What You Need to Know about Semi-Truck Accident Settlements

By Warren & Kallianos, PLLC | August 11, 2016

Sharing the road with large vehicles, like tractor-trailer trucks and semis, can be dangerous. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that in a recent year, 85 percent of large trucks involved in fatal crashes were heavy large trucks, defined as a vehicle with a gross weight greater than 26,000 pounds. That same year, there were an estimated 111,000 people injured in crashes involving large trucks.

If you have been in a tractor-trailer crash in North Carolina, here are some things that you need to consider in regards to obtaining a semi-truck accident settlement.

You Will Need to Show Fault

North Carolina is an at-fault car insurance state, which means that in order to recover a settlement for your injuries, you will need to prove the fault of the responsible party. In a truck accident, there are a number of parties who may be liable, including the truck driver, the trucking company, the truck manufacturer, a loader or shipper of cargo, and others.

If you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, you cannot recover a settlement. North Carolina is a contributory negligence state, which means that a plaintiff cannot recover compensation if they are found to be at all responsible for causing the accident. As such, it is imperative that you gather the right evidence to prove the negligence of the other party.

How a Law Firm Could Help You Obtain a Truck Accident Settlement

Proving negligence can be very complicated. This is where an experienced law firm can help. Skilled personal injury attorneys can help you obtain a semi-truck accident settlement by:

  • Gathering evidence essential to your claim.
  • Consulting accident reconstruction experts who can get to the bottom of why the accident happened.
  • Organizing all documents, data, and evidence related to your case.
  • Proving that you suffered not only physical injuries, but emotional or psychological. damages as well.
  • Negotiating with an insurance company to get you the settlement that you deserve.

What Happens If a Settlement Cannot Be Reached?

Each truck accident is different, and therefore so is each settlement amount. If the insurance company does not offer a settlement that is just, and which adequately addresses the extent of the injuries you have suffered, the lawyers at Warren & Kallianos are prepared to help you bring a case in court. While going to court is not ideal, it may be the only way to recover the compensation that you deserve.

Contact Us Today

If you have been injured in a tractor-trailer accident that was not your fault, the North Carolina truck accident lawyers at Warren & Kallianos want to discuss your situation and offer you free advice about your legal options. When you are injured, you need someone on your side who you can trust. To schedule your free case consultation, contact us online or by phone today.

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