The outcomes of many 18-wheeler accident cases are confidential. So, there is no information regarding the average settlement amount for these situations.
Your 18-wheeler accident settlement depends on the specific circumstances of your case. The nature of your condition, the cost of your financial losses, and your quality of life will determine your case’s value. You can work with our team to learn more about what constitutes a fair settlement offer.
The Factors That Determine Your Case’s Value
The damages from 18-wheeler accidents are calculated on a case-by-case basis. Your case’s value, as well as the types of damages you can recover, will depend on:
The Severity of Your Condition
Suppose two people were injured in the same 18-wheeler accident. One person suffered broken bones, while the other party suffered a twisted ankle. Healthline notes that a moderate ankle sprain can take up to four weeks to heal, while a broken bone can take several months.
In this case, the party with the broken bone would likely be able to recover more money. Their recovery period and medical expenses would be more substantial than their injured counterpart’s.
The Cost of Your Economic Losses
The cost of your injury-related losses will have a direct impact on the value of your claim. Some insurance companies will add up your financial losses and multiply them by a certain number. Their findings will reflect the value of your pain and suffering.
Recoverable financial damages include the following:
- Past and future medical bills
- Lost wages, bonuses, and employee benefits
- Self-employment, commissions, and promotions
- Lost future earnings
- Out-of-pocket expenses (like the cost of renting a vehicle)
- Vehicle repair and transportation costs
- Burial and funeral expenses
Your Quality of Life
An accident with an 18-wheeler can change your life in a second. You might have trouble living independently, caring for your children, or working. Our firm will evaluate the following circumstances to calculate your damages’ value:
- Your mobility
- Your physical appearance (if you suffered scars or disfigurement)
- Your day-to-day function
- The length of your recovery period
- The types of treatments you will need
- Your future earning capacity
- Whether you lost a loved one
- Whether you can maintain a full-time job
Other factors could apply to your situation.
How Negligence Impacts Your Settlement’s Value?
According to OCGA §51-12-33, Georgia operates under contributory negligence laws. This statute impacts both your ability to recover damages.
If you are not primarily responsible for the collision, you could seek damages. However, if you were partially responsible, your portion of fault will detract from your final settlement’s value.
For instance, if your damages cost $100,000, and you were 10 percent responsible, you could recover $90,000. Your 18-wheeler accident lawyer can give you a better idea of how contributory negligence may impact your case after reviewing your accident.
Your Settlement Can Account for Your Non-Economic Damages
Your non-economic damages will be based on the circumstances we mentioned earlier. These losses pertain to your physical and emotional hardships after getting hurt.
They include:
- Pain and suffering and inconvenience
- Disability, scarring, and disfigurement
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of parental guidance and household benefits
- Impaired quality of life
Georgia does not have limits on how much you can receive for non-economic damages.
What Information Can Prove the Value of Your Case?
We cannot approach the insurer and just ask for money with no supporting evidence. We will need information that proves the value of your losses.
Such supporting information can include:
- Your property repair receipts
- Your healthcare bills
- Your employment records
- Invoices and billing statements from your out-of-pocket expenses
We will also consult with economists, healthcare professionals, and actuaries to learn more about your losses. We are determined to secure the compensation you need and deserve.
Does Time Play a Factor in Your Ability to Recoup Damages?
If you do not file your case within the applicable statute of limitations, you could lose the right to seek damages––even if your expenses are costly.
OCGA §9-3-33 says that you have two years from the collision’s date to seek compensation. This is the deadline that applies to lawsuits. Your insurance claim will likely have a different time frame.
You might have more time to act if:
- You were hurt as someone under 18 years old.
- The driver fled the accident scene, left the state, or concealed their identity.
- You did not discover your injuries until after the accident happened.
- You are filing a wrongful death lawsuit, where your deadline would start from the date of your loved one’s passing.
Let our team decide how long you have to act.
Get Started with Your Free Case Evaluation
As you can see, there are many circumstances that can impact your settlement after an 18-wheeler accident. Call Kaine Law for your free consultation and to learn more about the average settlement for an 18-wheeler accident.
We can also explain your legal options and your case’s potential.
Call or text 404-214-2001 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
