Jaime: Hi Jason, why does it seem like people who are in accidents with an 18-wheeler get so much more money than people in an accident with another car?
Jason: Thanks for your question, Jaime. While each case is different, you are right in your observation that there tend to be higher settlements with trucking accidents.
Jaime: Yes, and it doesn’t seem fair.
Jason: Well, the sad truth is that these cases often have high claims because they result in life-changing injuries or death. It’s more about how hard of a hit you take than what type of vehicle it is.
Jaime: Oh, I see. So because 18-wheelers are bigger they can cause more damage?
Jason: Yes, and in many cases they do. Sadly, many victims of these kinds of accidents will never lead normal lives again, and that’s if they survive.
Jaime: Oh that’s terrible.
Jason: The company that owns the truck also comes under scrutiny in these kinds of accidents, which can impact the amount of the settlement.
Jaime: Why is that?
Jason: Because the company could be at fault. For example, if the accident was caused by a mechanical failure, it’s the fault of the company for not maintaining its fleet.
Jaime: Oh, I see. But what if the driver was texting or fell asleep or something? Wouldn’t that be his fault and not the company’s?
Jason: Not necessarily. If the trucker wasn’t properly trained or if he was driving too many hours because of pressure to make a delivery, that’s on the company too.
Jaime: But it seems like it would be pretty hard to go up against a big company.
Jason: Many companies retain insurance firms with big resources to protect them from lawsuits. They fight hard to pay as little as necessary regardless of how it impacts the victims.
Jaime: That’s really sad, Jason.
Jason: Yes, and that’s why it is important to work with a lawyer who has the experience to go up against these companies. I fight hard for my clients to get them the compensation that they deserve.
Jaime: I saw on your website that you recently got someone over a million-dollar settlement for an 18-wheeler accident.
Jason: Yes, I did. I’ve had a number of clients who have received settlements of over a million dollars.
Jaime: Well I know who I’m coming to if ever I get in an accident. Thank you, Jason.
DeSouza Law firm is a leading personal injury firm representing accident victims throughout Texas.
If you’ve been injured by a car, truck, 18-wheeler, company vehicle, or in the oilfield, call DeSouza injury Lawyers today at 361-799-2222 or visit the firm online at https://jfdlawfirm.com/.