Although most people understand that a crash is possible when they drive, no one actually expects one to happen. Semi-truck collisions are even more unusual than crashes between two passenger vehicles. Most people don’t really consider the possibility of a catastrophic crash unless one affects them directly.
Those involved in crashes caused by semi-trucks or affected by a crash involving a family member often have pressing questions. The circumstances of every collision are unique, but there are certain questions that people tend to ask immediately after an incident involving a commercial truck.
The answers to the three frequently asked questions below can help people decide how to respond to a crash caused by a semi-truck.
1. Who is liable for the semi-truck crash?
Liability can be a complex matter in a commercial vehicle collision. Fault is the first key consideration. Proving that the commercial vehicle caused the crash is the first basic requirement when hoping to pursue compensation.
Frequently, such crashes occur because of something that the commercial driver did. However, commercial crashes can also occur because of maintenance issues with the vehicle or an improperly-loaded trailer.
The commercial transportation company that hired the driver, the client that loaded the trailer or even a parts manufacturer may have a degree of liability for a semi-truck crash.
2. How much can insurance cover?
Insurance coverage is usually the first line of defense when covering semi-truck crash expenses. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates that commercial vehicles have at least $750,000 in liability coverage.
Sometimes, the policies covering commercial vehicles are even larger than that. If the coverage available isn’t enough given the losses sustained, then people may want to look into the possibility of a lawsuit in addition to insurance negotiations.
3. What losses can people recover?
Determining whether insurance is enough on its own requires a rough estimate of the total losses sustained because of the crash. The costs that people can recoup depend in part on the nature of the compensation sought.
Insurance usually covers economic losses. People can negotiate for insurance coverage to reimburse them for property damage losses, medical expenses and also lost wages. In scenarios involving personal injury or wrongful death lawsuits, plaintiffs can also potentially seek non-economic losses, including pain and suffering or loss of consortium.
Those trying to adjust to life after a semi-truck crash may need help evaluating their situation. People often benefit from professional assistance while reviewing their circumstances, evaluating insurance coverage and estimating losses after a collision or similar incident.