Seattle Truck Accident Lawyers
Washington truck accidents often result in devastating injuries or fatalities. The sheer size difference between a large truck and a passenger vehicle makes it almost impossible for the occupants of a passenger vehicle to escape unscathed. Injured victims of these types of crashes are often left wondering how they will pay for their medical expenses and cope with loss of wages when they are unable to work and recovering from their serious injuries. That is why victims of truck accidents in Washington have it in their best interests to seek the counsel of a skilled Seattle truck accident attorney. Compensation may be available for the significant losses suffered in the crash.
Washington Truck Accident Statistics
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), 1,344 large trucks were involved in non-fatal Washington truck crashes in 2010. During this time, 160 injuries were suffered in truck accidents in Washington. Additionally, 1,215 large trucks were involved in tow-away accidents.
Common Injuries Suffered in Washington Truck Accidents
There are many potential injuries that car drivers and passengers can suffer in Washington truck accidents. Victims of minor truck accidents may suffer from neck and back injuries or whiplash. Victims of side or rear underride truck accidents often suffer traumatic brain and head injuries that could result in permanent disabilities. Truck accident victims commonly sustain catastrophic injuries related to multiple bone fractures. Others may suffer devastating spinal cord injuries that result in paralysis, quadriplegia, paraplegia, or chronic pain.
Liability Issues
There are a number of potentially liable parties for a Washington truck accident. For example, a truck driver can be held accountable for an accident caused by driver negligence or reckless driving. In some cases, a trucking company can be held accountable for the actions of their employees. Truck owners and shipping companies can be held responsible for the accidents caused by a failure to properly maintain the vehicle. Even companies that load trailers and repair trucks can be held liable for accidents resulting from their negligence.
Costs Related to Serious Injury Truck Accidents
When filing a civil lawsuit against a truck driver or a truck company, it is crucial to list or itemize all damages incurred. Accepting an inadequate settlement will make it impossible to pursue further compensation for the losses sustained. Injured victims of truck accidents in Washington can seek compensation for all damages including:
- Past, current, and future medical bills related to the accident
- Medications and medical devices
- Past and future suffering
- Therapy fees
- Lost wages
- Disability
There are many types of losses, both financial and non-financial, that may be given a monetary value during a civil lawsuit. Insurance companies often deny claims or offer an inadequate settlement just so that they can settle the claim and be done with it. An experienced truck accident attorney will make sure that fair compensation is offered to the victim and the victim's family.
The Seattle personal injury lawyers in Seattle at Hardwick & Pendergast have years of experience handling Washington truck accidents. We know how to determine liability and how to get our clients the compensation they need and rightfully deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a Washington truck accident, please contact our law offices today for a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation.
Truck Accident Recoveries
- $390,000 recovery for truck accident in Skykomish.
