Russell & Hill, PLLC

I Was Hit by a Semi-Truck, What Type of Damages Can I Recover?

Posted on December 23, 2019Posted By Russell Hill

Anyone involved in an accident with a truck has undoubtedly been through a scary experience. Truck accident victims could be entitled to significant compensation if the crash was caused by the truck driver or trucking company. These incidents are largely preventable, but they occur on a regular basis. At Russell & Hill, PLLC, our knowledgeable Seattle truck accident attorneys are ready to get to work helping you secure the compensation you deserve.

Semi-truck accidents can cause serious injuries

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), we know that there were around 148,000 people injured in large truck accidents during the latest reporting year. Over 4,700 people lost their lives. Because of the size and weight of these trucks, the injuries are often severe. It is not uncommon for our Seattle truck accident attorneys to help those who have sustained the following:

  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Bone fractures and dislocations
  • Loss of or damage to a bodily organ
  • Dismemberment or amputation
  • Significant disfigurement

There are various types of damages you can recover from the liable party in these incidents. This can include both economic and non-economic damages such as the following:

  • Coverage of all medical expenses related to the crash
  • Recovery of lost wages if you are unable to work
  • Loss of future earnings if a disability prevents you from returning to work
  • Coverage of physical therapy
  • Pain and suffering damages
  • Loss of enjoyment of life damages
  • Possible punitive damages against the negligent party

There are often many negligent parties involved

In many truck accident cases, the incident is caused by a truck driver’s negligence. This could be due to a driver:

  • Not following traffic laws
  • Operating while impaired
  • Operating while distracted
  • Operating while fatigued

However, other parties can also be at fault. This can include a truck company. The FMCSA requires that truck companies regularly inspect and maintain each vehicle. If any part of a truck malfunction, a serious crash could occur. Trucking companies are also responsible for ensuring that the drivers they hire are trained to do their jobs.

There are also times when a truck manufacturer or parts manufacturer could be held responsible. If they allow defective products to reach the consumer (in this case, the trucking company), they could be held liable for any crash that occurs.

Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation and will gather all records necessary to determine which party is at fault.

Let our truck accident attorneys help

If you or someone you love has been injured in a truck crash that was caused by a truck driver or trucking company, please seek legal assistance immediately. At Russell & Hill, PLLC, we understand that this is a scary and confusing time for you. Our compassionate and experienced team is ready to get to work securing the compensation you deserve. When you need a Seattle truck accident attorney, you can contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or calling 800-529-0842.

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