After a truck accident, you may be asking yourself how much you might be able to sue. It is important to understand that there is no one-size-fits-all amount as every case is different.
To determine how much you can sue for, you should speak to a truck accident attorney first. An attorney can assess your case and decide how much in damages you can collect.
While you are waiting for your consultation, you can research these seven factors used to determine how much your case is worth:
1. Medical Bills – One of the most common damages is medical related. Courts will consider all medical costs you have encountered or will encounter in the future because of your accident. This can include emergency room fees, ambulance, physical therapy, and even psychiatric counseling.
2. Property Damage – Damage to your property or vehicle can also be included in the truck accident lawsuit. You will need photographic evidence of the damage so that you can prove to the courts the item was damaged in the truck-related incident.
3. Lost Wages – In some cases you may be able to request reimbursement for work missed as well as any future wages you will lose. Loss of earning capacity determines how much you would have earned in the future had you not been injured.
4. Pain and Suffering – Pain and suffering is not always accepted by the courts. You must prove that you experienced pain (emotional or physical) and you will continue to suffer after the injury to qualify.
5. Distress – In truck accident cases, you may be able to claim distress as long as you can prove there was a long duration, bodily harm, or another underlying cause from the accident that led to your distress.
6. Punitive Damages – Punitive damages can be sought if you can prove that the truck driver intentionally or maliciously caused the accident.
7. Comparative Negligence – Even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still collect damages. This is referred to as comparative negligence. You can only collect for the amount of damage for which you were not found liable; therefore, part of your injuries occurred because you did not wear a seat-belt. As a result, you may not be able to collect for the injuries that were a result of that.
Speak with a Truck Accident Attorney to Find Out How Much You Can Sue For
To find out how much your case is worth, meet with West Palm Beach truck accident attorney from Fetterman & Associates, PA. We offer free consultations and can help you determine how much to sue for as well as seek additional compensation for your attorney’s fees.