An 18-wheeler accident can be one of the most serious types of auto accidents. The size and weight of these vehicles often cause severe injuries and damage.
If you or a loved one were injured in an 18-wheeler accident in St. Louis, MO, you may wonder how long it takes to settle a personal injury case. Our St. Louis truck accident lawyers can help you understand the potential timeline for your claim and fight for maximum compensation.
For guidance, contact Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers at (636) 519-0085 to request a free initial consultation.
How Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers Can Help You After an 18-Wheeler Accident in St. Louis, MO
The personal injury team at Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers has represented accident victims across Missouri for decades. We’ve secured hundreds of millions of dollars for people facing medical bills, lost wages, and other damages after serious crashes.
Our St. Louis personal injury lawyers can bring over 30 years of combined experience to your truck accident case and will help you by:
- Investigating the cause of your 18-wheeler accident
- Gathering medical records, accident reports, and other evidence
- Identifying potentially liable parties and proving negligence
- Interviewing eyewitnesses and retaining experts
- Valuing your economic and non-economic damages
- Negotiating a settlement for maximum compensation
- Filing a truck accident lawsuit, if necessary
Schedule a free consultation today if you or a loved one was injured in an accident involving an 18-wheeler in St. Louis, Missouri.
Factors That Can Influence the Settlement Timeline of an 18-Wheeler Accident Claim
Several factors may influence how long it takes to settle an 18-wheeler accident case. Some of the most common factors include:
1. The Severity of Your Injuries
The extent of your injuries is one of the most significant factors that affects the settlement timeline. Severe injuries require longer medical treatment and recovery times.
Negotiations typically do not begin until your medical condition has stabilized and you reach maximum medical improvement. This will allow you to better assess whether a settlement offer will compensate you for your current and future medical expenses.
2. The Complexity of Your Case
Truck accident cases are complex. They may involve complicated insurance policies, multiple parties, and large amounts of evidence. It can take time to determine who may be liable for your injuries. Drivers, trucking companies, mechanics, and other parties could all share some level of liability.
3. The Process of Gathering Evidence
Obtaining critical evidence such as black box data, maintenance records, and driver logs can be time-consuming. Trucking companies may delay or resist providing essential documentation, but a lawyer can help lead a thorough investigation on your behalf so that no details are overlooked.
4. Negotiations for Fair Compensation
Negotiating with large insurance companies and trucking corporations can be a lengthy process. These companies often attempt to minimize payouts, and achieving a fair settlement may require multiple rounds of negotiations. You should be patient and willing to counter offers in order to secure maximum compensation.
5. The Litigation Process
You may need to litigate your case if it cannot be settled out of court. The litigation process, including discovery, depositions, and court scheduling, can add months or even years to the timeline. However, going to court may be necessary to secure the compensation you deserve.
Who Could Be Liable for an 18-Wheeler Truck Accident?
Determining liability for an 18-wheeler accident can be challenging because multiple parties may share responsibility.
Potentially responsible parties may include:
- The truck driver: A driver may be liable for speeding or driving while distracted, fatigued, or impaired.
- The trucking company: A company may be liable for negligent hiring, poor training, or encouraging drivers to violate safety regulations.
- Cargo loaders: Cargo loaders may be liable for unbalanced loads or unsecured cargo that falls and causes an accident.
- Vehicle manufacturers: Manufacturers of defective parts can contribute to accidents.
A St. Louis truck accident attorney will investigate the cause of your 18-wheeler collision and identify potentially liable parties.
What If I’m Partly Responsible for an 18-Wheeler Truck Accident in Missouri?
Missouri follows a pure comparative negligence rule in personal injury cases involving shared responsibility. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for an 18-wheeler accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your share of fault.
A settlement may take longer if an insurance company alleges that you are partly responsible for your accident. An experienced Missouri truck accident lawyer can help minimize your fault percentage and present evidence in your favor.
What Damages Can I Recover in a Truck Accident Settlement?
Victims of 18-wheeler accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses: Compensation for current and future medical costs related to your injuries.
- Lost wages: Compensation for wages lost due to your inability to work.
- Loss of earning capacity: Compensation for lost income when injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or earning the same amount.
- Property damage: Compensation to repair or replace your vehicle.
- Pain and suffering and other non-economic losses: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
A truck accident lawyer in St. Louis will evaluate your case to determine the full range of damages you may be entitled to.
Contact Our St. Louis Truck Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation To Discuss Your Case
If you or a loved one have been injured in an 18-wheeler accident, our team of St. Louis personal injury attorneys can help you pursue a claim for injuries and other damages. Schedule a free consultation today to discuss your case and options.
