Maison Law advocates for victims seeking a fair settlement for their big rig accident in California. The amount of money you should ask for after a big rig will be dependent on the severity of your injuries and the insurance policy of the liable party. The first step in reaching a successful settlement will be to outline your damages and what they’re worth in a demand letter to the liable party’s insurance company.
It is important to note that reaching a successful settlement requires a factual and legal understanding of your case by attorneys with extensive experience in big rig accident law. To better understand the value of your case, contact Maison Law today for a free consultation and case evaluation.
What is a Demand Letter?
A demand letter describes what happened and states various details about your case, concluding with a certain amount of money you would be willing to settle your big rig accident claim for. A demand letter is similar to an opening argument in a court case, which typically covers the following:
- When and how the accident or incident happened
- Why the liable party is responsible for the incident
- The extent of your injuries
- The damages you have suffered, including future damages you will likely incur
Accident victims should take demand letters seriously as it sets the tone for settlement negotiations. A well-written demand letter lets the insurance adjuster know you are serious about pursuing fair compensation and presents enough solid facts to dissuade the insurance company from taking the claim to court.
Maximize Your Big Rig Accident Settlement in California
After enduring a traumatic big rig accident in California, you may wonder how you can increase your settlement amount. This is perfectly normal as most accident victims experience major medical costs, vehicle repairs, and serious changes in their lifestyle. Big rig accidents are horrific events, which is why accident victims are entitled to the maximum amount of compensation for all the damages they’ve been forced to endure.
While an experienced big rig accident attorney will handle the legalities of your case, you can help maximize your settlement after an accident by:
- Seeking medical treatment: Nothing is more important than your health. After an accident, you should always get seen by a doctor, even if you feel fine. Not seeing a doctor will only hurt your chances at receiving fair compensation.
- Reporting the accident: After a big rig accident, it is important to get a police report. Police reports typically cover who was involved in the accident and who was at fault. It’s okay if you’re unable to get it yourself. A lawyer can subpoena that information if necessary once a lawsuit is filed with the courts.
- Gathering evidence: take your own photos of the scene and get witness statements, as well as their information. Accidents can get cleaned up quickly and cars can get moved, so it is important to capture the damage of all the vehicles involved.
- Following up on your injuries with a doctor: Any injuries you’ve sustained from your accident will become a part of your case and you will need a doctor to corroborate your injuries.
- Contact Maison Law: protect your legal right to compensation. Most accident victims find themselves overwhelmed after a big rig accident and fail to realize the enormous impact a serious injury can have on their lives. Our experienced attorneys can help you understand your options and get you the compensation you need
What is the Typical Settlement for a Big Rig Accident in California?
No two accidents are the same, so there is a wide range of settlement amounts for big rig accident cases. However, there are common factors for every case, which can indicate the amount of compensation you could receive. These factors include:
- Special Damages: medical bills, ongoing treatment, costs that accumulate when you’re unable to work, like rent or mortgage payments
- General Damages: these are non-economic hardships like pain and suffering, anxiety, depression, mental trauma
- Wrongful Death Damages: these damages may be sought by a spouse or close relative for funeral arrangements, burial expenses, and medical treatment before a loved one’s death
- Punitive Damages: these damages are rare, but if the driver engaged in reckless driving with the intention of hurting you, then you could sue for punitive damages
In most cases, the more severe your injuries and the longer they impact your life, the greater your compensation will be. A reputable personal injury lawyer can help you understand the value of your case and will protect your right to fair compensation.
FAQs
Q: Do big rig drivers have to carry insurance for personal injuries?
A: Yes, federal regulations in California require big rig drivers and their companies to carry liability insurance.
Q: How long do I have to file a lawsuit for a big rig accident?
A: Two years. The statute of limitations in California allows victims to file a personal injury claim within two years of the date of the accident.
Q: What if I can’t afford a lawyer?
A: At Maison Law, there is no upfront fee for our services. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.
Contact a Big Rig Accident Lawyer in California
If you or a loved one has been involved in a big rig accident in California, Maison Law is here to get you the compensation you need. Our team of experienced accident attorneys understands how to exercise every avenue of the law to aggressively pursue the liable party for the full extent of your medical damages. Contact Maison Law today for a free consultation and case evaluation. There are no hidden fees and you will not be charged a cent until we’ve won your case.
