Truck accidents often result in serious injuries, even if they happen at a low speed.
As a result, many victims wonder, what is the average semi-truck accident settlement in California? Is there a semi-truck accident settlement calculator you can use? For semi-truck accidents in California, the typical settlement falls between $70,000 and $75,000, considering moderate severity cases. This estimate excludes non-economic damages and pain & suffering.
There isn’t a set minimum settlement for semi truck accidents. Settlement amounts vary based on factors like the extent of injuries, who is at fault, and the insurance policies involved.
The Truth About Average Semi Truck Accident Settlements
While you may come across articles that claim to know the average settlement for a semi-truck accident, these articles are incredibly misleading.
One of the reasons that average settlements posted online aren’t accurate is that they don’t include confidential case results.
Since there are so many cases that don’t publicly publish their final settlement amount, “averages” simply don’t present a full or accurate picture.
In addition, there are certain reasons why comparing your case to some “average” isn’t a good idea.
An average ignores the unique aspects of every commercial truck accident case, whether it’s the extent of injuries or the cause of the crash.
Both of these factors and more have a tremendous impact on the potential value of a case.
As a result, consulting an average amount can warp proper expectations. Any average may be a gross overestimation if your case only involves minor damages.
Or, an average can be a severe underestimation if your semi truck accident involves life-altering injuries. Call our truck accident lawyers today to begin building your case.
Recent Truck Accident Settlement
The Case: Our client was involved in a catastrophic, life altering, collision with an 18-wheeler. We discovered that the driver of the 18-wheeler had been in a bar fight recently and suffered damage to his eye, which caused him to lose depth perception. The company operating the 18-wheeler originally denied liability as well as attempted arguments based on immigration status, but we eventually came to a settlement of $3.4 million for the driver and his family.
Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that testimonials or reviews do not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter, as the facts and circumstances of each case differ.
Do Semi-Truck Accident Settlement Calculators Give a More Accurate Answer?
No, an online semi-truck accident settlement calculator isn’t much better than a purported average. Calculators primarily focus on economic damages, which is one of their main limitations.
Essentially, these are the direct financial losses associated with the accident. However, there are other damages that aren’t nearly as easy to calculate.
In fact, these non-economic damages sometimes make up the bulk of a truck accident settlement. For this reason, it’s best to consult with a lawyer for a truck accident in California to learn the most accurate value of your case. A truck accident lawyer can accurately estimate your total economic and non-economic damages for an accurate figure, often without you having to pay a dime.
Factors that Affect Settlements From Semi-Truck Wrecks
When calculating your semi truck settlement, there are a few factors that have a major influence on the settlements from semi truck wrecks—the extent of your damages and your share (if any) of liability.
An average settlement for a truck accident doesn’t include these factors since they vary widely from case to case.
Here’s an overview of each and how they might apply to a truck accident.
Extent of Damages
First and foremost, the valuation of your case depends on the extent of your damages. All compensatory damages fall into one of two categories: economic or non-economic.
Each damage type plays an essential part in your claim and may affect your settlement.
As mentioned earlier, economic damages are the backbone of your case and involve financial losses. This includes things like:
- Medical expenses,
- Lost wages,
- Reduced earning capacity,
- Vehicle damage, and
- Future treatment costs.
While it’s possible to estimate some of these damages using a calculator, it’s much more difficult to determine future costs without the assistance of an attorney.
On the other hand, non-economic damages are almost always calculated differently between cases.
This is because non-economic damages refer to intangible losses, such as:
- Pain and suffering,
- Mental anguish,
- Disability,
- Disfigurement,
- Loss of quality of life, and
- Loss of consortium.
Some attorneys may determine these damages by multiplying the total economic damages by a certain number that’s called a multiplier.
Others may calculate a per-day cost during the victim’s recovery. Ultimately, it depends on the specifics of the case.
Comparative Negligence
Another factor that affects the average 18 wheeler accident settlement is the percentage of shared fault attributed to the victim.
The state of California follows a pure comparative negligence doctrine, which means that victims may pursue compensation even if they are 99% at fault.
However, the court reduces their award by the percentage of fault.
For example, if you have $100,000 in total damages but the court finds you 15% at fault, you may only receive $85,000 in compensation.
Don’t Trust a Semi-Truck Accident Settlement Calculator—Call Us Today
If a negligent truck driver causes you injury, you deserve to seek full recovery for your losses. Don’t put your trust in a semi-truck accident settlement calculator.
At Weinberg Law Offices, our truck accident attorneys have the skill necessary to take on large insurance companies and fight for your well-being.
With constant communication and personalized attention, we always pursue what’s best for our clients.
To schedule a free, no-obligation consultation, please send us a message or call us at (818) 697-1079.
Disclaimer: This content should not be construed as legal advice.
As a personal injury attorney, my mantra is that there is no such thing as a “small case”. I will give 100% matter how big or small a case may be. I am fluent in English, Hebrew, and Spanish, languages which I use regularly in my practice.
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