Semi-truck involved accidents are possibly one of the most dangerous accidents on the road – they often lead to extremely severe injuries, sometimes even death. If you were involved in an accident with a semi-truck, you are probably dealing with severe injuries and substantial damage to your vehicle right now.
You are most likely reading this article because you are looking for the best truck accident attorney in Virginia to assist you with negotiations while you focus on your recovery.
One big question in your head is, “how long is the settlement process going to take?”
The answer to this question is tricky. Though there is no specific timeframe, it will generally take a lot longer than a typical Virginia auto accident settlement.
When you look at a normal two-car accident, settlement times can vary, but generally, they are fairly quick to settle depending on severity. Now throw in factors like a semi-truck and the settlement process becomes a lot different.
Why? Because in an accident with a commercial semi-truck, you will have to pursue multiple parties who will have teams of lawyers at their disposal. Do not try to pursue the settlement alone – especially if you suffered severe injuries in the accident (we highly recommend that you reach out to an experienced Virginia truck accident attorney to help you with your case).
I Was Hit by a Semi-Truck – Who Do You Pursue?
If you are hit by a semi-truck, there could be several people responsible for your injuries (besides the obvious driver). You have to keep in mind that there are many players in this negotiation and Virginia truck accident attorneys know exactly who to pursue in cases like this – that’s why it’s important that you reach out and seek guidance before engaging in any negotiations.
The involved parties you might pursue include:
- The driver
- The driver’s insurance company
- The driver’s employer
- The company that services and maintains the truck
- The company that owns the load being carried in the truck
*Important: You must name all parties in your lawsuit – if you miss on someone who is responsible, then it will be too late to include them in the settlement. *
There Are Many Parties Involved in Semi-Truck Accident Settlement Negotiations – How Long Will It Take?
As we mentioned, most semi-truck involved accidents usually cause severe injuries and damage. You could potentially be in the hospital for a long time – you may need surgery and physical therapy which could mean you’d be out of work for weeks or even months (or potentially even longer). Because you were out of work and receiving treatment for a long period of time, you will want to recover all owed compensation to cover the cost of your bills and any other money you lost.
This would include:
- Medical bills
You are entitled to all current and future medical bills. If you have to continue medical treatment for a long period of time, the defendant will be held responsible for your bills.
- Lost wages
If you are out of work for more than a week, the defendant is required to compensate you for any wages you missed out on – your attorney will submit any tax records and timesheets to prove the amount lost.
- Property damage
Chances are that your car will be totaled – you are entitled to the cost to replace your vehicle. Fortunately, this process is typically handled quickly and does not require the help of a lawyer.
You’ll most likely be entitled to pain and suffering compensation (money you will receive to cover all mental and emotional suffering) if your injuries are severe (i.e injuries that require injections or surgery, broken bones that require a cast, or a brain injury that does not go away).
After taking a look at the different factors, it should be no secret that your case will take a long time. You and your attorney will be negotiating with multiple parties and teams of lawyers to rightfully receive compensation – this can lead to many disagreements with the defendants on what is considered fair.
The best answer we can give you is your semi-truck accident settlement could take months or even years to settle. Your attorney will do everything they can to settle your case as quickly as possible but remember not to jump at the first settlement the defendant offers – you want to make sure you are accurately compensated for all damages.
Takeaway
An accident with a semi-truck is a traumatic experience. If you were involved in a severe accident with a semi-truck, we sincerely hope you have a speedy recovery. Remember, the most important thing you can do is focus on your recovery. Let your truck accident attorney handle the negotiations and the stress of dealing with multiple parties – be patient and make sure you are correctly compensated for your injuries and property damage.
How BenGlassLaw Can Help
The accident lawyers at BenGlassLaw help injured people get fair results for their case and get back to living their lives. Our main office is located in Fairfax, Virginia, but we can meet with clients virtually throughout the state. Representation in jurisdictions where we are not already licensed is performed in conjunction with local counsel–at no additional legal fees to the client–and with permission of the court.
Remember Our Job is to Help You Make a Great Decision About Your Case. Contact BenGlassLaw at 703-584-7277 For a Free and Confidential Conversation About Your Case.
