Settling an 18-wheeler accident case in Orlando, Florida, can take anywhere from several months to a few years, depending on the specifics of the case. These accidents are often far more complex than typical car crashes due to the severity of injuries, involvement of major trucking companies, and challenging questions of liability.
At Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process. If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident, understanding the settlement timeline can help you navigate the legal journey with clarity and confidence. Reach out today at (407) 801-3000 to speak with an Orlando 18-wheeler accident lawyer.
How Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law Can Help After an 18-Wheeler Accident
At Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law, our Orlando 18-wheeler accident attorneys are dedicated to helping victims fight for the compensation they deserve after an 18-wheeler accident. We have used over 100 years of combined legal experience to help victims in Orlando, Florida, recover tens of millions of dollars in compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident, our Orlando truck accident lawyers can handle all aspects of your case. This includes:
- Investigating the cause of your 18-wheeler accident in Orlando
- Identifying all potentially liable parties
- Gathering evidence of negligence
- Retaining expert witnesses
- Valuing your damages for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses
- Refuting allegations of comparative fault
- Negotiating 18-wheeler accident settlements for maximum compensation
- Filing truck accident lawsuits, if necessary
Schedule a free consultation today if you or a loved one has been in an accident involving an 18-wheeler.
Factors Influencing the Settlement Timeline
Several factors may influence how long it takes to settle an 18-wheeler accident case in Orlando. Each accident is unique, but common factors that may influence the settlement timeline include:
1. The Severity of Your Injuries
One of the most significant factors in the settlement process is the extent of your injuries. Truck accidents often cause catastrophic injuries, such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Severe burns and disfigurement
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment. It is recommended to wait until you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI) before settling a claim. MMI is the point at which you have recovered as much as possible, which allows you to calculate your future medical costs more accurately. Settling too soon could result in receiving compensation that does not cover all necessary treatments, rehabilitation, or long-term care.
2. The Complexity of Your Case
18-wheeler accidents are often more complicated than regular car accidents. This is because multiple parties could be liable. Potentially liable parties after a car accident include:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The truck manufacturer
- A third-party maintenance company
- A cargo loading company
Determining liability requires a thorough investigation, which can prolong the settlement process. You need time to pursue claims against all parties who may be liable for your accident to recover maximum compensation. Negotiations may take longer with different parties and insurance companies as they work through your claim.
3. The Process of Gathering Evidence
Evidence is crucial in proving fault and securing fair compensation. Collecting evidence can take time, especially if the trucking company or other parties delay providing crucial records. Evidence in an 18-wheeler accident case may include:
- Black box data: Commercial trucks have event data recorders that store information about speed, braking, and other driving behaviors before a crash.
- Driver logs: Federal regulations limit the hours a truck driver can work without rest. Reviewing driver logs can determine if fatigue played a role in the crash.
- Maintenance records: Trucking companies are required to maintain their vehicles. Maintenance records can be critical evidence if mechanical failure is a factor.
- Surveillance and dashcam footage: Video footage from traffic cameras or nearby businesses can provide clear evidence of the crash.
- Eyewitness testimony: Statements from people who saw the accident can help corroborate your version of events.
The time needed to gather this information can vary. Some parties may resist providing key records.
4. Negotiations
18-wheeler accident settlements are often achieved through negotiations. Insurers try to minimize payouts and may initially offer you a low settlement, which will require you to counter with evidence. The back-and-forth negotiation process can go multiple rounds for months or even years if the insurer disputes liability or undervalues your claim.
5. Litigation
If negotiations fail, your 18-wheeler accident case may need to go to court. Filing a lawsuit does not necessarily mean your case will go to trial, but litigation can significantly extend the timeline. The process includes:
- Filing the lawsuit: Once a lawsuit is filed, the discovery phase begins.
- Discovery: Both sides exchange evidence, take depositions, and consult with experts. This phase alone can take months to over a year.
- Mediation: Both parties may attempt to settle through mediation before trial.
- Trial: Your case may proceed to trial if mediation fails, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome.
Going to trial can add a year or more to the process. However, the threat of litigation sometimes pushes the insurance company to offer a fair settlement sooner.
What Damages May I Recover for an 18-Wheeler Accident?
Victims of 18-wheeler accidents may be entitled to compensation for both their economic and non-economic damages. This may include compensation for:
- Medical expenses: Compensation for ambulance fees, hospital bills, surgery costs, physical therapy, and future medical care.
- Lost wages: Compensation for income lost due to the inability to work.
- Loss of earning capacity: Compensation for injuries that prevent you from returning to your previous job or working at all.
- Property damage: Compensation to repair or replace a vehicle or other damaged property.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain and discomfort.
- Emotional distress: Compensation for anxiety, PTSD, and psychological trauma.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: Compensation for injuries that prevent the victim from engaging in hobbies or activities they once enjoyed.
An Orlando truck accident lawyer can help fight for all your damages to be included in an 18-wheeler accident settlement.
Injured in an 18-Wheeler Accident? Contact Our Orlando Truck Accident Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident in Orlando, Florida, our experienced Orlando truck accident lawyers can help. The team at Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law can help you understand the timeline for a potential settlement and set realistic expectations. Schedule your free consultation with an Orlando 18-wheeler accident lawyer today.