Chicago’s roads are filled with trucks transporting goods across the state and other areas throughout the country. Therefore, collisions involving tractor-trailers are not uncommon occurrences. Unfortunately, these crashes frequently cause severe injuries and fatalities. However, victims of these crashes can file civil claims to obtain compensation for the harm they sustained. This restitution can help injured people get back on their feet and support their families.
Our skilled truck accident attorneys are here to help guide you through the claims process to ensure you receive the maximum restitution possible. Among these payments include economic and non-economic damages. To learn more about recoverable damages after truck accidents in Chicago, contact an experienced legal team member today.
Economic damages include any monetary losses that insurance companies and courts can measure using bills and receipts. These damages reimburse plaintiffs for medical bills, rehabilitative costs, lost wages, and anything that a judge or jury can put a specific dollar amount on. Monetary losses are calculated by simply adding accident-related expenses together.
On the other hand, non-economic damages consist of pain and suffering, reduced quality of life, and any losses that do not have a set value. Often, attorneys in Chicago will reference past jury awards and previous tractor-trailer crash cases to calculate a settlement demand for non-economic damages.
To demand punitive damages, plaintiffs and their legal representatives must file a motion to amend a complaint. If the judge approves adding punitive damages to the complaint, a jury can award an amount that punishes the individual or company responsible for a truck crash.
For example, if a tractor-trailer company in Chicago employs a trucker who repeatedly gets charged with DUIs and the driver hits and injures another motorist, the hurt individual could demand punitive damages. In this case, the punitive damages demand would be against the trucking company that should have fired their negligent employee before the incident occurred.
Legal representatives can help plaintiffs in several ways by ensuring they get the proper medical attention they need after a tractor-trailer crash. Likewise, attorneys can help plaintiffs seek the recourses needed to assist them. For example, if an injured person needs to see a surgeon after a truck accident, a knowledgeable lawyer in Chicago can reach out to a recommended provider and set up a meeting for their client.
Additionally, legal counsel could work to develop a strong case on a plaintiff’s behalf by gathering relevant evidence to prove fault for a crash and properly documenting a person’s injuries to ensure they receive the maximum amount of damages.
Being the victim of a semi-collision can affect all aspects of your life, including your health, well-being, and employment. Fortunately, legal options may be available to you to help you regain your financial stability.
If you were hurt in a truck collision, get in touch with an attorney today. Our lawyers will explain recoverable damages after truck accidents in Chicago and help you build a case to prove your losses. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a dedicated attorney and get started on your claim for damages.