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Damages That Can Be Claimed in Trucking Accident Cases

Legally Reviewed and Edited by: Terry Cochran

If you or someone you know has been involved in a truck accident involving semi-trucks or tractor-trailers, you understand how scary these accidents can be. Many truck accidents can result in severe injuries and damages or even wrongful death. If the trucking company’s or driver’s negligence caused the accident, victims can seek compensatory damages by filing a lawsuit.

If you are filing a claim, here is what you should know about the damages that you can claim in trucking accident cases and how Cochran, Kroll & Associates, P.C. can help you receive the compensation you deserve for your accident.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

The U.S. commercial trucking industry is expansive, with 895,670 heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers employed throughout the nation. And in Michigan, 65% of all freight tonnage is moved by trucks, which means there are a lot of heavy trucks out on the road.

When truck accidents occur, some of the most common reasons include distracted driving, improper cargo loading, driver fatigue or impairment, defects, failure, or improper equipment maintenance. Most crashes happen when trucks are braking, making wide-angle turns, or jackknifing.

Of the approximately 499,000 police-reported U.S. crashes involving large trucks in 2018, there were 4,415 (1%) fatal crashes and 107,000 (21%) injury crashes.

Whatever the cause, these accidents can result in pain and suffering and costly medical bills that may require the filing of personal injury claims and an injury attorney’s help to seek economic or non-economic damages.

Types of Damages That Can Be Claimed In a Trucking Accident

When you’re involved in a trucking accident, you may have vehicle damage and extensive injuries that result in medical expenses. While your insurance company may cover many of these costs, your pain and suffering deserve compensation.

In Michigan, if the truck driver or truck company was negligent in causing the accident, you can pursue both economic and non-economic damages..

Economic Damages

Economic damages are calculable and have a set dollar amount. These may include:

  • ER treatment
  • Medical bills
  • Prescriptions
  • Medical supplies
  • Lost wages
  • Vehicle repairs
  • Loss of consortium
  • Court costs

In truck accident cases involving death, economic damages may also include funeral expenses. For severe injuries, they may also include the lost future earnings and long-term care costs.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are more obscure and may be more difficult to assign a dollar value. These types of damages may involve emotional distress, pain, and suffering, physical disability or disfigurement, or loss of enjoyment in life. The State of Michigan doesn’t allow for punitive damages meant to punish the trucking company. However, if the defendant’s actions were egregious, you might be eligible for exemplary damages.

Compensatory Damages

The plaintiff can pursue compensatory damages in an injury accident, which include both economic and non-economic damages in a trucking accident.

Injury victims should contact a Michigan truck accident attorney before attempting to talk to the trucking company’s insurance company or accepting any type of settlement. Without the aid of a lawyer, you may face delays or denials, and the trucking company will probably try to settle for as little money as they can.

Why Work with Personal Injury Lawyers in trucking Accident Cases

In Michigan, accidents that involve semi-trucks or tractor-trailers are handled differently than typical auto accidents. These trucking accidents involve federal and state laws, and the insurance coverage on commercially owned vehicles may make the case even more complicated.

Because multiple parties are involved in these types of cases, including the person(s) in the passenger vehicles, the truck driver and trucking company, the truck manufacturer, and others, numerous insurance policies may be included. Along with catastrophic injuries, the entire process can be overwhelming.

At Cochran, Kroll & Associates P.C., we have extensive knowledge and experience in pursuing trucking accident cases and can help you achieve a positive outcome to an otherwise terrible accident. Our devoted team of attorneys looks at every aspect of the case, calling on expert witnesses and testimony as needed. Whether it’s negotiating with your insurance company or seeking additional damages for pain and suffering, we are qualified to help personal injury claims you with any level of your claim.

Trucking Accident Cases

Call Us Now

Cochran, Kroll & Associates, P.C., is a leading Michigan law firm for personal injury cases and has extensive experience in truck accidents. We can help ensure you are not out of pocket and that all lost wages and medical expenses are covered. To arrange a free consultation with us, call today at 866-MICH-LAW

Disclaimer : The information provided is general and not for legal advice. The blogs are not intended to provide legal counsel and no attorney-client relationship is created nor intended.

Elena is a writer and communications professional with a genuine concern for the environment. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in journalism with a specialization in environmental studies to complement her passion. In her spare time, Elena enjoys the great outdoors in her home state of Michigan.

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