal strategy that takes into account all the damages you have experienced.
If you or a loved one has been injured, understanding your legal options may be the first step toward justice. Meet with one of our lawyers today to discuss New Jersey truck accident settlements.
