San Antonio Truck Accident Settlements
If you were hurt in a truck accident, you may be overwhelmed and unsure of what comes next. Between medical bills, time off work, and the emotional weight of a serious crash, your life has been disrupted. You may be wondering how to recover and hold the right person or company responsible, which is where a truck accident attorney can help you.
Although San Antonio truck accident settlements can be complex, a successful case can help you recover the costs of your medical care, vehicle damage, lost wages, and other personal losses. Rather than trying to manage the legal system alone, working with a seasoned attorney may give you the direction and support you need. Felix Gonzalez can handle communication with the insurance companies, collect vital evidence, and work to protect your interests throughout the process.
Key Factors That Affect Truck Accident Settlements
Not every truck accident case is the same. The amount of compensation someone receives in a settlement depends on several factors, some of which are unique to commercial vehicle crashes. In San Antonio, many of these truck wrecks involve large 18-wheelers or delivery trucks, where the injuries and damages can be significantly more severe than those sustained in standard auto accidents.
The severity of an individual’s injuries, whether they missed work, and how long recovery may take are all critical factors in determining the value of their case. For example, if someone suffered a traumatic brain injury or permanent spinal damage, they may be entitled to greater compensation than someone with soft tissue injuries. Additionally, the amount of insurance coverage available—from both the trucking company and the driver—can directly impact what they may receive in a settlement.
How Liability Is Proven After a Truck Accident
To secure a truck accident settlement in San Antonio, liability must be established, but unlike typical car collisions, these cases often involve multiple parties. Although the truck driver may have made a critical error, the trucking company, maintenance crew, or even the manufacturer of a faulty part might also share blame.
A person injured in a truck crash can work with a lawyer to investigate the cause of the collision. For instance, was the driver fatigued from exceeding their legal hours, was the vehicle improperly loaded, or was the company ignoring federal safety regulations?
Evidence such as black box data, driver logs, inspection reports, and eyewitness statements can all help prove negligence. An attorney can gather these elements, build a strong argument, and negotiate a settlement that reflects the full extent of an individual’s damages.
What Can Be Included in a Settlement?
A settlement after a San Antonio truck wreck can include more than just medical bills. If someone was injured, they might be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses, both past and future
- Lost income or reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In some situations, a settlement may also include punitive damages, which are intended to punish particularly reckless behavior, such as driving under the influence or knowingly ignoring safety protocols. An individual’s attorney can help them understand the types of damages that may apply and advocate for a settlement that supports their long-term recovery.
What Happens if the Insurance Company Refuses To Settle?
Insurance companies are known for offering lowball settlements, especially in truck accident cases where their liability can be high. If a fair offer is not made, the injured person does not have to accept it. If necessary, a San Antonio truck accident lawyer can take their case to court and fight for the compensation they deserve.
Filing a lawsuit does not always mean going to trial. Often, the pressure of a legal claim leads to more reasonable settlement offers. Having a lawyer ready to litigate gives more leverage during negotiations.
Talk to a San Antonio Truck Wreck Attorney Today About Settlement Options
A crash involving a truck can turn your life upside down, but you do not have to face it alone. The legal team at Felix Gonzalez Law has experience with San Antonio truck accident settlements, so they can review your case while you concentrate on your recovery. To explore your options and discuss next steps, contact our office today.
