18-wheeler trucks play a critical role in our society. These vehicles transport a variety of goods and resources around the country every day. However, despite their usefulness, these trucks do have their downside. Because of their massive size and weight, accidents involving 18-wheelers often result in catastrophic injuries.
If you were injured in an accident caused by an 18-wheeler, you will likely need to secure compensation from the liable party in order to cover the costs you face as a result of your damages. At the Morelli Law Firm, we have helped countless accident victims get the money they need after a collision with an 18-wheeler.
Proving Fault Following an 18-Wheeler Truck Accident
Before you can begin the process of getting the money you need after a collision, you must first establish who is liable for your damages. Unfortunately, this is often more easily said than done. Establishing fault can be incredibly challenging. However, an experienced 18-wheeler accident attorney in North Bergen, NJ, can help simplify things.
When you hire a lawyer, their first course of action will be to investigate your accident, with a focus on proving who was to blame for the crash.
Submit Your Lawsuit on Time to Protect Your Right to Recover Compensation
After an 18-wheeler accident, it is critical that you take steps to protect your right to recover compensation from the liable party. One of the most important things to consider when filing a lawsuit is that you need to make sure you submit the required paperwork before the statute of limitations expires. Otherwise, you could lose your right to pursue compensation.
The general time limit for filing in New Jersey is two years. However, exceptions may apply that can alter the amount of time you have to submit your claim. In certain situations, this will allow you to file a lawsuit long after the statute of limitations has expired. In other instances, however, you could discover that you actually have far less time to take action.
The best way to ensure you meet all deadlines is by hiring an experienced attorney shortly after your accident. Your 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer will be able to identify if any specifics of your case alter the amount of time you have to file your claim.
Insurance Providers Can Not Be Trusted
Insurance companies work diligently to make people believe they are available and eager to help in any way they can. However, these companies are not nearly as friendly as they would have you believe. Their main concern is not with the welfare of claimants but rather with the financial status of their company.
Insurers will employ a variety of tactics in an attempt to deny or devalue a claim. Unfortunately, many people believe the narrative that these companies create. Accident victims who put their faith in an insurance company often find themselves manipulated into situations where recovering the money they need for their damages becomes impossible.
The best way to protect yourself against the tricks employed by insurance adjusters is by hiring an experienced 18-wheeler accident attorney. When you hire a lawyer, the insurance company will no longer be able to contact you directly. By forcing the insurer to deal with your attorney, you will neutralize their ability to manipulate you out of the money you deserve.
Damages You May Be Eligible to Recover in an 18-Wheeler Truck Accident in North Bergen
After getting injured in a car accident with an 18-wheeler in North Bergen, NJ, you will likely be able to pursue a wide variety of damages from the liable party. The specific damages you can recover vary from case to case. All compensatory damages you can pursue are divided between economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
Economic damages account for any losses you suffer that impact your financial situation. You can seek economic damages to help with expenses you had to spend because of your accident, as well as income you were unable to earn. In addition to the losses you currently face, you can receive economic damages to help with projected future losses as well.
Economic damages commonly awarded following an 18-wheeler truck accident include:
- Lost wages
- Lessened earning ability
- Medical expenses
- Future medical bills
- Property damage
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages encompass all other losses resulting from your crash. These damages are typically far more personal than economic damages and are often irreplaceable and irreversible. Because these damages are so severe, the compensation awarded for these losses is typically significant.
Non-economic damages commonly awarded following an 18-wheeler truck accident include:
- Diminished quality of life
- Permanent disability
- Mental anguish
- Loss of consortium
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
In order to get an accurate estimate of the amount of compensation you will likely be able to recover after a crash, you must first identify all the damages you are eligible to claim. An experienced lawyer can help you determine the specific damages that apply to your case. Beyond the damages listed above, you may also be able to claim punitive damages.
Punitive damages are reserved for cases involving criminal negligence or the willful intent to cause harm. These damages are meant to punish the liable party for their actions.
Speak With an 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer in North Bergen Today
After an accident, it is critical that you hire legal counsel with a proven track record in cases similar to yours. At the Morelli Law Firm, our team of 18-wheeler accident lawyers in North Bergen, NJ, has been helping victims recover the money they need after a collision for years.
Reach out to us today by giving us a call or using our online contact form to schedule a free case evaluation.
