LawyersBay
If you suffered injuries or property damage in a St. Louis truck accident, you can seek compensation for your suffering through a settlement or lawsuit. A settlement is an out-of-court agreement between the parties involved, while a lawsuit is a legal action against the other party or parties.
Understanding how St. Louis truck accident lawsuits and settlements work can help you make the right decisions on recovering fair and full compensation for your suffering.
Read More: Truck Accident Attorney California: How To Choose the Right One
Contents
Truck Accident Settlement
As the victim of a truck accident, you can recover compensation from a lawsuit or settlement; however, the settlement process is simpler and faster. In most cases, settlements are also less expensive in terms of legal fees. With all these advantages, most auto accident cases are resolved through settlement. However, keep in mind that commercial truck accidents are more complicated than typical car accidents. There could be multiple parties involved, and even a settlement could take months or years to finalize.
A truck accident settlement can be attained at any stage before the case moves to a trial. If you accept the settlement, you forgo your right to sue. Therefore, it is important to only accept a settlement if you are getting a reasonable offer. Consult with a truck accident attorney before accepting an offer.
A reasonable settlement provides fair compensation to the victim for their damages, such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. If the victim can prove they suffered emotional trauma as a result of the truck accident, they can also be compensated for their pain and suffering.
Truck Accident Lawsuit
A truck accident lawsuit is initiated by filing a complaint in court and seeking a resolution to the dispute. The case goes through several legal processes, including motions and discovery phases.
In the pretrial phase, both parties have the opportunity to file motions, which are formal requests to the court, such as a request to deem evidence as inadmissible or dismiss charges. If no agreement can be reached through a truck accident settlement, then the case goes to trial.
The outcome of the lawsuit is determined by a jury or judge. Different outcomes are possible, including dismissal of the case, compensation awarded to one of the parties, or both parties settling before the trial. Both parties have the right to appeal the verdict.
Read More: 10 Class Action Lawsuits that Redefined Legal Precedents
Consult with an Experienced St. Louis Truck Accident Lawyer
A skilled St.Louis, Missouri personal injury lawyer can help you determine whether you should accept a settlement or file a lawsuit. While settling a case offers some advantages, if you are not getting a reasonable offer, you have the right to take the case to court. The lawyer can help establish liability, which can be tricky in truck accidents. The liability could be with multiple parties, including the truck owner, maintenance provider, cargo loading company, truck driver, or other party. The lawyer can also negotiate with the insurance company, who will try to minimize their financial payout for the damages.