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When a large commercial vehicle causes a collision, the consequences can be devastating. These accidents often result in significant injuries, financial hardship, and emotional distress. Knowing what compensation may be available is important for individuals pursuing claims for damages.
Economic damages refer to the financial losses an individual incurs as a direct result of a truck accident. These include medical expenses, which may involve emergency treatment, surgeries, hospitalization, physical therapy, and ongoing care. Individuals may also pursue compensation for future medical costs if their condition requires long-term treatment or permanent care.
Lost income is another category of economic loss. If a person cannot return to work temporarily or permanently, they may be eligible to collect compensation for the wages they would have earned. This also applies to diminished earning capacity, which is when someone cannot return to their previous job or work at the same level due to their injuries.
Property damage is also considered an economic loss. Repair or replacement of a vehicle, along with the cost of rental cars and other related expenses, can be included in a claim.
Non-economic damages are less tangible but still significant. These refer to the emotional and psychological impact of a truck accident. Pain and suffering damages are one of the most commonly pursued forms of non-economic loss, which includes physical pain, discomfort, and the long-term effects of injuries.
Many individuals experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress after serious accidents. If the incident leads to a permanent disability or disfigurement, those factors can also influence the value of non-economic compensation.
There is no set formula for calculating non-economic damages. Courts may consider the severity of injuries, the duration of recovery, the effect on daily life, and medical testimony. These damages are highly case-specific and may differ based on the jurisdiction.
Punitive damages are not intended to compensate for a loss but to punish particularly reckless or harmful behavior. These damages may be awarded in cases where the truck driver or trucking company engaged in conduct considered grossly negligent or willfully dangerous. This could include driving under the influence, falsifying driving logs, or knowingly operating unsafe vehicles.
Punitive damages are awarded less frequently and often require a higher burden of proof. They are typically considered when standard compensatory damages are not viewed as sufficient to address the severity of the misconduct involved.
Multiple parties can be held financially responsible for truck accident-related damages:
Determining responsibility requires a detailed investigation of the crash, including the analysis of driver logs, inspection records, and accident reports.
Our Savannah truck accident lawyers are ready to review your situation and discuss the forms of compensation that may be available. For a free consultation, call our Macon, Georgia office at 478-254-2007 or complete our online form. Childers & McCain, LLC serves clients in Savannah, Albany, Atlanta, Bibb County, Chatham County, Columbus, Crawford County, Oglethorpe, and Peach County.
Facing the aftermath of a serious accident can be overwhelming. Before you speak with the insurance companies, make sure you schedule a free consultation with the Macon personal injury lawyers at Childers & McCain. We can protect your rights while anticipating the insurance company’s tactics to make sure you get the full compensation you deserve. You don’t have to navigate this tough road alone – let our team of professionals help you move forward.
