A semi-truck accident can be terrifying and cause ongoing, painful injuries. Our attorneys understand how worrying this can be, but we are here to help. Our clients often ask, How long does it take to settle a semi-truck accident? It typically will take at least a few months, but no standard timeframe exists.
The timeline for settling a semi-truck accident case varies because each claim is so different. The claim will take longer if there are challenging investigations or major injuries. We’ll discuss some of the elements of a semi-truck accident claim that can change the timeframe of your case.
Ongoing Investigations
How long does it take to settle a truck accident case? Often, the settlement process involves lengthy investigations. And investigations for a semi-truck collision can take a substantial amount of time because multiple state and federal regulations govern trucking companies. Your attorney must also look at drug and alcohol test results, analyze driver logs, and get maintenance records.
Challenging Negotiations
Negotiations can also be complex and cause the timeframe of settling your claim to change. For example, there may be multiple rounds of negotiation before a claim is resolved. The negotiation process often takes longer because the issue of medical care needs to be hammered out. Ensuring you receive enough compensation to cover your ongoing medical expenses can be lengthy. Put simply, it takes time for your attorney to help you recover a fair settlement award.
Multiple Parties Sharing in Liability
There may be numerous potentially liable parties in a semi-truck accident claim, making the claim take longer to settle. Some of the responsible parties may include:
- The shipping company,
- The truck driver,
- Mechanics, and
- The trucking company.
It will take time to determine the liability of all the parties involved in the accident. There could be a negligence claim or product liability claim, for example. Many of these individuals will also have their lawyers and insurance companies fighting for them while the fault is divided among the parties. Given the involvement of multiple parties, you should expect at least several months before a resolution of your claim.
Significant Injuries
How long does it take to settle a car accident lawsuit with a truck? The answer to this question depends on how severe your injuries are. The immense weight of a large truck can mean that injuries are sometimes worse than in a typical car accident. Complicated injuries mean it will take longer for your case to be resolved. If you have suffered injuries in a semi-truck accident, ensure you have a lawyer to fight on your behalf. At Gerling Law, we are ready to advocate for the compensation you need during this time.
Other Damages
Other damages, such as lost wages due to an injury, will also affect the timeline of your case. Additionally, losses in a semi-truck accident will probably involve non-economic costs, such as pain and suffering and other forms of emotional distress. And you may have property damage, such as a totaled vehicle.
Our accomplished lawyers will discuss your case with your physicians to ensure that you get the compensation you need and deserve. Determining the amount of your damages can be a lengthy process.
How Can I Resolve My Claim Faster?
Various steps will help you recover compensation more quickly. First, seek medical care immediately after the accident. Getting prompt medical care will create proof of your injuries in a semi-truck accident. You should also gather photos and contact information at the accident scene. Our attorneys at Gerling Law are here to help you collect the evidence you need after an accident.
How Our Attorneys Can Assist You
How long does it take to settle a semi-truck accident? There’s no firm answer because so much depends on the circumstances of your case. Having an experienced attorney at Gerling Law by your side is vital after a semi-truck collision. Our high-quality lawyers prioritize each of our clients and work to get the best results for you as soon as possible. We have recovered over $500 million for our clients, and we are here to fight for you. At Gerling Law, our practice areas include personal injury claims, truck accident claims, and pedestrian accidents, to name a few. Furthermore, our attorneys serve the entire tri-state area of Indiana, Kentucky, and Illinois. For more information, contact us today at 888-437-5464.
