How Long Does an 18-Wheeler Lawsuit Take?
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If you have been involved in an 18-wheeler accident, you may want to know how long it will take to settle your claim and get the compensation you deserve. However, predicting precisely how long an 18-wheeler accident lawsuit will take is impossible. On average, these lawsuits can take anywhere from six months to two years – or even more – to settle because of the complexities of the case. The lawyers at HGSK Law Firm can estimate the time frame based on the nature of your case. As Philadelphia truck accident lawyers, we will represent you through the insurance claim process and help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
Factors That Affect the Time to Settle
The following are reasons why your 18-wheeler accident claim may take longer to settle:
Determining Fault
Establishing fault in an 18-wheeler accident can be very complicated. In most cases, liability may involve multiple parties, such as the driver, trucking company, insurance company, and truck manufacturers. To avoid taking liability, insurance companies will go above and beyond to shift all the blame to you. Your compensation can be significantly reduced if you are found to be partly at fault.
That’s why a thorough investigation is needed to determine exactly what happened. This may require bringing in accident reconstruction experts, engineers, and other professionals to recreate the accident scene and get to the root of things to determine the liable party (-ies). A truck accident lawyer at HGSK Law Firm can thoroughly investigate the accident to help you get the evidence needed to fight for compensation.
The Severity of the Injuries
Due to their big size, 18-wheeler accidents often have more extreme consequences than regular car accidents. The Department of Transportation controls the size and weight of the trucks on the road to facilitate safety.
Suppose you have sustained severe injuries after an 18-wheeler accident. In that case, our attorneys at HGSK Law Firm may advise you to file your lawsuit until you have fully recovered or attained what doctors call maximum medical improvement (MMI). This is because it’s only after you reach this point that your attorney can determine the true value of your claim.
Negotiations With the Insurance Company
After attaining full recovery or reaching MMI, your attorney at HGSK Law Firm will begin negotiations with the trucking company’s insurance company. Sometimes, the liable party’s insurance company may make a reasonable settlement immediately so your lawyer can settle the claim quickly.
However, in other cases, they may be unwilling to negotiate in good faith and make unreasonable offers that may not be close to what you deserve. When this happens, your attorney may have to continue negotiating and, if all fails, choose to take the case to court. In either case, you may have to wait months or more than a year to receive your compensation.
The Value of Your Claim
The higher the compensation amount, the more time it will take to settle the claim. The insurance company can resort to any means to reduce its liability and lower the value of your claim. Accusations of comparative negligence can also derail the compensation process even further, as your attorney has to continue fighting for rightful compensation.
Preparation is the Key to Maximum Compensation
The following tips and strategies can help you prepare for your lawsuit after an 18-wheeler accident to help you get maximum compensation for your injuries and other damages:
Document the Accident Scene if You Can
If you have not sustained life-threatening injuries that require immediate medical attention, ensure you collect as much evidence of the accident scene as you can. Take pictures of all vehicles involved, the weather, and any signages. Exchange insurance information with the other driver and collect witness statements and contact information.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Seeking prompt medical assistance is vital for your health and lawsuit’s success. Your medical record will help you establish the extent of your injuries and related medical costs. Waiting to go to the hospital may weaken your lawsuit by allowing the defense to argue that your injuries were not serious.
Engaging Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are famous for their ruthless defense strategies, and dealing with them needs a clever approach. Working with legal representation from HGSK Law Firm can help you maneuver the tactics employed by insurance companies to lower the value of your lawsuit. They can handle the negotiation process to ensure you get what you deserve.
Understanding the Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a truck accident in Pennsylvania is two years from the accident date. If you do not file your lawsuit within this timeframe, you may risk the forfeiture of your right to claim compensation. Consulting with LGSK Law Firm ensures you do not miss such essential deadlines.
The Role of Witnesses
Witnesses can play a vital role in establishing fault in 18-wheeler accidents. Witness testimony can significantly boost your case. Their inputs add a layer of credibility to your case, increasing your chances of deriving maximum compensation.
Get Legal Assistance From a Personal Injury Lawyer at HGSK Law Firm
18-wheeler accidents can be incredibly complex and may take a long time to solve. Working with a truck accident lawyer can help you navigate this process as you recover from your injuries. They can help you collect evidence, establish all recoverable damages, and handle communication with all involved parties.
If you’ve been in a truck accident, contact us today if you may be considering a trucking accident claim. You will get a free consultation to discuss your case and how our legal team can assist you.