Share this article
How Much Will You Get Paid if an 18 Wheeler Hit You?
A truck accident can leave you between a rock and a hard place. You’re dealing with mounting medical bills, missed paychecks, and a long road to recovery. Meanwhile, the other driver is backed by a trucking company with deep pockets and an army of lawyers ready to deny or delay your claim.
It can feel like you’re playing a game where the rules are stacked against you. But what if we told you that you could level the playing field? At Onward Injury Law, we’ve walked many clients through this process and secured the compensation they deserve.
After an accident as serious as this, we know one of the first questions on your mind is, “How much compensation can I expect?” and truthfully, it depends on the facts of your case. Be wary of lawyers telling you they can guarantee a specific settlement amount or outcome for your case—every situation is unique and depends on various factors.
We’ve secured over half a million in settlements for our clients involved in truck accidents alone, and we can tell you that the bigger the payout, the more severe the accident. Here’s what you need to know about compensation after a commercial truck accident.
Factors That Affect Your 18-Wheeler Accident Settlement Amount
When you’re involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler, it’s natural to wonder how much compensation you might be entitled to. The truth is that every case is unique, and several key factors can impact your settlement amount.
Severity of Injuries Sustained in the Truck Collision
One of the most significant factors in determining your settlement is the severity of your injuries. 18-wheeler accidents often result in catastrophic injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and multiple fractures.
These injuries can require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care, which can lead to substantial medical bills.
In addition to medical expenses, you may also be entitled to compensation for lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working, as well as pain and suffering damages for the physical and emotional trauma you’ve endured.
Liability and Fault in the Semi-Truck Accident
To secure a settlement, you’ll need to prove that the truck driver or trucking company was at fault for the accident. This may involve demonstrating that the driver was negligent in some way, such as driving while tired, distracted, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
In Illinois, even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be able to recover damages as long as your fault is less than 50%. This is known as modified comparative fault.
Insurance Coverage of the Trucking Company and Driver
Commercial trucks must carry higher insurance limits than passenger vehicles, but the specific coverage can vary. At a minimum, most trucking companies carry policy limits of around $500,000; however, some carry policies with much higher limits.
It is crucial to work with an experienced attorney who can navigate the complex world of insurance negotiations and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Our Truck Accident Attorneys Help You Maximize Your Settlement
Dealing with the aftermath of an 18-wheeler accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to focus on your physical and emotional recovery. That’s where an experienced truck accident attorney can make all the difference.
Investigating and Gathering Evidence to Support Your Claim
To build a strong case, your attorney will thoroughly investigate and gather evidence to support your claim. This may include:
- Reviewing police reports and accident scene photos
- Interviewing witnesses and collecting their statements
- Obtaining the truck driver’s logbooks and employment records
- Consulting with accident reconstruction experts to determine how the accident occurred
Negotiating with Insurance Companies on Your Behalf
Insurance companies are in the business of making money, not paying out large settlements. They may offer you a lowball settlement or pressure you to accept a quick payout before you fully understand the extent of your injuries and damages.
Your attorney will handle all communication with the insurance companies and negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair settlement. They’ll use their knowledge of the law and their experience with similar cases to advocate for your best interests.
Real-Life 18-Wheeler Accident Settlements
At Onward Injury Law, we’ve secured numerous significant settlements for our clients involved in 18-wheeler accidents. Here are just a few examples:
- $525,000 settlement for a trucking accident in Macon County
- $200,000 settlement for a trucking accident in Piatt County
- $100,000 settlement for a car accident in Champaign County
- $100,000 settlement for a car accident in McLean County
While these results do not guarantee the outcome in your specific case, they demonstrate our commitment to fighting for the compensation our clients deserve.
Your Road to Recovery Starts Here
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler, you don’t have to go through this challenging time alone. The compassionate, experienced attorneys at Onward Injury Law are here to guide you every step of the way.
We know the toll an accident can take on your life, and we’re committed to helping you secure the resources you need to move forward. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation, and let us put our knowledge and experience to work for you.
Remember, you only have one chance to settle your claim, so it’s crucial to have a skilled attorney who will fight for your best interests. At Onward Injury Law, we’re ready to be your advocate and partner on the road to recovery.
Share this article
