What is the average settlement for a 18 wheeler accident in Colorado?
Accidents involving 18-wheelers can have devastating consequences due to the sheer size and weight of these massive vehicles. When such accidents occur, the victims often suffer catastrophic injuries, mounting medical bills, loss of income, and pain and suffering. In Colorado, the average settlement for a truck accident in Colorado can range from $250,000 to $5 million or more, but the figures may vary depending on the severity of injuries and other factors. To maximize your 18-wheeler accident claim in Colorado, you should have experienced truck accident attorneys on your side.
Factors Determining Truck Accident Settlement Amounts in Colorado
Severity of Injuries
Medical Expenses: The more severe the injuries, the higher the medical costs, including emergency care, surgeries, ongoing treatment, and rehabilitation. These costs play a significant role in determining the settlement amount.
Long-Term Effects: Injuries that result in long-term or permanent disabilities significantly increase the settlement value. Compensation must account for future medical care and lost earning capacity.
Liability and Fault
Clear Liability: If the truck driver or trucking company is clearly at fault, the settlement amount is likely to be higher. Evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and expert testimony can establish liability.
Comparative Negligence: The state follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning the settlement for a semi-truck accident in Colorado can be reduced if you are found partially at fault.
Actual Damages Suffered
Economic Damages: These include tangible losses that you may incur, such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Accurate documentation of these expenses is vital for maximizing the settlement.
Non-Economic Damages: These cover intangible losses such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. These damages are subjective but significantly impact the settlement amount.
Insurance Policies and Limits
Trucking Company Insurance: 18-wheeler accidents typically involve large commercial insurance policies with higher coverage limits than regular car accidents. This can lead to higher settlements.
Victim’s Insurance: In some cases, your insurance policy might come into play, especially if the at-fault party’s insurance is insufficient to cover all damages.
Quality of Legal Representation
Experienced Attorneys: Hiring a skilled personal injury attorney can significantly impact the settlement amount. Law firms experienced in 18-wheeler accidents know how to negotiate with insurance companies to help you recover maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Average Settlement for a Truck Accident in Colorado
Given the various factors at play, it is challenging to pinpoint an exact average settlement for 18-wheeler accidents. These are a few illustrative scenarios for truck accident compensation in Colorado:
Minor Injuries: In cases where injuries are minor, such as soft tissue damage or minor fractures, settlements in a truck accident injury case might range from $50,000 to $200,000.
Moderate Injuries: For moderate injuries that require surgeries and extended recovery periods, such as broken bones, burn injuries or internal organ damage, settlements can range from $250,000 to $800,000 or more.
Severe Injuries: In cases involving severe injuries like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, or permanent disabilities, settlements or verdicts for the injured victim often exceed $500,000 and can reach several million dollars.
Steps to Take After Your 18-Wheeler Accident in Colorado
Ensure Safety and Obtain Medical Attention
If possible and safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further accidents. Assess yourself and others involved for injuries. It is important to obtain medical attention immediately even if injuries seem minor.
Obtain Legal Advice
Contact an experienced Colorado truck accident attorney as soon as possible. A lawyer can guide you through the legal process, help gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. The sooner you involve an attorney, the greater the likelihood of obtaining a fair settlement. They can ensure that all necessary steps are taken to protect your rights.
Report the Accident
It is essential to have a police report documenting the accident. Provide accurate information to the responding officers but avoid admitting fault. Ensure the police file an official accident report since this document can be invaluable in your settlement negotiations. Your lawyer will obtain a copy of the police report from the law enforcement officials.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
Document the scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Obtain contact details of any witnesses to the accident. Their statements can be essential to proving your claim. Exchange insurance and contact information with the truck driver and any other involved parties.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with all necessary details but avoid giving a recorded statement until you consult with an attorney.
How a Skilled 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer in Colorado can Increase Your Settlement Amount
Case Precedents: Experienced attorneys are familiar with case precedents that can help you obtain a favorable outcome.
Access to Resources: Your law firm will have access to resources such as accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and forensic analysts who can provide critical insights and strengthen your case.
Evaluating Damages: Attorneys can accurately evaluate the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering. They can also project future losses.
Effective Negotiation Skills: Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. Skilled attorneys are adept at negotiating with insurance adjusters to recover a fair settlement.
Preparing for Trial: Lawyers can develop a strong litigation strategy and represent your interests effectively in front of a judge and jury.
Meeting Deadlines: They are aware of critical deadlines, such as the statute of limitations, and can help ensure that your truck crash claim is filed within the required timeframe to avoid losing your right to compensation.
Get a Top-rated Colorado Truck Accident Attorney on Your Side
If you have been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Colorado, your path to justice and fair compensation begins with a call to Zobel Legal Group. Our legal team, led by the experienced and dedicated Colorado truck accident lawyer Wade Zobel, will devise a strategic plan to hold the negligent parties accountable and vigorously advocate for your rights to ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to. To schedule your free consultation, call us at 720-434-6674 or fill out this online contact form.