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What Is the Average Commercial Truck Accident Settlement

October 27, 2022 By John Torgenson

In 2021, there were 13,386 accidents involving trucks in Arizona, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation. In fact, there were even 51 accidents involving fire trucks.

Most of these accidents were caused by human error, such as drivers who were not paying attention, were speeding, or were under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Other causes include mechanical problems with the truck and weather conditions.

The majority of truck accidents in Arizona occur on interstate highways, particularly I-40 and I-10. These accidents can cause major traffic delays and often result in injuries or even fatalities.

If you are involved in a truck accident, it is important to seek legal help as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can help you recover compensation for your injuries and damages.

What is a Truck Accident Settlement?

A truck accident settlement is a legal agreement between the parties involved in a truck accident, in which the truck driver and/or trucking company agrees to pay damages to the victims in exchange for the victims not filing a lawsuit.

This type of settlement is usually reached after negotiations between the lawyers representing the parties and is typically less expensive and time-consuming than going to trial.

Trucking companies are eager to settle lawsuits for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, it is cheaper to settle a lawsuit than to go to trial. Second, settling a lawsuit avoids the publicity that would be generated by a trial. Third, a settlement allows the trucking company to deal directly with the victim and their representatives, rather than leaving it up to a judge or jury.

Finally, a settlement gives the trucking company the opportunity to negotiate a confidential settlement, which keeps the details of the case out of the public eye.

What To Do After a Truck Accident

After a truck accident, there are a few key things you should do to protect yourself and your interests. First, if you are able, get to a safe place and call the police. It is important to have an official record of the accident. Second, get medical attention, even if you don’t think you are seriously injured. Many injuries from truck accidents are not immediately apparent.

Next, gather the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident. Finally, contact an accident lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

How Truck Accident Settlements Are Determined

The process of negotiating and settling a truck accident claim is generally determined by the severity of the accident and the injuries suffered by the parties involved. If the accident resulted in only property damage, the process may be relatively simple and straightforward. However, if the accident resulted in personal injury or death, the process of reaching a settlement will likely be much more complex.

In cases involving personal injury or death, the first step in determining a settlement is to calculate the total amount of damages suffered by the plaintiff. This includes both economic damages, such as medical bills and lost wages, and noneconomic damages, such as pain and suffering. Once the total amount of damages is calculated, the plaintiff’s attorney will then begin negotiating with the trucking company’s insurance provider.

It’s important to note that the settlement process can be quite lengthy, and it’s not uncommon for it to take months or even years to reach a final agreement. In some cases, the parties may even go to trial if they’re unable to reach a settlement agreement.

How Are Truck Accident Settlements Determined?

If you have been involved in a truck accident on the highway in Arizona, it’s usually followed by a wide range of emotional distress and physical injuries. There are some crucial factors to consider when calculating a truck accident settlement.

  • Medical Bills. Truck accidents can be extremely dangerous, and many times, victims will need extensive medical care afterward.
  • Pain and Suffering. Unfortunately, after a truck accident, your quality of life may suffer. Compensation will be based on the type and length of suffering.
  • Property Damage. After a truck accident, it is likely your property damage will be severe.
  • Lost Wages. Any extended medical injuries could cost you time and work and result in lost wages that deserve to be reimbursed.
  • Punitive Damages. Punitive damages occur when the other driver is negligent or ignores state or company laws and regulations.
  • Wrongful Death. Unfortunately, some truck accidents will result in death. If you have been involved in a commercial vehicle collision that resulted in the death of an occupant, you have the right to file a wrongful death suit.

If you believe you deserve some or all the damages listed, it’s important to discuss your case in detail with an experienced accident attorney that specializes in truck accidents.

What is the Average Semi-Truck Accident Settlement?

While the details of every accident are different and settlements will vary depending on the seriousness of the commercial collision, the average settlement for truck accidents in the US is around $42,000, based on available data.

How Can an Arizona Truck Accident Lawyer Help?

After a truck accident, it is important to immediately consult an attorney for several reasons. An accident attorney can help after a truck accident by investigating the accident, gathering evidence, and interviewing witnesses.

First, an attorney can also help you determine what your legal options are and what steps you need to take to protect your rights. Second, an attorney can help you negotiate with the trucking company and their insurance company in order to get the best possible settlement for your case. Third, an attorney can help you gather evidence and build a strong case to support your claim. Finally, an attorney will represent you in court if your case goes to trial.

At Torgenson Law, you are more than just a case number, you’re a victim that deserves robust legal representation. Our experienced attorneys are expert trial lawyers who will stand up and defend your rights in court, if necessary.

Our entire staff will not stop fighting until we uncover every single detail of your accident that we need to know, and we are dedicated to helping you recover the maximum compensation for your pain and suffering.

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John Torgenson

John Torgenson is a highly experienced personal injury lawyer with over 20 years of practice in Arizona. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah and his Juris Doctor from Notre Dame. John has a proven track record of securing substantial verdicts and settlements, including an $8.25 million recovery for a gunshot injury victim. His expertise has earned him AVVO ratings and recognition as a Super Lawyer.

John is also a sought-after lecturer on personal injury law, sharing his extensive knowledge with peers and aspiring attorneys. Beyond his legal practice, John is an avid golfer and actively supports organizations like the Military Assistance Mission, Arizona School for the Arts, Page Balloon Regatta, University of Arizona Foundation, Junior Achievement of Arizona, and the Tim Huff Pro Bono Golf Classic.

Passionate about advocating for injury victims, John dedicates his career to battling insurance companies and corporate interests, ensuring that the rights of those who are hurt are vigorously defended.