Trucking accidents often result in severe injuries and significant damages due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. Victims of such accidents can pursue various types of damages to compensate for their losses. These damages can be broadly categorized into economic, non-economic, and punitive damages.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are quantifiable financial losses incurred as a result of the accident. These include:
Medical Expenses
Victims can claim compensation for all medical costs related to the accident, including hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, and any necessary future medical treatments. In severe cases, long-term care or rehabilitation may also be covered.
Lost Wages
If the injury prevents the victim from working, they can claim compensation for the income lost during the recovery period. This includes both past and future lost wages. For those with permanent disabilities that impact their ability to work, the loss of future earning capacity can be a significant component of the claim.
Property Damage
Trucking accidents often result in substantial damage to the victim’s vehicle. Compensation for property damage covers the cost of repairing or replacing the damaged vehicle and any other personal property that was affected by the accident.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are more subjective and compensate victims for non-financial losses. These include:
Pain and Suffering
This covers the physical pain and emotional distress endured by the victim due to the accident. The amount awarded for pain and suffering can vary widely depending on the severity of the injuries and their impact on the victim’s quality of life.
Loss of Consortium
If the accident has affected the victim’s relationship with their spouse or family, compensation can be awarded for loss of companionship, affection, and support. This is typically claimed by the spouse or family members of the injured party.
Emotional Distress
Victims of trucking accidents often experience significant psychological trauma, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Compensation for emotional distress aims to address the psychological impact.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are not awarded in every case and are designed to punish the defendant for particularly reckless or egregious behavior. In the context of a trucking accident, punitive damages might be awarded if the truck driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or if the trucking company had a history of violating safety regulations. The goal of punitive damages is to deter similar conduct in the future and to send a strong message that such behavior will not be tolerated.
What Happens when a Truck Accident is Fatal?
In cases where a trucking accident results in a fatality, the victim’s family may pursue a wrongful death claim. This can include compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.
Speak to a Lawyer Today
Given the complexity of trucking accident cases and the variety of potential damages, it is crucial for victims to consult an experienced Fresno truck accident attorney. They can help navigate the legal process, gather evidence, and advocate for the maximum compensation possible.
