Chesterfield Commercial Vehicle Accident Lawyers

What Compensation Could Be Available in a Commercial Vehicle Accident Claim? 

Compensation in a commercial vehicle accident claim may include:

• Medical expenses: You may be able to recover the costs of emergency treatment, hospitalization, surgery, medication, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and other necessary medical care. Future medical expenses may also be considered when injuries require ongoing treatment.
• Lost wages: If your injuries stop you from working, you may be able to seek compensation for income lost during your recovery.
• Loss of earning capacity: Serious or permanent injuries may affect your ability to perform your current job or earn the same income in the future. Compensation may be available for this reduced earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering: A claim may include compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and the overall effect the accident has had on your quality of life.
• Disfigurement or disability: Permanent scarring, disfigurement, disability, or impairment may increase the damages available in a personal injury claim.
• Property damage: You may be able to recover costs that are associated with repairing or replacing your vehicle and other personal property damaged in the collision.
• Out-of-pocket expenses: Accident-related transportation, home modifications, medical equipment, in-home assistance, and other reasonable expenses may be recoverable.
• Wrongful death damages: When a commercial vehicle accident results in death, eligible surviving family members may be able to seek damages like funeral fees, lost financial support, and loss of companionship, depending on applicable state law.
• Punitive damages: In some cases involving particularly reckless, malicious, or egregious conduct, punitive damages may be available. These damages are not available in every case and depend on state law and the specific facts of the accident.

Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Vehicle Accidents

What Should I Do After a Commercial Vehicle Accident?

Seek medical attention, report the accident to the appropriate authorities, document the scene if you are able, collect contact and insurance information, and keep records of your medical treatment and expenses. It is also important to preserve evidence and avoid making statements to an insurance company that could be used against your claim.

How Do I Prove a Commercial Vehicle Accident Claim?

Evidence may include police reports, photographs and video, witness statements, medical records, vehicle data, driver logs, maintenance records, employment records, and other documentation related to the commercial vehicle and its operator. An attorney can help identify and preserve evidence that may otherwise become unavailable.

Can I Recover Compensation If I Was Partially at Fault?

In many states, you may still be able to recover a settlement when you share some responsibility for an accident, although your recovery may be decreased according to your percentage of fault. The specific rules depend on the state where the accident occurred.

What If My Injuries Require Long-Term Medical Care?

You could be able to seek compensation for reasonably anticipated future medical treatment and other long-term expenses associated with your injuries. These damages can be particularly important when an accident causes permanent disability or requires ongoing rehabilitation or assistance.

Should I Accept an Insurance Settlement After a Commercial Vehicle Accident?

You should understand the full extent of your injuries and losses before accepting a settlement. Once a claim is settled, you may be unable to seek additional settlement for the same injuries. Consulting an attorney before accepting an offer can help you understand whether the proposed settlement adequately addresses your losses.